Best Restaurants in Pisa – Where to Eat in Tuscany’s Iconic City

Pisa may be world-famous for the Leaning Tower, but beyond this iconic monument lies a thriving food scene that tells a story of Tuscan tradition and creativity. Here, centuries-old recipes coexist with innovative chefs who reinterpret the classics for a modern audience. From trattorias serving ribollita and pappa al pomodoro to refined dining rooms presenting contemporary takes on seafood, Pisa’s cuisine is as varied as its history.

For travelers planning a visit, the question of where to eat in Pisa is just as important as which sights to see. The city offers options for every appetite: rustic osterias, riverside seafood restaurants, farm-to-table hideaways, and elegant bistros in historic squares. The best restaurants in Pisa combine authenticity with warmth, ensuring every guest feels connected to Tuscany’s heritage. This guide introduces 22 of the best restaurants in Pisa, carefully curated to help you explore the city one delicious meal at a time, while also answering the timeless question of where to eat in Pisa.

1. Osteria dei Cavalieri

• Cuisine: Traditional Tuscan

• Location: Via San Frediano

• Atmosphere: Cozy, rustic

• Don’t miss out: Ribollita soup

• Price Range: €€

• TripAdvisor Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5)

Osteria dei Cavalieri is a landmark of Tuscan dining in Pisa, celebrated for its authentic recipes and warm hospitality. The restaurant is set in a rustic space with stone walls, wooden beams, and tables dressed simply yet invitingly, reflecting the city’s medieval charm. The ribollita here is legendary — a rich bread-and-vegetable soup that captures the heart of Tuscan cucina povera. Other favorites include bistecca alla Fiorentina, prepared to perfection, and handmade pappardelle with wild game sauces. The wine list is thoughtful, focusing on local Chianti and Brunello selections that pair beautifully with the menu. Service is personal and attentive, often with staff sharing stories about the dishes or recommending seasonal specialties. It is a true destination for anyone debating where to eat in Pisa to experience Tuscan cuisine in its purest form. With its combination of tradition, authenticity, and atmosphere, Osteria dei Cavalieri unquestionably belongs among the best restaurants in Pisa.

Best Restaurants in Pisa for Traditional Cuisine

2. Ristorante alle Bandierine

• Cuisine: Tuscan, Pasta-focused

• Location: Via Mercanti

• Atmosphere: Lively, casual

• Don’t miss out: Pici with wild boar ragù

• Price Range: €€

• TripAdvisor Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)

Ristorante alle Bandierine is a trattoria full of life, where colorful walls, closely set tables, and the chatter of locals create a bustling environment. Famous for its pasta, the highlight here is pici with wild boar ragù — a hearty dish that embodies Tuscany’s rustic soul. Portions are generous, and the flavors are robust, reflecting traditional recipes that have stood the test of time. Beyond pasta, guests can enjoy ribollita, charcuterie boards with pecorino cheese, and seasonal truffle dishes. The wine list is straightforward but well-matched, offering Chianti and Montepulciano that elevate the experience. Service is brisk but friendly, ensuring fast turnover in this busy establishment. For budget-conscious travelers looking for where to eat in Pisa without compromising quality, alle Bandierine is one of the best restaurants in Pisa, capturing the city’s vibrancy in both food and atmosphere.

3. La Pergoletta

• Cuisine: Italian Gourmet

• Location: Via delle Belle Torri

• Atmosphere: Elegant, romantic

• Don’t miss out: Seafood risotto

• Price Range: €€€

• TripAdvisor Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5)

La Pergoletta is an elegant dining destination, blending Tuscan hospitality with gourmet creativity. Located in a historic building, the restaurant combines rustic charm with refined touches, making it particularly appealing for couples and special evenings. Its seafood risotto, prepared with saffron and fresh shellfish, is a favorite, while grilled fish and delicate pastas highlight Mediterranean flavors. The menu changes with the seasons, ensuring freshness and variety. Guests appreciate the attentive service, where staff carefully recommend wine pairings from an extensive list featuring both local and national labels. Candlelit tables and soft background music add to the ambiance, creating a romantic setting. For travelers wondering where to eat in Pisa for a fine dining experience that balances elegance and authenticity, La Pergoletta is one of the best restaurants in Pisa, offering meals that linger in memory.

4. Ristorante Galileo

• Cuisine: Traditional, Tuscan

• Location: Via Carlo Cattaneo

• Atmosphere: Friendly, local

• Don’t miss out: Bistecca alla Fiorentina

• Price Range: €€

• TripAdvisor Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.4/5)

Ristorante Galileo pays tribute to Pisa’s most famous figure while serving food that embodies the essence of Tuscany. The atmosphere is warm and unpretentious, with décor that reflects the region’s rustic roots. The bistecca alla Fiorentina is a standout — thick, juicy, and grilled to perfection — but ribollita, pappa al pomodoro, and homemade pastas also shine. Diners enjoy the relaxed, welcoming environment where locals mingle with visitors. Prices are fair, and portions are generous, making it a reliable choice for both everyday dining and special occasions. For anyone considering where to eat in Pisa to enjoy a balance of affordability and quality, Galileo is one of the best restaurants in Pisa, trusted by locals for decades.

Best Restaurants in Pisa for Pasta & Seafood

5. Osteria La Mescita

• Cuisine: Seafood, Tuscan

• Location: Via Cavalca

• Atmosphere: Warm, informal

• Don’t miss out: Cacciucco (Tuscan fish stew)

• Price Range: €€€

• TripAdvisor Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)

Osteria La Mescita captures Pisa’s connection to the sea, specializing in seafood dishes that showcase freshness and bold flavors. The star here is cacciucco, a Tuscan fish stew brimming with a variety of seafood and enriched with a tomato base. The interior is rustic and inviting, decorated with wine bottles and nautical accents, making guests feel both cozy and connected to tradition. Other menu highlights include spaghetti alle vongole and mixed fried fish platters, all cooked with an emphasis on simplicity and authenticity. Service is personable, and staff are eager to recommend pairings from the carefully curated wine list. For visitors curious about where to eat in Pisa to experience the seafood heritage of Tuscany, La Mescita is one of the best restaurants in Pisa, offering an unforgettable taste of the sea.

6. Il Ristoro della Bottega del Parco

• Cuisine: Farm-to-table Tuscan

• Location: Parco di San Rossore

• Atmosphere: Natural, rustic

• Don’t miss out: Seasonal tasting menu

• Price Range: €€€

• TripAdvisor Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.7/5)

Situated in the serene San Rossore park, Il Ristoro della Bottega del Parco is a restaurant that embraces farm-to-table dining. The setting itself is unique, surrounded by greenery and wildlife, creating a tranquil escape from the city. The menu changes with the seasons, showcasing ingredients sourced directly from local farms — from fresh vegetables to artisanal cheeses and locally raised meats. Dishes like slow-cooked pork with rosemary or handmade ravioli with ricotta and spinach highlight simplicity and quality. Guests often praise the authenticity of the experience, which feels like a celebration of the land itself. For diners asking where to eat in Pisa for a sustainable, natural dining experience, Il Ristoro is one of the best restaurants in Pisa, offering meals deeply tied to the rhythm of nature.

7. La Tana

• Cuisine: Tuscan, Rustic

• Location: Via San Martino

• Atmosphere: Intimate, cozy

• Don’t miss out: Wild boar stew

• Price Range: €€

• TripAdvisor Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)

La Tana is a charming hideaway that feels like stepping into a centuries-old Tuscan home. Its stone walls, low lighting, and wooden furniture create an atmosphere that is both rustic and romantic. The kitchen focuses on bold Tuscan flavors, with wild boar stew, handmade pappardelle, and roasted meats among the highlights. Seasonal vegetables and locally sourced olive oil add depth to each dish. The wine list leans heavily on Tuscan reds, perfect companions for hearty stews and grilled meats. Service is warm and attentive, often with staff recommending local specialties to first-time visitors. For those searching where to eat in Pisa to enjoy a rustic, authentic, and deeply traditional experience, La Tana secures its place among the best restaurants in Pisa.

8. Osteria di Culegna

• Cuisine: Traditional, Tuscan

• Location: Via Mercanti

• Atmosphere: Vibrant, casual

• Don’t miss out: Tagliatelle with truffle

• Price Range: €€

• TripAdvisor Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5)

Osteria di Culegna is a lively trattoria where the walls are filled with colorful artwork, and the tables are alive with laughter and conversation. The atmosphere is casual, often buzzing with students and groups of friends, making it one of Pisa’s most social eateries. The kitchen specializes in pasta, with tagliatelle topped with seasonal truffle among the most popular options. Meat dishes like grilled pork and rabbit stew are also crowd-pleasers, always cooked with a rustic touch. The service is efficient but friendly, keeping up with the fast-paced energy of the dining room. For anyone deciding where to eat in Pisa to enjoy affordable yet delicious Tuscan classics, Culegna is easily one of the best restaurants in Pisa.

9. Ristorante La Scaletta

• Cuisine: Seafood & Tuscan

• Location: Lungarno Mediceo

• Atmosphere: Elegant, riverside

• Don’t miss out: Grilled calamari

• Price Range: €€€

• TripAdvisor Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.4/5)

La Scaletta offers the rare combination of fine Tuscan dining with panoramic views of the Arno River. Its riverside setting makes it an excellent choice for a memorable evening, whether for couples or small gatherings. The menu focuses on seafood, with grilled calamari, spaghetti with clams, and seafood risotto among the most praised dishes. The interior blends elegance with warmth, featuring soft lighting and carefully set tables. Guests appreciate the attentive staff, who often suggest wine pairings that elevate the seafood experience. For travelers wondering where to eat in Pisa with a scenic view and refined dishes, La Scaletta is among the best restaurants in Pisa, delivering both flavor and atmosphere.

Best Restaurants in Pisa for Modern Dining

10. Osteria L’Artilafo

• Cuisine: Contemporary Tuscan

• Location: Via San Martino

• Atmosphere: Chic, intimate

• Don’t miss out: Seasonal tasting menu

• Price Range: €€€

• TripAdvisor Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.7/5)

Osteria L’Artilafo blends Tuscan tradition with modern design, creating a restaurant that feels both timeless and contemporary. The décor is minimalist and elegant, allowing the food to stand out. The menu changes seasonally, often featuring dishes like duck breast with figs, fresh pasta with truffle, or seafood prepared with creative twists. The tasting menu is particularly popular, offering a curated journey through the chef’s seasonal creations. Service is refined yet friendly, with knowledgeable staff eager to explain the ingredients and preparation techniques. The wine list is equally thoughtful, with an emphasis on organic and biodynamic Tuscan wines. For diners considering where to eat in Pisa to enjoy modern innovation rooted in tradition, L’Artilafo is a top candidate among the best restaurants in Pisa.

11. Ristorante da Bruno

• Cuisine: Traditional Tuscan

• Location: Via Luigi Bianchi

• Atmosphere: Family-friendly, rustic

• Don’t miss out: Spaghetti alle vongole

• Price Range: €€

• TripAdvisor Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)

Ristorante da Bruno has long been a favorite among locals, offering a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere with hearty Tuscan food. The interior is rustic, decorated with vintage photos and local memorabilia that tell a story of community and tradition. The menu is broad, with spaghetti alle vongole, mixed fried seafood, and bistecca alla Fiorentina among the highlights. Diners particularly praise the consistency of the cooking and the generous portions. Staff treat guests like family, ensuring a comfortable and relaxed experience. For travelers asking where to eat in Pisa with a genuine family-run feel, da Bruno is one of the best restaurants in Pisa, offering both authenticity and warmth.

12. Il Bistrot

• Cuisine: Gourmet Italian

• Location: Piazza Cairoli

• Atmosphere: Refined, modern

• Don’t miss out: Degustation menu

• Price Range: €€€

• TripAdvisor Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5)

Il Bistrot is Pisa’s answer to contemporary fine dining, where innovation meets Italian tradition. The restaurant is stylishly decorated, with sleek furnishings and a cosmopolitan feel that sets it apart. The chef’s degustation menu is the highlight, taking diners on a journey through bold and creative dishes that showcase both Tuscan and international influences. Attention to detail is evident in every course, from presentation to flavor balance. Guests describe the service as professional yet warm, enhancing the sense of luxury. For couples debating where to eat in Pisa for a sophisticated and inventive experience, Il Bistrot is unquestionably one of the best restaurants in Pisa.

Best Restaurants in Pisa for Seafood

13. Ristorante La Buca

• Cuisine: Seafood

• Location: Via Aureliana

• Atmosphere: Classic, local

• Don’t miss out: Spaghetti alle cozze

• Price Range: €€€

• TripAdvisor Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.4/5)

La Buca specializes in seafood that highlights the freshness of the Mediterranean. The décor is modest but traditional, reflecting a no-nonsense approach where the food does the talking. The spaghetti alle cozze is a favorite, brimming with flavor and served in generous portions. Other highlights include grilled fish, seafood risotto, and shellfish prepared simply yet masterfully. Service is attentive but not overbearing, allowing guests to enjoy their meal at leisure. For visitors considering where to eat in Pisa to taste high-quality seafood without pretense, La Buca is one of the best restaurants in Pisa, trusted by locals for years.

14. Hostaria Le Repubbliche Marinare

• Cuisine: Seafood, Tuscan

• Location: Via delle Belle Torri

• Atmosphere: Warm, nautical-themed

• Don’t miss out: Mixed seafood grill

• Price Range: €€€

• TripAdvisor Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5)

This hostaria embraces Pisa’s maritime history, with décor inspired by ships, sails, and seafaring life. The menu is a seafood lover’s dream, featuring grilled fish, oysters, spaghetti alle vongole, and the ever-popular mixed seafood grill. The atmosphere is lively but welcoming, perfect for small groups or families. Guests appreciate the authenticity of the cooking and the freshness of the ingredients, often sourced directly from nearby ports. For those wondering where to eat in Pisa for seafood in a thematic and atmospheric setting, Le Repubbliche Marinare is one of the best restaurants in Pisa.

15. Osteria Vecchia Pisa

• Cuisine: Traditional Tuscan

• Location: Via San Frediano

• Atmosphere: Rustic, charming

• Don’t miss out: Tagliata di manzo

• Price Range: €€

• TripAdvisor Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)

Osteria Vecchia Pisa exudes rustic charm, with brick walls, wooden tables, and décor that recalls the simplicity of old Tuscan kitchens. The tagliata di manzo is the signature dish, prepared with premium cuts and drizzled with local olive oil. The menu also includes ribollita, fresh pasta, and hearty grilled meats, all crafted with a dedication to tradition. The service is warm, and the staff go out of their way to make guests feel at home. For anyone asking where to eat in Pisa to enjoy a hearty Tuscan meal in an atmospheric setting, Vecchia Pisa is among the best restaurants in Pisa.

16. Osteria del Porton Rosso

• Cuisine: Tuscan, Mediterranean

• Location: Via del Porton Rosso

• Atmosphere: Cozy, intimate

• Don’t miss out: Spaghetti with seafood

• Price Range: €€

• TripAdvisor Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.4/5)

Porton Rosso is hidden in a narrow alley, giving it an intimate charm that makes guests feel as if they’ve stumbled upon a secret. The menu combines Tuscan and Mediterranean flavors, with spaghetti with seafood as its most praised dish. The dining room is cozy, often filled with locals, creating a warm and authentic vibe. Wine options are extensive, with bottles chosen to complement the menu’s seafood and meat dishes. For those deciding where to eat in Pisa to enjoy intimacy, authenticity, and flavor, Osteria del Porton Rosso is firmly among the best restaurants in Pisa.

17. Ristorante La Clessidra

• Cuisine: Tuscan, Gourmet

• Location: Via San Martino

• Atmosphere: Romantic, refined

• Don’t miss out: Duck breast with orange glaze

• Price Range: €€€

• TripAdvisor Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5)

La Clessidra is a romantic gem that combines gourmet creativity with Tuscan authenticity. The dining room is intimate, with refined décor, candlelit tables, and a soft ambiance perfect for couples. The kitchen’s signature dish is duck breast with orange glaze, balancing richness with citrus brightness, while handmade pasta and seasonal truffle creations add depth to the menu. Guests praise the chef’s attention to detail and the sommelier’s thoughtful wine pairings, which highlight both Tuscan reds and elegant whites. Service is polished but personal, ensuring each guest feels special. For couples asking where to eat in Pisa to celebrate a memorable evening, La Clessidra is one of the best restaurants in Pisa, blending romance, refinement, and flavor.

18. Ristorante alle Vettovaglie

• Cuisine: Contemporary Tuscan

• Location: Piazza delle Vettovaglie

• Atmosphere: Trendy, urban

• Don’t miss out: Seasonal tasting plates

• Price Range: €€

• TripAdvisor Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)

Located in Pisa’s historic market square, alle Vettovaglie is a modern restaurant that thrives on freshness and creativity. Its concept revolves around seasonal tasting plates, where guests can sample several small dishes inspired by Tuscan tradition but presented with flair. The square itself adds vibrancy, as diners enjoy their meals surrounded by the buzz of local life. The décor is trendy, and the crowd youthful, making it popular with locals as much as visitors. Service is friendly and energetic, perfectly suited to the lively setting. For travelers deciding where to eat in Pisa to experience modern Tuscan dining in a historic square, alle Vettovaglie is among the best restaurants in Pisa.

19. Ristorante La Scalaccia

• Cuisine: Seafood, Italian

• Location: Via Garibaldi

• Atmosphere: Traditional, family-run

• Don’t miss out: Spaghetti with clams

• Price Range: €€

• TripAdvisor Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.4/5)

La Scalaccia is a small, family-run trattoria with a long-standing reputation for quality seafood. The interior is simple, focusing attention on the dishes themselves. Spaghetti with clams, grilled fish, and fried calamari are staples, cooked with the kind of skill that comes from generations of practice. Portions are generous, and freshness is always guaranteed, with ingredients sourced daily from the coast. Guests describe the experience as authentic and comforting, where the family’s pride in their work shines through. For anyone wondering where to eat in Pisa to enjoy genuine seafood in a no-frills atmosphere, La Scalaccia is one of the best restaurants in Pisa.

Best Restaurants in Pisa for Variety

20. Osteria Tre Pini

• Cuisine: Tuscan, Local

• Location: Via Aurelia

• Atmosphere: Rustic, family-friendly

• Don’t miss out: Pappardelle with hare sauce

• Price Range: €€

• TripAdvisor Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)

Osteria Tre Pini sits just outside Pisa’s historic center, providing a rustic retreat for locals and visitors alike. Its décor features wooden tables, stone floors, and a cozy fireplace in winter, giving the space an old-world charm. The kitchen specializes in robust Tuscan fare, with pappardelle with hare sauce as the highlight, along with stews, roasts, and grilled meats. The atmosphere is relaxed, and families often fill the dining room, enjoying the welcoming hospitality. For travelers asking where to eat in Pisa to experience hearty countryside cooking, Tre Pini earns its place among the best restaurants in Pisa, offering flavors that feel like home.

21. Ristorante Galileo Osteria Moderna

• Cuisine: Modern Tuscan

• Location: Via Curtatone

• Atmosphere: Sleek, modern

• Don’t miss out: Beef tartare with truffle

• Price Range: €€€

• TripAdvisor Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5)

This contemporary osteria offers a stylish reinterpretation of Tuscan classics, attracting a cosmopolitan crowd. The décor is sleek, with clean lines and modern furnishings that reflect its innovative spirit. The standout dish is beef tartare with truffle, but seafood starters and creative pasta dishes are also highly praised. The wine list is sophisticated, featuring both regional favorites and international selections. Service is attentive yet relaxed, striking the right balance for a fine dining experience. For those debating where to eat in Pisa to experience innovation rooted in tradition, Galileo Moderna is firmly among the best restaurants in Pisa.

22. Trattoria Sant’Omobono

• Cuisine: Tuscan, Historic

• Location: Piazza Sant’Omobono

• Atmosphere: Old-world, traditional

• Don’t miss out: Minestrone alla Pisana

• Price Range: €€

• TripAdvisor Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.4/5)

Trattoria Sant’Omobono is a historic landmark in Pisa’s dining scene, located in a charming piazza that shares its name. The atmosphere is steeped in history, with stone walls, wooden beams, and a sense of timelessness. The menu features minestrone alla Pisana, a vegetable soup unique to the region, along with ribollita, grilled meats, and traditional pasta dishes. Guests love the authenticity and warmth of the service, which reflects generations of family ownership. For anyone wondering where to eat in Pisa to experience the city’s history through its food, Sant’Omobono is one of the best restaurants in Pisa, offering tradition with every bite.

Local Specialties in Pisa

1. Ribollita – A bread and vegetable soup that symbolizes Tuscan comfort food.

2. Cacciucco – A rich fish stew with multiple varieties of seafood, reflecting Pisa’s maritime heritage.

3. Bistecca alla Fiorentina – The iconic Florentine-style T-bone steak, cooked rare over charcoal.

4. Pici with Ragù – Hand-rolled thick pasta often served with wild boar sauce.

5. Cecina – A savory chickpea flour flatbread, widely enjoyed as Pisa’s street food.

6. Minestrone alla Pisana – A vegetable soup unique to Pisa’s local traditions.

A Culinary Journey Through the Best Restaurants in Pisa

Exploring the best restaurants in Pisa reveals a city where food is as central to its identity as the Leaning Tower. Families will love the hearty meals at La Tana, Tre Pini, and Vecchia Pisa, while couples can savor romantic dinners at La Clessidra or La Pergoletta. Seafood enthusiasts can indulge at La Mescita, La Scaletta, or Le Repubbliche Marinare, while modern dining fans will find inspiration at L’Artilafo, Galileo Moderna, and alle Vettovaglie.

For anyone wondering where to eat in Pisa, the answer is everywhere: from trattorias tucked into narrow streets to contemporary bistros in bustling piazzas. Each restaurant offers a unique chapter of Pisa’s story, combining centuries of tradition with modern creativity. Together, they prove why Pisa is not only a city of monuments but also a destination for unforgettable culinary journeys.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Restaurants in Pisa