Italy GF (Venice, Florence, and Rome)
When you think of Italy, you might imagine a land overflowing with pasta, pizza, and other gluten-filled delights. It’s understandable to worry about how celiac disease might limit your culinary experiences in such a carb-centric country. However, Italy is actually one of the safest and best places for gluten-free travelers, especially for young people like me! Thanks to the high tourist population and an impressive awareness of celiac disease, every restaurant I visited understood my dietary needs, ensuring no cross-contamination. Keep an eye out for the red AIC (Associazione Italiana Celiachia) certification – it means the restaurant is trained and approved to cater to celiac patrons. Here’s a journey through my gluten-free culinary adventures in Venice, Florence, and Rome!
Venice
Venice was like stepping into a movie – absolutely beautiful and charming. However, it was the least gluten-friendly of the cities I visited in Italy, based on the availability of entirely gluten-free restaurants. But don’t worry, there are still plenty of safe options!
Pizzeria Ae Oche Santa Lucia
For dinner, head to Pizzeria Ae Oche Santa Lucia. While the gluten-free pizza here was decent, it wasn’t the best I had in Italy. But don’t fret – more delicious gluten-free pizzas awaited me in Florence and Rome.
Grocery Stores
Throughout Venice (and Italy), you’ll find many grocery stores with entirely gluten-free sections. Brands like Schär offer a wide array of treats, bread, and packaged snacks. These stores were a lifesaver for stocking up on gluten-free essentials.
Amorino Gelato
For a sweet treat, stop by Amorino Gelato. Just make sure to ask them to wash the spoon to avoid cross-contamination. The gelato was creamy and delicious, perfect for a warm afternoon in Venice.
Florence
Florence was arguably the best city for gluten-free food I have ever visited. The array of options and the quality of the food were incredible!
Hostería il Desco (AIC Certified)
For your first night, have dinner at Hostería il Desco. This AIC-certified restaurant marks gluten-free items with a special colored menu, cup, and napkin. The gluten-free menu here is extensive, featuring:
Bruschetta
Truffle Pasta
Bolognese
Ravioli
Flourless Chocolate Cake
Tiramisu
The ambiance is fantastic, and the location is perfect for a post-dinner stroll through the city. This restaurant was a favorite for my family.
Celiachia Grocery Stores
Florence also boasts Celiachia grocery stores, which are entirely gluten-free. I was amazed to learn that the Italian government provides a stipend for celiac citizens to offset the cost of gluten-free groceries – how great is that?
Sgrano (AIC Certified)
For the best sandwiches you’ll ever have, head to Sgrano in central Florence. This entirely gluten-free shop offers every sandwich option imaginable. I loved my turkey, cheese, tomato, arugula, and bruschetta sandwich with warm, soft gluten-free bread. My celiac dad adored his pastrami, turkey, and ham sandwich with pesto. Sgrano has two locations: a sandwich shop for lunch and a different dinner restaurant where you can enjoy:
Pici Pasta
Ravioli
Truffle Pasta
Cheese Boards
Tiramisu
GROM Gelato (AIC Certified)
In both Florence and Rome, stop by GROM Gelato as often as you can. This entirely gluten-free gelato shop includes cones! The mix of stracciatella and raspberry chocolate chunk was heavenly.
Rome
Rome has an abundance of gluten-free options, though it is the most touristy city. Here’s a rundown of my gluten-free dining experiences in Rome.
Cimarra 4
For your first night, dine at Cimarra 4. With options for both gluten and gluten-free eaters, I enjoyed:
Fried Mozzarella Balls
GF Pizza
Cacio e Pepe Pasta
GF Calzone
The Nutella cheesecake and tiramisu were the perfect sweet endings to an amazing meal.
La Soffita
Near Vatican City, La Soffita offers both gluten-free and non-gluten-free options and is AIC certified. The gluten-free food comes with a cute little flag. I savored the:
Cacio e Pepe Pasta
Giant Calzone
Focaccia Bread
Il Nostro Gelato
For another gelato treat, visit Il Nostro Gelato, which is entirely gluten-free and delicious.
Pizza in Trevi (AIC Certified)
For dinner near the Trevi Fountain, Pizza in Trevi is an allergen-friendly restaurant with a huge menu. I enjoyed:
GF Lasagna
Pesto and Tomato Bruschetta
Pizza
Truffle Pasta
Next door, Gelato in Trevi (AIC certified) offers incredible GF gelato, including chocolate-dipped sprinkle cones and gluten-free waffles.
Il Ristorante Pantha Rei (AIC Certified)
In a charming alleyway, Il Ristorante Pantha Rei provides a cozy dining experience with gluten-free options marked with flags. I enjoyed:
Bruschetta
Ravioli
Seafood Pasta
Crème Brûlée
New Food GF Bakery
When exploring on foot, visit the New Food GF Bakery, where you’ll find gluten-free delights like:
Pigs in a Blanket
Spinach Sandwiches
Ravioli
Brownies
Cookies
Mini Pizzas
Mini Buns
Cupcakes
Donuts
Voglia de Pizza (AIC Certified)
For your last night in Rome, Voglia de Pizza offers an array of gluten-free dishes, including:
Huge GF Calzones
Cacio e Pepe
Bruschetta with Meats, Cheeses, and Veggies
Conclusion
Italy might be known for its gluten-heavy cuisine, but it’s actually a paradise for celiac travelers. With widespread awareness, AIC certifications, and amazing gluten-free options, Italy ensured I had a safe and delicious experience in every city. If you have celiac disease, don’t hesitate to travel to Italy – it might just be the best food journey you’ll ever have!
