One of the greatest joys of discovering a new place, whether on vacation or moving there permanently, is exploring its food. Traditional dishes are more than just recipes; they’re edible stories that speak of history, culture, and everyday life. Tasting them is one of the most authentic ways to connect with a territory and its past. That’s exactly what I’ve been doing since moving to Lucca. And what better way to kick off this new series, One Bite, One Story, than with one of my favorite local dishes: Rovelline Lucchese. Imagine a crispy, tender slice of beef, breaded and fried, then coated in a bright tomato sauce with capers. Humble, comforting, and packed with flavor.

 

In this series, I’ll share the Story behind each dish and where you can taste some of the best versions right here in Lucca, a spot that just earn a place in my personal guide to casual dining in Lucca.

 

What is the Rovelline Lucchese: The First Bite

Thin slices of breaded and fried beef, prepared much like a Milanese-style cotoletta or a German schnitzel, then bathed in a flavorful tomato sauce with capers—that’s the simple magic of Rovelline Lucchese.

 

But while the preparation may sound straightforward, the first bite tells a more complex story. Your taste buds are treated to a delightful contrast of textures and flavors: the crispy, juicy meat, the bright acidity of the capers taking center stage, and the savory richness of the tomato sauce rounding everything out.

 

It’s a warm, comforting dish that tastes like Sunday. Like family gatherings. Like something that’s been shared around local tables for generations.

 

 

The Story Behind Rovelline Lucchese: Origin, History, Local Anecdotes

 

Like many of the world’s most delicious dishes, Rovelline Lucchese has humble origins. It began as a poor dish, born out of necessity in rural households where nothing went to waste. Leftover breaded and fried beef from the day before was given new life, simmered in a simple yet flavorful sauce made with tomatoes, herbs, and capers—transforming yesterday’s meal into something entirely different and deeply satisfying.

 

Some historical theories suggest that the tradition of breading meat in Lucca dates back to the Austro-Hungarian influence in the region. After the fall of the Napoleonic Empire, Austro-Hungarian troops were stationed in this part of Tuscany, and it’s believed that locals adopted the custom of breading and frying meat from them.

 

Over time, Lucchese families began experimenting with ways to reinvent these fried cutlets, turning leftover meat into something new and flavorful. This creative approach to making the most of what they had eventually led to the dish we now know and love as Rovelline Lucchese.

 

As with many traditional dishes, every family has its version. Some add a soffrito of sautéed vegetables, and others enrich the sauce with aromatic herbs. But no matter the variation, one thing remains the same: the intensity of flavor and the comforting feeling of home it brings to the table.

 

Where to Taste it: Local Tip

As a beloved traditional dish, Rovelline Lucchese can be found on the menu of many trattorias and osterias across Lucca. But the version that truly stole my heart is the one prepared by Sole at Il Mecenate—a Rovellina that’s incredibly juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor.

 

 

Il Mecenate is a cozy restaurant known for serving authentic Lucchese cuisine, with a focus on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients from nearby farmers and producers. The setting is just as charming as the food: the restaurant is housed in what was once an old dry cleaner’s shop, and if you look closely, you can still spot traces of its past, like the original sign on the façade.

Beyond the food, the warm and attentive service makes the dining experience even more special. Whether you come here specifically for the Rovellina or to explore other traditional dishes from the region, Il Mecenate is a must-visit spot for anyone wanting to taste the authentic flavors of Lucca.