While most travelers flock to Pisa for a photo with its famously tilted tower, there’s a whole other side to this Tuscan city worth exploring — the one served on a plate. Pisa’s cuisine is grounded in rustic traditions, drawing on the best of land and sea and served with the kind of heartwarming hospitality that defines Tuscany.
If you’re wondering what to eat in Pisa, start with this list of 12 must-try dishes. Whether you're dining at a trattoria tucked behind the Field of Miracles or grabbing a quick bite during an excursion, these are the best foods in Pisa that highlight the region’s rich culinary identity.
1. Cecina
Pisa’s most iconic street food is cecina, a thin, savory pancake made from chickpea flour, water, olive oil and salt. Crisp on the outside and soft inside, it’s typically served hot and eaten plain or in a sandwich with focaccia. Simple and naturally gluten-free, it’s a local favorite for a quick, satisfying snack.
2. Torta co’ Bischeri
This sweet treat is as Pisan as the Leaning Tower itself. Torta co’ bischeri is a chocolate rice tart with raisins, pine nuts and candied fruit, baked in a shortcrust pastry and traditionally prepared for religious festivals. The edges of the crust are pinched into decorative points called “bischeri,” giving the pie its signature look.
3. Panzanella
Refreshing and full of summer flavor, panzanella is a Tuscan bread salad made with chunks of stale bread, ripe tomatoes, red onion, cucumber and basil. It’s lightly dressed with olive oil and vinegar, letting the produce shine. You’ll find this dish across Pisa, especially during warmer months.
4. Bordatino alla Pisana
This hearty soup reflects Pisa’s working-class roots. Bordatino alla Pisana is a thick stew made with cornmeal (similar to polenta), beans and black cabbage or kale. It’s filling, rustic and often served in colder months to warm the soul with every spoonful.
5. Pasta al Ragù di Cinghiale
Wild boar, or cinghiale, is a Tuscan favorite and in Pisa, it often appears in a rich, slow-simmered ragù served over pappardelle or tagliatelle pasta. The meat is marinated in red wine and herbs, giving it deep, complex flavor — a must-try if you’re looking for something bold and hearty.
6. Crostini Toscani
A classic antipasto across the region, crostini toscani are slices of toasted bread topped with a smooth chicken liver pâté. The spread is often made with capers, anchovies and herbs for a deeply savory flavor. It’s a staple starter and a great way to begin any meal in Pisa.
7. Triglie alla Pisana (Red Mullet)
With its proximity to the Tyrrhenian Sea, Pisa offers delicious seafood — especially triglie alla Pisana or red mullet cooked in a rich tomato and herb sauce. This local dish blends the flavors of land and sea, often served with crusty bread to mop up every last drop.
8. Fegatelli Toscani
A rustic delicacy, fegatelli are small pieces of pork liver seasoned with fennel and pepper, wrapped in caul fat and grilled or roasted. Though not for everyone, this dish is a true taste of traditional Tuscan cooking and can often be found in countryside trattorias or rustic Pisa taverns.
9. Schiacciata
This beloved Tuscan flatbread is the perfect base for sandwiches or to enjoy on its own with a drizzle of olive oil and salt. In Pisa, you’ll find it sold at bakeries throughout the city — sometimes stuffed with prosciutto, cheese or grilled vegetables for an easy and delicious street-side lunch.
10. Risotto al Nero di Seppia
This rich, black risotto gets its bold color and deep flavor from cuttlefish ink. Risotto al nero di seppia is a local favorite in Pisa’s coastal kitchens, combining rice with fresh seafood in a way that’s both dramatic and delicious. Pair it with a crisp white wine to complete the experience.
11. Castagnaccio
This traditional chestnut flour cake is dense and rustic, often made with pine nuts, raisins, rosemary and olive oil. Castagnaccio has no added sugar — its sweetness comes from the chestnut flour itself — and it’s usually served in the fall and winter months.
12. Gelato
It’s no surprise that Pisa serves up world-class gelato and it’s the perfect treat while wandering the city’s historic streets. Look for artisanal gelaterias offering seasonal flavors like fig, ricotta-honey or saffron. Bonus points if you enjoy it in the shadow of the Leaning Tower.
Food Excursions Near Pisa to Explore
While Pisa offers a rich culinary scene of its own, combining your food journey with nearby towns makes the experience even more memorable. These two excursions give you a taste of the region’s history and flavor:
- Pisa & Lucca Highlights
- This guided tour takes you beyond Pisa’s iconic architecture to the charming city of Lucca, known for its Renaissance walls and tranquil streets. You’ll explore both destinations on foot, with ample free time to enjoy regional cuisine. In Pisa, that might mean sampling cecina or pasta al cinghiale, while in Lucca, local specialties like buccellato (sweet bread with raisins and anise) are worth a bite.
- Sarzana’s Medieval Magic and Flavors of Tuscany
- Venture off the beaten path to Sarzana, a picturesque town steeped in medieval charm. After exploring its fortresses and noble palaces, sit down to a traditional Tuscan lunch at a local trattoria. Expect multi-course meals that may include rustic soups, roasted meats, local wines and seasonal vegetables — all crafted with that signature Tuscan love and simplicity.
These excursions don’t just highlight Tuscany’s scenery — they let you taste its story.
What Foods is Pisa Famous For?
Pisa offers straightforward, deeply satisfying cuisine rooted in local tradition and fresh ingredients. From savory chickpea pancakes like cecina to hearty stews like bordatino, the city’s dishes reflect its coastal proximity and countryside soul. Pisa’s food combines the boldness of Tuscan flavors with simple, seasonal cooking. When deciding what to eat in Pisa, you’ll find that the best foods in Pisa aren't fussy — they’re thoughtful, regional and rooted in history. Whether you're savoring crostini toscani in a quiet piazza or enjoying seafood by the river, every bite connects you to the region’s authentic spirit.
Want to explore Pisa through its flavors? Check out shore excursions that pair local cuisine with cultural exploration. While planning your trip, be sure to check out what Pisa is known for to get the most out of your Tuscan adventure.
