In the heart of Tuscany, Lucca is a charming city with a rich culinary scene. From its famous city walls to its cobbled streets, Lucca is a paradise for food lovers. This guide will lead you to the top restaurants in Lucca, sorted by different dining preferences, so you can experience the city’s best offerings.
Let’s chat about the Best Restaurants in Lucca, Italy, Not to Miss.
What Food is Lucca Known For?
Lucca’s cuisine reflects Tuscany’s rich agricultural heritage, which is known for its traditional dishes featuring locally sourced ingredients. Some foods to try are:
- Tordelli Lucchesi: A type of ravioli stuffed with meat, served with a hearty meat sauce.
- Zuppa alla Frantoiana: A rustic soup made with bread, vegetables, and olive oil.
- Buccellato: A sweet bread flavored with anise, often enjoyed with a glass of Vin Santo.
- Olive Oil: The region around Lucca is famous for producing some of the finest extra virgin olive oil in Italy.
- Wild Game: Dishes featuring wild boar and other game meats are also popular.
Do you need Restaurant Reservations in Lucca?
Making restaurant reservations in Lucca is usually a good idea, especially for popular or high-end establishments. Reservations are often required during peak tourist seasons, such as summer and holidays, as well as on weekends to ensure you get a table at the restaurant of your choice.
I love using the app The Fork for Italy restaurant reservations. Also, check out How to Visit Florence on Your Own.
Best Restaurants in Lucca For Meat Lovers
Lucca has several restaurants that satisfy your cravings if you enjoy hearty, meat-based dishes. Here are some top recommendations:
Buca di Sant’Antonio has been a staple of traditional Tuscan cuisine in Lucca since 1782. The restaurant’s rich history is reflected in its classic dishes, like the must-try Tordelli Lucchesi. Its warm and inviting atmosphere makes it suitable for both special occasions and casual dining. The restaurant is renowned for its meat dishes, especially those made with local game, known for their depth of flavor.
- Location: Inside the city walls
- Must-Try Dish: Tordelli Lucchesi
In the heart of Lucca, Ristorante Giglio is renowned for its high-quality meat dishes. The menu features perfectly grilled steaks, succulent roasts, and a variety of options for meat lovers. The cozy atmosphere and the restaurant’s dedication to using fresh, local ingredients guarantee an unforgettable dining experience.
- Location: Inside the city walls
- Must-Try Dish: Bistecca alla Fiorentina
3. Osteria Da Rosanna: Osteria Da Rosanna is a hidden gem that offers a rustic dining experience. The menu focuses on traditional Tuscan fare, emphasizing meat dishes. The grilled meats and rich meat sauces are the highlights here, all served in a warm, inviting setting that feels like home.
- Location: Outside the city walls
- Must-Try Dish: Grilled Wild Boar
For those seeking authentic Tuscan cuisine in a laid-back environment, Trattoria Da Leo is the place to go. Known for its generous portions and hearty meat dishes, this trattoria is popular among locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re in the mood for a robust stew or a juicy steak, Da Leo delivers on all fronts.
- Location: Inside the city walls
- Must-Try Dish: Tuscan Beef Stew
Sotto Sotto Ristorantino is a recent addition to the dining scene in Lucca. It has gained a quick reputation for its focus on local specialties, especially meat dishes. The menu pays homage to Tuscan ingredients, and the attention to detail in the preparation is evident in every bite. The laid-back atmosphere makes it a perfect place for a relaxed dinner.
- Location: Outside the city walls
- Must-Try Dish: Roasted Lamb with Herbs
Photo by Restaurant’s Instagram:
Lucca Restaurants for Seafood Enthusiasts
While Lucca is landlocked, its proximity to the coast means fresh seafood is always on the menu. Here are the top seafood restaurants in Lucca:
Ristorante Celide, located on Viale Giuseppe Giusti, is a top choice for seafood lovers. The elegant dining room sets the stage for a memorable meal, where the seafood dishes are spotlighted. The menu features a variety of options, including fresh fish and delicate pasta dishes, making it a true celebration of the sea.
- Location: Outside the city walls
- Must-Try Dish: Seafood Risotto
Osteria Da Rosolo is a popular establishment in Lucca, renowned for its welcoming ambiance and outstanding cuisine. Although the menu features traditional Tuscan dishes, the seafood offerings are especially remarkable. Whether you prefer grilled fish or seafood pasta, Da Rosolo consistently delivers with style.
- Location: Inside the city walls
- Must-Try Dish: Spaghetti alle Vongole
3. Da Pasquale:
Da Pasquale offers a delightful combination of Tuscan and seafood cuisine. The restaurant’s dedication to quality is apparent in every dish, making it a popular choice among locals. Although the seafood options are fewer in number, they are prepared with the same attention to detail as their Tuscan counterparts.
- Location: Inside the city walls
- Must-Try Dish: Grilled Octopus
4. Lucca In Tavola
Lucca In Tavola is a charming restaurant that offers a variety of Tuscan dishes, including some outstanding seafood options. The focus on fresh, local ingredients ensures that every dish is bursting with flavor. The gluten-free options are a bonus for those with dietary restrictions.
- Location: Inside the city walls
- Must-Try Dish: Mixed Seafood Platter
Affordable and Mid-Budget Dining In Lucca, Italy
This well-established favorite in Lucca is renowned for its authentic Tuscan cuisine at affordable prices. The portions are generous, and the atmosphere is welcoming, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed meal with friends or family.
- Location: Inside the city walls
- Must-Try Dish: Pappardelle al Cinghiale
This family-friendly trattoria offers a warm atmosphere and a menu filled with traditional Italian dishes, including pasta and pizza. It’s popular among both locals and tourists, providing tasty food at affordable prices. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting plate of pasta or a classic pizza, Trattoria Da Nonna Clara delivers quality and value.
This family-friendly trattoria offers a warm atmosphere and a menu filled with traditional Italian dishes, including pasta and pizza. It’s popular among both locals and tourists, providing tasty food at affordable prices. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting plate of pasta or a classic pizza, Trattoria Da Nonna Clara delivers quality and value.
- Location: Outside the city walls
- Must-Try Dish: Classic Margherita Pizza
3. Vecchia Trattoria Buralli: Located off the main streets, Vecchia Trattoria Buralli is a hidden gem praised for its homemade Tuscan food. The menu offers great salads and hearty mains at reasonable prices, making it a must-visit for a satisfying and affordable meal. The relaxed atmosphere and traditional dishes make this trattoria a beloved spot among those in the know.
- Location: Inside the city walls
- Must-Try Dish: Tagliata di Manzo (Sliced Beef)
4. Il Mecenate:
Il Mecenate is a cozy trattoria that offers a great selection of traditional Tuscan dishes at affordable prices. The friendly service and relaxed atmosphere make it a popular choice among locals and tourists alike. Be sure to try their daily specials for the best value.
- Location: Inside the city walls
- Must-Try Dish: Ribollita
5. Pizzeria Lo Sghello: For a more laid-back dining experience, Pizzeria Lo Sghello is an excellent choice. This popular pizzeria offers various pizzas, all made with fresh, local ingredients. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly service make it a perfect spot for a quick, affordable meal.
- Location: Inside the city walls
- Must-Try Dish: Margherita Pizza
6. All’Olivo: All’Olivo offers a blend of traditional and modern Tuscan cuisine in a cozy, mid-budget setting. The menu features a variety of dishes, all prepared with care and attention to detail. The friendly staff and warm atmosphere make it a great choice for a mid-range dining experience.
- Location: Inside the city walls
- Must-Try Dish: Tuscan Antipasti Platter
7. Da Ciacco
Da Ciacco is a small, authentic Tuscan trattoria located in the heart of Lucca. Known for its homestyle approach to traditional Tuscan dishes, this cozy spot is perfect for those seeking an authentic and affordable dining experience. The menu features a variety of local specialties made with seasonal ingredients, ensuring a delicious and satisfying meal. The intimate atmosphere and friendly service make Da Ciacco a beloved choice among both locals and visitors.
- Location: Inside the city walls
- Must-Try Dish: Tuscan Bean Soup
8. Da Umberto
Da Umberto is a traditional Tuscan trattoria in Lucca, known for its authentic regional dishes and warm, inviting atmosphere. The menu features a variety of Tuscan classics, all prepared with fresh, local ingredients. The friendly service and home-style cooking make Da Umberto a favorite among both locals and visitors. It’s a great option for those seeking delicious, affordable Tuscan food in a cozy setting.
- Location: Inside the city walls
- Must-Try Dish: Pappardelle al Cinghiale
9. Angolo Tondo
Angolo Tondo is a popular restaurant in Lucca that offers a delightful mix of traditional Tuscan cuisine with a modern twist. Known for its use of high-quality, local ingredients, the menu features a variety of dishes that reflect the region’s culinary heritage while incorporating contemporary elements. The cozy yet contemporary ambiance makes it a great choice for those looking to enjoy a memorable meal without breaking the bank.
- Location: Inside the city walls
- Must-Try Dish: Modern interpretation of Pappardelle al Cinghiale
Romantic Lucca Restaurants
If you’re looking to set the mood for a special evening, Lucca has a variety of romantic dining spots that offer intimate settings, exquisite food, and a touch of magic. Here are some top picks:
1. Ristorante All’Olivo
This intimate restaurant is known for its warm atmosphere and delicious Tuscan dishes. The menu features a variety of local specialties, and the cozy setting makes it perfect for a romantic evening. With candlelit tables and attentive service, All’Olivo is a favorite for couples looking to enjoy a quiet, romantic dinner. Reservations are recommended due to its popularity. Check website.
- Location: Inside the city walls
- Must-Try Dish: Tagliatelle with Truffles
A historic restaurant with a charming interior, Buca di Sant’Antonio offers traditional Lucchese cuisine, including handmade pasta and local meats. The elegant decor and attentive service create a romantic dining experience, making it a favorite among couples. The restaurant’s long history adds a layer of timeless romance to your meal.
- Location: Inside the city walls
- Must-Try Dish: Wild Boar Stew
Set in a lovely garden, this restaurant offers a romantic outdoor dining experience. The menu features a mix of traditional and contemporary dishes, focusing on seasonal ingredients. The serene environment, coupled with the beautifully presented food, adds to the romantic vibe, making it a perfect spot for a summer evening.
- Location: Inside the city walls
- Must-Try Dish: Seasonal Vegetable Risotto
5. Surreale
Known for its artistic decor and innovative cuisine, Surreale provides a unique dining experience. The intimate setting and creative dishes make it a great choice for couples looking for something special. The eclectic atmosphere, paired with the restaurant’s inventive approach to traditional flavors, ensures an evening full of delightful surprises.
- Location: Inside the city walls
- Must-Try Dish: Creative Tasting Menu
Lucca Restaurants Inside the Walls vs. Outside the Walls
Lucca’s historic city center is encircled by well-preserved Renaissance walls, which not only add to the city’s charm but also define its culinary landscape. Dining inside the walls offers the opportunity to enjoy meals in centuries-old buildings, surrounded by history and culture. Restaurants within the walls tend to focus on traditional Tuscan cuisine, offering a cozy and intimate dining experience.
- Inside the Walls: Many of the city’s iconic restaurants are located within walking distance of Lucca’s most famous square, Piazza Napoleone, and near historic landmarks like Porta Elisa. This eastern gateway is a notable entry point into the city, leading to a variety of dining options that reflect the rich culinary traditions of Lucca. Whether you’re exploring the area around Piazza Napoleone or entering through Porta Elisa, you’ll find excellent dining choices like Buca di Sant’Antonio, Ristorante Giglio, and Trattoria Da Leo. These establishments are perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the rich history of Lucca while enjoying authentic Tuscan flavors.
Dining outside the walls, however, offers a different experience. The restaurants in this area often have more space, allowing for larger dining rooms and sometimes even outdoor seating with views of the Tuscan countryside. The culinary offerings can be just as impressive, with a mix of traditional and modern cuisine.
- Outside the Walls: Restaurants like Ristorante Celide and Ristorante Serendepico provide a more relaxed atmosphere, often with beautiful vistas that complement the dining experience. These spots are ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city center.
Best Lucca Restaurants for Vin Santo
Buca di Sant’Antonio is one of the best places in Lucca to enjoy a glass of Vin Santo. Given its deep roots in traditional Tuscan cuisine, this historic restaurant offers an excellent selection of local wines and serves Vin Santo with traditional cantucci, providing an authentic and memorable Tuscan dining experience. The elegant and historic ambiance of Buca di Sant’Antonio makes it an ideal setting to savor this classic dessert wine.
Overall, Lucca is an incredible place for authentic Italian food. If you visit one of these restaurants, let me know on Instagram. You can follow me here.
