Siena Food

Siena’s culinary identity is rooted in the traditions of Tuscany, where simple ingredients are transformed into rich, flavorful dishes. Many of the city’s signature products come directly from the rolling hills and farms that surround it, making each bite a true taste of the land. Whether you’re sampling cured meats, cheeses, or rustic breads, these foods form the backbone of Sienese cuisine.

Cinta Senese pigs, recognizable by the white “belt” (cinta) across their black bodies, are an ancient Tuscan breed raised in the countryside around Siena. Their meat is prized for its marbling and depth of flavor, often used to produce high-quality salumi such as capocollo, finocchiona, and prosciutto. In Siena, a charcuterie platter featuring Cinta Senese salami is an essential starting point for any meal.

The Chianina breed of cattle, native to Tuscany, is one of the oldest and largest in the world. Its lean yet flavorful meat is the star of the famous bistecca alla Fiorentina, a thick-cut, bone-in steak that’s grilled simply over hot coals. In Siena, this dish is often paired with robust Tuscan reds such as Chianti Classico or Brunello di Montalcino for a truly local experience.

Pici is Siena’s signature pasta: hand-rolled, thick, and rustic, made only with flour, water, and olive oil. Its chewy texture makes it the perfect partner for hearty sauces such as cinghiale (wild boar) ragù, aglione (garlic and tomato), or breadcrumbs sautéed in olive oil. Many trattorias in Siena serve their own homemade versions, each slightly different but equally delicious.

Just south of Siena, in the hill town of Pienza, one of Italy’s most celebrated sheep’s milk cheeses is produced. Pecorino di Pienza ranges from fresh and creamy to aged and sharp, with flavor intensities that change depending on how long it’s matured. Locals enjoy it with honey, fresh pears, or walnuts — a combination that balances savory, sweet, and nutty notes beautifully.

Walnuts are a staple in Sienese cooking, used in savory dishes, breads, and desserts. One of the most traditional examples is pan co’ santi, a rustic bread made with walnuts and raisins, often enjoyed during autumn. They also pair naturally with pecorino cheese and local honey, creating a classic Tuscan snack.

Cavolo nero, or Tuscan black cabbage, is a key ingredient in traditional soups and stews. Its earthy flavor and hearty texture make it central to ribollita, a twice-cooked vegetable and bread soup that’s as comforting as it is nutritious. It embodies the frugality and resourcefulness of Tuscan peasant cooking, still beloved in Siena today.

Dining in Siena is a celebration of Tuscan tradition, where meals unfold in multiple courses and every dish reflects centuries of culinary heritage. From handmade pastas to rustic roasts and iconic sweets, Siena’s cuisine is hearty, flavorful, and deeply tied to its land.

First Courses

Literally meaning “straw and hay,” this colorful pasta dish combines green spinach noodles (hay) with yellow egg noodles (straw). Typically tagliatelle, the two are tossed together with prosciutto, onions, peas, olive oil, and cream, then finished with a sprinkle of Parmigiano Reggiano. The mix of flavors and textures makes it a favorite first course, especially when paired with a crisp Tuscan white wine.

Known locally as gnudi senesi (“naked ravioli”), malfatti are soft dumplings made with spinach and ricotta but without a pasta shell. Despite the name meaning “badly made,” these pillowy bites are anything but — delicate and flavorful, often served with a sage butter sauce or simple tomato sauce. They’re a comforting dish that showcases Siena’s rustic ingenuity.

Main Courses

A true Tuscan classic, arista is a roasted pork loin infused with garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Slow-roasted until tender, the meat is thinly sliced and often served with potatoes or seasonal greens. The dish highlights the natural flavor of Siena’s prized pork, especially when prepared with Cinta Senese.

Desserts

Soft, chewy almond cookies dusted with powdered sugar, ricciarelli are Siena’s signature sweet. Traditionally made with almond paste, egg whites, and candied orange peel, they’re delicate yet rich — perfect with a glass of vin santo dessert wine.

Perhaps the most iconic Sienese dessert, panforte is a dense, spiced cake packed with nuts, candied fruits, honey, and warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. With origins dating back to the Middle Ages, panforte remains a beloved festive treat, found in bakeries year-round but especially during Christmas.

Siena is a paradise for food lovers, where traditional Tuscan recipes meet warm hospitality. Dining here isn’t rushed — expect long, leisurely meals that unfold course by course, with generous pours of local wine. While there are plenty of casual trattorias and osterias to choose from, several standout restaurants have earned a reputation for excellence among both locals and visitors.

Address: Via Giovanni Duprè, 132, 53100 Siena SI, Italy

Located in a building that dates back to the 3rd century BC, La Taverna di San Giuseppe combines historic atmosphere with authentic Tuscan flavors. Its vaulted stone dining room sets the stage for dishes featuring Cinta Senese pork, pici pasta, and excellent wines. A must-visit for anyone wanting to experience Siena’s culinary heritage in style.

Address: Via Franciosa, 25/29, 53100 Siena SI, Italy

Osteria da Divo is one of Siena’s most atmospheric restaurants, with dining rooms carved into ancient Etruscan caves. The menu celebrates local cuisine, from handmade pasta to roasted meats, all elevated with creative touches. Its intimate, cave-like setting makes it a favorite for a memorable evening out.

Address: Il Campo, 43, 53100 Siena SI, Italy

Set on Siena’s iconic Piazza del Campo, Al Mangia pairs stunning views with classic Tuscan dishes. It’s an excellent spot to savor Sienese specialties such as ribollita or bistecca alla Fiorentina while soaking up the city’s most famous square. Come for the food, stay for the location.

Address: Via dei Termini, 7, 53100 Siena SI, Italy

Enoteca I Terzi is a must-visit for wine enthusiasts, with a deep cellar showcasing an exceptional range of Tuscan labels. The wine list is complemented by beautifully prepared dishes that highlight local ingredients, offering the perfect balance of refined cuisine and authentic flavors. The warm, elegant atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for both casual tastings and special dinners.

For the best experience, we recommend staying close to Piazza del Campo, Siena’s famous shell-shaped square. This area is not only the historic heart of the city but also the most atmospheric, with winding medieval streets, lively cafés, and easy access to the top restaurants and wine bars. Staying here means you’ll be within walking distance of Siena’s main attractions, including the Duomo, Torre del Mangia, and local markets.

Use the interactive map below to find hotels and apartments in Siena. Filter by your travel dates to see availability and the best prices.