Bistecca alla fiorentina is Florence’s famous steak: a very thick T-bone, grilled over wood or charcoal, seasoned simply and served rare. It is sold by weight, usually for two or more people, and in 2026 typically costs about €45–€75 per kilo in traditional trattorias. A steak for two is often 1–1.5 kg. Classic places to try it include Trattoria Mario, Buca Lapi and Trattoria Sostanza.
| Quick facts | Details |
|---|---|
| What it is | A T-bone or porterhouse cut about three fingers thick |
| Beef | Traditionally Tuscan breeds such as Chianina; many places use other good beef |
| How it is cooked | Grilled hard on the outside, al sangue (rare) inside |
| How it is priced | By weight, often per kilo or per 100 g (etto) |
| Typical price | About €45–€75 per kg (2026) |
What makes a real bistecca alla fiorentina
A proper Florentine steak is cut from the loin with the T-shaped bone in, including both the sirloin and the fillet. It is very thick, usually 4–5 cm, and weighs well over a kilo. It is grilled close to a hot fire for a few minutes on each side, then stood on its bone to heat through, and seasoned with salt, pepper and sometimes olive oil. Nothing else.
Florentine restaurants cook it rare. Many will refuse or discourage well-done, because a steak this thick dries out if cooked through. If you do not like rare meat, this may not be the dish for you.
Where to eat bistecca in Florence
- Trattoria Mario (San Lorenzo) – a busy, family-run lunchtime trattoria near the Mercato Centrale with shared tables; famous for its bistecca.
- Buca Lapi – a historic cellar restaurant near Palazzo Antinori, known for its steak.
- Trattoria Sostanza – an old-fashioned trattoria with a long history; also famous for its butter chicken.
Many traditional trattorias take cash only or have limited hours. Check before you go and book where possible.
How to order
| Say | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Una bistecca per due, per favore | A steak for two, please |
| Quanto pesa? | How much does it weigh? |
| Al sangue | Rare (the standard) |
| Fagioli all’olio | White beans with olive oil, the classic side |
| Un fiasco di Chianti | A bottle of Chianti |
Ask the weight: because bistecca is priced by weight, ask to see the steak or confirm its weight before it is cooked, so the bill is not a surprise.
Frequently asked questions
How much does bistecca alla fiorentina cost?
Usually €45–€75 per kilo in 2026. A steak for two weighing 1.2 kg therefore costs roughly €55–€90.
Can I order bistecca well done?
Florentine restaurants serve it rare and some will not cook it further. Medium-rare near the bone is as far as most will go.
Is bistecca alla fiorentina always Chianina beef?
Chianina is the traditional breed, but it is expensive and many restaurants use other beef. Menus often say which breed is used.
More in Florence and Tuscany: gelato in Florence and agriturismo farm stays. Browse all Italy food guides.
Sources
- Feel Florence – official Florence tourism site.
- Bistecca alla fiorentina – cut and cooking method.
