Tortello and Chianina Festival

The Taste of Mugello

At the end of August, Borgo San Lorenzo, the main town in the Mugello area near Florence, hosts a long-running festival dedicated to the two products that best define the valley's cuisine: the Mugello potato tortello and Chianina beef. The Tortello and Chianina Festival takes place at the Foro Boario, a recently redeveloped public space that has become the town's hub for outdoor events. The festival is organized by ASD Fortis Juventus, a local sports club that has been hosting this community gathering for years.

The Mugello Tortello: A Signature Dish

The potato tortello is the most beloved specialty of the Mugello region: fresh egg pasta filled with boiled and mashed potatoes, seasoned with garlic, parsley, nutmeg, and cheese. Originally a humble peasant dish, it has become the area's gastronomic symbol, traditionally served with a rich meat ragù. At the festival, it is prepared according to the local recipe, alongside other great Tuscan culinary staples.

Chianina and Grilled Meats

The other major attraction is Chianina, one of Italy's oldest and most prestigious cattle breeds, famous for being the source of the legendary Florentine steak. At the festival, the meat is grilled to perfection and served in traditional cuts, as part of a menu that celebrates the authentic flavors of the Mugello countryside. The menu is rounded out by side dishes, desserts, and local red wines, which are the perfect accompaniment to the meal.

A True Village Festival

Beyond the food, the Tortello and Chianina Festival is a moment of connection for Borgo San Lorenzo and the entire Mugello region. The evenings at the Foro Boario combine long communal tables under marquees with the relaxed atmosphere of a summer fair, welcoming families, groups of friends, and visitors from the city. It is the ideal opportunity to discover the most authentic side of Tuscan gastronomy, far from the typical tourist trails.

Location

The Foro Boario is located in Borgo San Lorenzo, the main municipality of the Mugello area in the Province of Florence, about half an hour from the Tuscan capital. The area, which has been completely renovated with a park, parking facilities, and a new multi-purpose structure, is connected to the historic center by a pedestrian walkway and is easily accessible from the surrounding valley towns.