In Florence, next to the Duomo, Regina Bistecca is the temple of the best Florentine gastronomic tradition. A hymn to a city of art and artists where beauty and taste are at home.

Just imagine having dinner with Brunelleschi, Michelangelo, Giotto and, again, Ghiberti, Talenti and Pico della Mirandola. What if the various members of the Medici family had also joined them? It would mean centuries of history of Florence put all together under the stupendous antique vault that designs the ceiling of this amazing restaurant.

Beyond the imagination, all these illustrious characters could have really attended the place, which was originally an antiquarian bookshop and art gallery. A true cultural salon frequented by all the most fashionable intellectuals and artists of those times who here gathered to share ideas and topics.

Around a table everyone can relax. You can dedicate yourself to the people you love, food is shared and this ritual almost becomes a celebration.

(Matteo Perduca, owner)

At number 14 of via Ricasoli, one of the best-known and oldest alleys in the center of Florence, Regina Bistecca opened its doors in September 2018, after a conservative renovation that kept intact the precious historical structure of what was once the internal courtyard of a noble palace. Thus was born this beautiful restaurant whose main room is located right under the large arched vault, merging into the coffered ceilings and the ancient stone walls. Upstairs we find the privé overlooking a spectacular cellar suspended over the entrance and the counter of the American Bar.

Thanks to the vision of Matteo Perduca, already the soul of structures with a great atmosphere such as AdAstra Florence and Soprarno Suites, the Genius loci that lives within these walls has found a new home, among the original paintings of the antiquarian bookshop that today are mixed with contemporary artworks. All the furnishings have been designed ad hoc in order to fit in with the authentic personality of the rooms, whilst the Vienna straw chairs and the welcoming wooden tables are somewhat reminiscent of the chic atmosphere of Parisian brasseries.

Regina Bistecca turns an icon of Tuscan gastronomy, the “steak” (bistecca in Italian), into a true work of art. From the wide selection of European meat cuts to the cooking, everything is impeccable. The star is undoubtedly the Chianina IGP which, after the ritual of slicing it performed live in front of guests, is served on a special bronze tray handmade by the artisans of Il Bronzetto.

Introduced by a choice of Tuscan appetizers, like meat cold cut and cheese selections, and accompanied by typical side dishes such as zolfini beans and roasted potatoes, the “steak”, whether it’s a T-bone steak or a fillet, here is the protagonist of the scene. Amazing are also the homemade desserts, including a tiramisu, not to be missed.

The selection of wines naturally goes hand in hand with the rest, offering over 150 of the best wineries in the area, from Chianti to Montepulciano, from Super Tuscans to the reds Montalcino and Scansano, just to name a few.

Before or after dinner, it is always possible, indeed recommended, to linger at the beautiful counter of the American bar to tray an exceptional version of the famous cocktail which, according to legend, seems to have been invented right here in Florence: the Negroni. While sipping your drink, your eye might fall on a curious display case where it is kept, in perfect order, a collection of meat knives, each with a name engraved on the blade. These are the members of the “Club of the Steak Lovers“, i.e. the regulars of the restaurant who, after 20 steaks ordered, are given a personalized knife. Meat lovers have definitely found their paradise.

The Secret

Among the many works of art decorating the walls, there are also some family portraits, which belonged to Matteo and his brother Marco, and neon works designed by Betty Soldi, a talented calligrapher, who also created the decorations of AdAstra Florence.

Useful info

Regina Bistecca
via Ricasoli 14r
50123 Firenze
Tel. +39 055 2693772

Starters: 9 — 15 euro
First courses: 15 — 24 euro
Second courses: 15 — 39 euro (Rossini fillet)
Steaks from 59 euro/kg to 89 euro/kg

Tasting menu: starting from 59 euro (for 2 people)