Gluten-Free Restaurants in San Marino

Anyone who suffers from celiac disease, like me, knows that feeling well: the desire to enjoy a dinner out without having to consult dozens of websites, make phone calls in advance, or worse still, give up altogether. San Marino, the world’s oldest republic, has decided to become one of the most welcoming destinations for those seeking quality gluten-free restaurants.

Visiting San Marino City means immersing yourself in a breathtaking medieval village, with its three iconic towers dominating Mount Titano. But for a celiac, it also means being able to count on a network of prepared, certified venues ready to transform lunch or dinner into a moment of pure gastronomic pleasure.

In this guide, you will find all the restaurants, pizzerias and bistros where you can eat gluten-free in San Marino and surroundings, with practical information on certifications, menus and booking tips. Please note, only certified gluten-free restaurants have been included; with proper precautions and advance notice, it is also possible to have lunch or dinner at other non-certified restaurants.

Gluten-free gnocchi with ragù made at Replay gluten-free bistrot in San Marino

Why Choose a Certified Gluten-Free Restaurant in San Marino

The difference between a restaurant that “offers gluten-free options” and one certified by AIC (Italian Celiac Association) is not just semantic: it’s a matter of food safety. Venues participating in the AFC (Eating Out) programme follow rigorous protocols ranging from staff training to ingredient management, through to cooking and plating procedures.

San Marino is part of the AFC network of AIC Emilia Romagna, which has over 200 certified venues across the region and the small Republic. This means regular inspections, constant updates on regulations and the certainty of finding trained staff who are aware of the needs of those living with celiac disease.

How to Recognise a Certified Restaurant and What It Means for Food Safety

An AIC certified venue displays the official AFC programme window sticker, but the advice is always to verify actual membership through the AIC Mobile app or the official Italian Celiac Association website. Certification guarantees the use of products listed in the National Register of Gluten-Free Foods of the Ministry of Health and the application of specific procedures to avoid any cross-contamination.

In addition to AIC certified venues, there are restaurants that, while not formally participating in the programme, have developed specific expertise in gluten-free cooking, trained staff and years of experience serving celiac customers. In this guide, you will find them all, with clear indications of their level of preparation.

The Role of the AFC Network in Protecting Celiacs

The AIC’s Eating Out programme does not just issue certifications: it offers ongoing training to restaurateurs, up-to-date informational materials and a system of checks that ensures standards are maintained over time. For those travelling or visiting San Marino during a day of discovery, knowing you can count on this network means freedom of choice and peace of mind.

Gluten-Free Restaurants in San Marino’s Historic Centre

San Marino’s historic centre offers some of the best options for eating gluten-free, with venues that combine Romagna culinary tradition with attention to the needs of celiac customers.

Ristorante Pizzeria Il Beccafico

Address: Via Salita alla Rocca 35, 47890 City of San Marino
Phone: 0549 992430
Certification: AIC circuit member

Located along the road leading to the First Tower Guaita, Il Beccafico has become a reference point for those seeking quality gluten-free cuisine in San Marino. The venue is part of the AIC circuit and offers a menu where it is clearly specified whether a product is gluten-free or not.

Generous plate of tortellini with ragù eaten at the Beccafico restaurant

The kitchen offers homemade fresh gluten-free pasta, from tagliatelle to tortellini, from ravioli to strozzapreti, all prepared in the internal workshop. The pizza, made with their own dough rather than ready-made bases, represents another excellence of the venue. The panoramic terrace with views over the Valmarecchia valley makes the experience even more memorable.

Gluten-free ravioli from Il Beccafico restaurant in San Marino City

Celiac customers particularly appreciate the attention to detail and the competence of the staff, who perfectly understand the needs of those who must avoid gluten.

Ristorante Pizzeria Spingarda

Address: Contrada dei Magazzeni 30, 47890 City of San Marino
Phone: 0549 992306
Certification: AIC circuit member

Another historic venue in the centre, Spingarda is certified by the Italian Celiac Association and offers an extensive gluten-free menu ranging from starters to desserts. The gluten-free pizza is particularly appreciated.

Among the specialties to try: seafood dishes are definitely the stars. The veranda with panoramic views over the surrounding hills is the ideal place for a romantic dinner or a special evening. The staff is trained and attentive, and the restaurant can also host private events for those wishing to celebrate special occasions with entirely gluten-free menus.

Gluten-Free Restaurants Outside the Historic Centre

Those who prefer to venture off the most beaten tourist paths or are looking for options in the various Castles of the Republic will find other valid choices.

Ristorante Pizzeria Due Archi – Fiorentino

Address: Via del Passetto 47, 47897 Fiorentino
Phone: 0549 997889
Certification: AIC circuit member

Located in the Castle of Fiorentino, Due Archi is a restaurant and pizzeria that is part of the AIC circuit. Perfect for families, it offers a complete menu with gluten-free options ranging from traditional cuisine to pizza.

The atmosphere is welcoming and informal, ideal for a family lunch or a quiet dinner away from the crowds of the historic centre.

Ristorante Pizzeria Raschi – Domagnano

Address: Strada XXV Marzo 13, 47895 Domagnano
Phone: 0549 963721
Certification: AIC circuit member

In the Castle of Domagnano, Raschi is another AIC certified venue worth visiting. The atmosphere is refined and aesthetically pleasing, with tables both indoors and outdoors (during summer). The kitchen offers fresh, traditional products, with particular attention to gluten-free pizza and first courses.

Gluten Free Bistrot – Replay Cafè – Falciano

Address: Via dei Paceri 84/c, 47891 Falciano
Phone: 0549 909986
Certification: 100% gluten-free AIC certified venue

Replay Cafè represents an exception in the gluten-free dining landscape: it is a venue with a dual kitchen, with a space entirely dedicated to gluten-free cooking, featuring an open workshop where sweet and savoury products are prepared fresh every day.

Perfect for breakfast with croissants, cream puffs and fresh pastries, Replay also offers lunches with homemade fresh pasta, pizza by the slice and main courses. The atmosphere is modern and welcoming, the owners always greet you with a smile and their expertise on celiac disease is complete.

Important to know: the venue is mainly open during the week (Monday to Friday for lunch, closed on Sundays), making it ideal for those working in the area or for a break during a trip to San Marino. They also offer takeaway service, excellent for those who want to stock up on quality gluten-free products.

Gluten-free passatelli from Replay

Just Outside the Border: A Historic Option

For those arriving in San Marino from the Romagna coast, there is a historic venue that deserves special mention.

Pizz’Osteria Da Mazza – Cerasolo di Coriano

Address: Via Ausa 138, Cerasolo di Coriano 47853
Phone: 0541 759060
Certification: AIC circuit member since 2011 – Historic Shop

On the consular road from Rimini to San Marino, the Mazza family has been running this venue since 1963, obtaining AIC certification for gluten-free dining in 2011. It has become a true reference point for celiacs throughout the province of Rimini and for tourists visiting San Marino.

The special feature? The entire menu is available in a gluten-free version, from Romagna piadina to homemade pasta, from pizza to fried fish. They have two separate kitchens to ensure maximum safety.

The venue has received the Historic Shop recognition from the Municipality of Coriano, testament to over 60 years of business and tradition.

Map of San Marino showing where to find gluten-free restaurants

Contamination Prevention: What to Expect

Food safety is the main concern of every celiac when eating out. Here’s what certified restaurants do to ensure a safe meal.

Kitchen Safety Protocols

Venues belonging to the AIC circuit follow codified procedures that include separation of preparation areas, use of dedicated utensils (pots, ladles, cutting boards), thorough cleaning of surfaces before preparing gluten-free dishes and separate storage of ingredients.

In more structured venues, such as Replay Cafè in Falciano or Pizz’Osteria Da Mazza, there are completely separate kitchens, which represent the highest possible level of safety.

Staff Training

Staff at certified venues participate in specific training courses on celiac disease and gluten-free food preparation procedures. This means that waiters and chefs understand the risks of cross-contamination and know how to handle requests from celiac customers.

When booking, always specify your requirements: a well-prepared venue will appreciate advance communication and can guarantee you better service.

How to Book and Communicate Your Needs

A well-managed booking is the first step towards a relaxed experience. Here are some practical tips.

Booking Channels

All listed venues accept phone bookings. Some, like Il Beccafico and Spingarda, can also be reached through their websites and social media pages. When booking, clearly communicate that you are celiac and need a gluten-free menu.

What to Communicate

Specify if you only have celiac disease or also other intolerances (lactose, nickel, etc.), so the kitchen can prepare adequately. If travelling with a mixed group (celiacs and non-celiacs), enquire about the possibility of having different menus at the same table.

Waiting Times

Freshly prepared gluten-free dishes may require longer times, especially for fresh pasta and pizza dough. Consider this when planning your visit, particularly if you have time constraints during a tourist itinerary.

Gluten-Free Menu: From Starter to Dessert

Gluten-free cuisine in San Marino doesn’t mean sacrifices, but rather discovering authentic flavours prepared with quality ingredients.

Starters and First Courses

Romagna tradition naturally offers many gluten-free dishes: local cured meats and cheeses, grilled vegetables, fish carpaccio. For first courses, certified restaurants offer homemade fresh pasta such as tagliatelle, cappelletti, tortellini and strozzapreti, all prepared with gluten-free flours.

The piadina, symbol of local tradition, is available in a gluten-free version at several venues, particularly at Pizz’Osteria Da Mazza.

Main Courses and Desserts

Meat and fish main courses are generally safe, but watch out for breadings and sauces. Certified venues also know how to prepare gluten-free fried foods using dedicated oil and certified flours. For desserts, from classic almond cake to more elaborate gluten-free tiramisu, options are plentiful.

Summary Table of Gluten-Free Restaurants

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Gluten-Free in San Marino

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it is always recommended to book while communicating your dietary requirements, especially on weekends and during peak tourist season.

Are AIC certified venues more expensive?
Prices are generally in line with traditional restaurants. Some venues apply a small surcharge for gluten-free dishes due to the higher cost of ingredients.

Can I trust non-certified venues?
AIC certification is the most reliable guarantee. For non-certified venues, the advice is always to clearly communicate your needs and assess the staff’s knowledge.

Are there gluten-free ice cream shops in San Marino?
Some ice cream shops, like Sweet Line in San Marino Dogana, as well as other gelaterias, offer gluten-free products, although they are not certified and cannot guarantee against cross-contamination.

How do I verify if a venue is truly AIC certified?
Through the AIC Mobile app or the official Italian Celiac Association website. The lists of member venues are reserved for AIC members.

Experiencing San Marino Gluten-Free: A Complete Experience

San Marino is not just towers, panoramas and millennial history. For those living with celiac disease, it is also proof that travelling and eating well are rights that should not be denied by a food intolerance.

The restaurants and pizzerias of the Republic today offer conscious, prepared hospitality that is genuinely attentive to the needs of celiacs. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer stay, knowing you can count on safe venues makes the experience infinitely more enjoyable.

Have a great trip and bon appétit – gluten-free, of course.

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