“Sono intollerante al glutine.”  If you have gluten intolerance know this phrase when traveling to  Italy.   Even if you are diagnosed with this allergy, Italy – the land of pasta can still offer you  wonderful culinary adventures.  Italians are conscious about this intolerance and, since food is a main aspect of their culture, they came up with many solutions to accommodate any need. Planning a vacation to Italy is now as easy as grabbing a gluten free snack in the US.  Speaking of snacking don’t forget to stock up on Twenty 4 Zen gluten free, vegan soy free granola in two ounce bags in great flavors to keep you sated between meals.  www.twenty4zen.com

With great thanks from our friends at  Select Italy Travel Services http://selectitaly.com,  we are thrilled to reprint  Top 4 Gluten Free Restaurants in Florence, Italy from Select Italy’s great travel blog, http://selectitaly.com/blog/?s=travel+gluten+free&submit=Search

1) Golden View Open Bar – Via de Bardi 58/r – A modern Mediterranean restaurant with an appetizing and delicious offer. At Golden View Open Bar you can find gluten-free dishes that preserve the natural flavor of the Italian gourmet. This place is a good choice after your visit to the Pitti Palace, where you can enjoy a nice dinner accompanied by a live jazz concert.

2) Borgo San Jacopo – Via Borgo S. Jacopo, 62/r – Great view, stylish restaurant, and a mix of innovation and tradition in the menu: you will find all this at Borgo San Jacopo. Their pumpkin and leek soup with toasted seeds and the gluten-free yellow potato spaghetti are a must-try. Since it is only open in the evening, this restaurant is a nice place where to have a romantic dinner near the Arno River.

3) La Giostra – Borgo Pinti, 12/r – Tradition and hospitality are the two key words of La Giostra. This eatery will impress you with its meat and fish specialties. Try the branzino (sea bass) with veggies or their famous Florentine steak. Everything is really tempting! Ask for gluten-free options, and the personnel will be happy to help you find the right alternative.

4) Ristorante Accademia – Piazza San Marco, 7/r – After your visit to the amazing Accademia gallery, Ristorante Accademia will be waiting for you with a great variety of flavorful recipes. The vegetarian dishes, salmon, and steak are simply amazing; particularly the salumi and the Florentine steak will catch your attention! To have more varieties to chose from, advise them about your gluten intolerance. You will definitely love your dinner at Ristorante Accademia, famous for its authentic rustic cuisine, attentive staff, and welcoming atmosphere. 

Florence is renowned for its interesting museums and for Michelangelo’s works of art. For more suggestions in this noble city, check out Select Italy’s Tips for Travelers.

Are you gluten intolerant? Which problems did you have to face while traveling in Italy?