When you think of Italy, what is the first thing that comes to your mind? I think of delicious food and tasty spirits! If you’re anything like me, food is a big part of my travel experience. Many of my fondest travel memories include amazing meals while experiencing unique dishes for the first time.
Exploring the food of a region gives us a deep insight into the local people and their culture. Italians tend to cook with fresh and simple ingredients and focus dishes around seasonal produce. Visiting the centuries-old local farmers market allows you to peek into local shops, discover what’s in season, and you’ll have a variety of tasty treats to try!
Throughout Italy, each city or region is known for its own delicious specialties. Since most first-time travelers visit Venice, Tuscany, and Rome we are exploring what you can expect to taste when you travel to these specific areas. You won’t want to miss experiencing these dishes!
Venice is known for its rich risottos, saline baccalà (salted cod), and creamy polenta. Tiramisu is the specialty dessert that the locals often pair with a ‘spritz’. A spritz is a mix of white wine, Campari or Aperol, and soda water.
Tuscany’s cuisine celebrates simplicity by using locally grown produce to create hearty, rustic dishes. You can expect to indulge in Pecorino cheese, farro, and artisanal cured meats. Local vineyards produce the most excellent wines and olive oils. Be sure to sample intriguing flavors of gelato offered by a local gelateria for dessert or an afternoon treat!
Roman’s on-the-go snack is pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice). Caciao e Pepe and Carbonara are also two popular pasta dishes. Artichokes are prepared in a variety of ways and are available year-round. Delicious!
Don’t pass up on exploring the food scene from a streetside café, a hole-in-the-wall eatery, or a Michelin-star restaurant. Consider taking a cooking class if you want to add to your cooking repertoire, or “meet the maker” to learn about how a particular portion of food is grown or produced. No matter how many foods you try, you’ll be coming home with amazing memories of the Italian people and their love of food!
Hungry yet? Let our team of experienced travel advisors help you with trip details that will make your next trip to Italy absolutely delicious!
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