5 Gluten Free Restaurants in Florence: A Coeliac’s Guide

Florence is a city that captures the imagination with its breathtaking art, beautiful architecture, historic landmarks, and—let’s be honest—the food. For coeliacs or gluten-free travelers like me, the thought of navigating the Italian dining scene can initially feel daunting with traditional dishes being pizza and pasta. But here’s the thing: Italy is one of the easiest countries to travel gluten-free. With a significant population of coeliacs, Italians have truly mastered the art of catering to our dietary needs without compromising on flavor or authenticity.

In Florence, I was amazed by how many restaurants offered gluten-free options that felt just as indulgent and satisfying as their traditional counterparts. From perfectly al dente pasta to crispy pizza crusts, I didn’t feel like I was missing out at all. What’s more is everywhere I ate had separate kitchens or pizza ovens for their gluten-free menu which kept cross contamination to a minimum. Eating gluten-free in Florence isn’t just manageable—it’s a a delicious experience that makes you fall in love with Italian cuisine all over again! Here are 5 gluten free restaurants in Florence that I loved.

For more information on gluten-free restaurants in Florence, download the Find Me Gluten Free App where you can easily search for safe restaurants near your location. The app is FREE to download but you can use code HELENAH for $5 off premium membership.

Where to Eat Gluten-Free in Florence

Whether you’re craving traditional Tuscan dishes or decadent gluten-free pizza, Florence has you covered. Here’s a complete guide to everything I ate gluten-free in Florence, from pizzas to pastas.

1. Mamma Eat

What I Ate: The most delicious pizza (dare I say, the best pizza I’ve ever eaten?)
Why It’s Amazing: Mamma Eat, located in the heart of Florence, is a certified coeliac-friendly haven offering a separate gluten-free kitchen to ensure no cross-contamination. Their pizza was the highlight of my trip along with the pistachio tiramisu. They have locations in Rome and Milan too and I can personally confirm they are one of the best gluten free restaurants in Florence.

2. Ciro & Sons

What I Ate: A fried calamari platter (yes, gluten-free!) and a delicious pizza.
Why It’s Amazing: This family-run restaurant not only serves incredible gluten-free options with two completely separate kitchens to ensure safety. Their calamari was perfectly crisp, and the pizza rivals anything you’d find in a traditional pizzeria. If the pizza at Mamma Eat was the best pizza I’ve eaten then this one would rank a very close second! It is worthy as one of the best gluten free restaurants in Florence.

3. Hosteria il Desco

What I Ate: Truffle and blue cheese pasta followed by tiramisu.
Why It’s Amazing: For a luxurious gluten-free pasta experience, Hosteria il Desco is a must-visit. The truffle and blue cheese pasta was rich, creamy, and indulgent—the perfect representation of Tuscan flavors. I had tiramisu for dessert which was deliciously creamy and one of the best I’ve ever had. As far as gluten free restaurants in Florence are concerned, Hosteria il Desco is in my top 5.

4. Mister Pizza

What I Ate: Pizza
Why It’s Amazing: Mister Pizza is a casual spot perfect for a quick bite, offering a dedicated gluten-free menu with lovely outdoor seating and views of the Duomo—especially enjoyable in the summer. However, I found their gluten-free pizza to be average and despite having a separate pizza oven, I suspect there may have been slight cross-contamination, as I experienced a minor reaction. Compared to the other gluten-free pizzas I had on this trip, it did fall short in texture and flavor though it was still tasty. Overall I have mixed feelings on this one but I am including for the great location of the Duomo and outside dining views!

5. Gluten-Free Breakfast in Florence

Where: The Golden Tower Hotel and Spa.
What I Ate: Gluten-free croissants (ordered in specially for me) and freshly made omelettes on the buffet.
Why It’s Amazing: Staying at the Golden Tower Hotel and Spa was a dream. Their dedication to accommodating gluten-free guests was evident when they arranged gluten-free croissants for breakfast. Starting the day with fresh, flaky croissants was the perfect way to begin my morning and they offered to make me anything I wanted from the buffet separately in the kitchen to avoid cross contamination.

Tips for Gluten-Free Dining in Florence

To make the most of your gluten-free food experience in Florence, here are a few tips:

Look for AIC-Certified Restaurants: The Italian Coeliac Association (AIC) certifies restaurants to ensure safe gluten-free dining. Keep an eye out for their logo or check their website for recommendations.
Use “Senza Glutine”: When in doubt, use this phrase to ask for gluten-free options. Italians are generally accommodating and well-informed about dietary restrictions.
Plan Ahead: Research restaurants near Florence’s key attractions, like the Duomo or Ponte Vecchio, to avoid last-minute stress.
Indulge in Gelato: Many gelato shops in Florence offer gluten-free options. Just make sure to ask about cone cross-contamination.
Download the Find Me Gluten Free App where you can easily search for safe restaurants near your location. The app is FREE to download but you can use code HELENAH for $5 off premium membership.

Best Place to Stay in Florence

Stay at a Hotel who can cater for you if needed: 24hr room service and gluten free options for breakfast will take the stress out of traveling. We stayed at The Golden Tower Hotel and Spa and loved how spoilt I was with gluten-free treats they ordered in especially for me.

Florence proved to be a paradise for gluten-free travelers, offering a variety of safe and delicious options without compromising on flavor or authenticity. Whether you’re a pizza enthusiast, a pasta lover, or just looking for a great gluten-free breakfast, this Tuscan city has it all.

If you’re planning a trip to Florence, be sure to add these spots to your gluten-free bucket list—and let me know which one was your favorite!

Looking for More Gluten-Free Travel Tips?

Check out my other guides for gluten-free dining in Italy and beyond. For more travel inspiration, follow along on Helenah Diaries.

HELENAH DIARIES

Diary of a PR Girl who travels and eats a lot.