We are heading to our #1 bestselling destination since Covid relinquished its grip on travel, and it's likely no surprise that this is Italy. Enjoy our Top 5 which leads you through the Regional Foods of Italy, a rather epic and tasty journey indeed. Click the photos for a full guide to 17 different regions and their exceptional specialties and delicacies.
1. Calabria
Italy's southern gem, boasts a rich culinary heritage. Its cuisine celebrates fresh seafood, sun-ripened vegetables, and bold flavors. Highlights include swordfish, sardines, and 'nduja (above), a spicy spreadable salami. Pasta dishes like fileja with 'nduja and eggplant showcase local flair. Citrus fruits, bergamot, and figs add zest to desserts like granita and pastries. Calabrian cuisine is a feast for the senses, reflecting its vibrant culture.
Liguria
Nestled along Italy's northwest coast, Liguria is a celebration of simplicity and freshness. Famed for pesto Genovese, made with basil, pine nuts, and Parmigiano-Reggiano, Ligurian dishes shine with aromatic herbs and olive oil. Seafood stars in classics like anchovies and stuffed squid, while focaccia bread delights with its airy texture. Ligurian cuisine captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors in every bite.
Piemonte
Located in Italy's northwest, Piemonte is a gastronomic delight steeped in tradition. Renowned for truffles (above), Barolo wine, and rich risottos, Piemontese cuisine indulges in hearty flavors. Tender agnolotti pasta, braised meats like brasato al Barolo, and creamy cheese fonduta epitomize its rustic charm. Hazelnuts lend sweetness to desserts like gianduja chocolate. Piemonte's food is a journey through the soul of Italian cooking.
Sicilia
The cuisine of Sicily provides a mosaic of flavors from Italy's largest island, tantalizes with its diverse influences. From arancini, stuffed rice balls, to savory caponata, aubergine relish, every bite reflects the island's rich history. Fresh seafood stars in dishes like pasta con le sarde (above), while citrus fruits add zing to desserts like cannoli and cassata. Sicilian food is a vibrant fusion of Mediterranean delights, a true culinary treasure.
Umbria
In the heart of Italy, Umbrian cuisine is a rustic symphony of flavors. Earthy dishes like wild boar stew (above) and lentil soup celebrate the region's bounty. Handmade pasta, such as strangozzi, pairs perfectly with black truffles. Porchetta, roasted pork, tantalizes with its crispy skin and juicy meat. Umbria's food reflects a deep connection to the land and a timeless culinary tradition.
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Hi, I'm John, and I'm told I have a cool accent. I love travel and I love travel planning just as much and am proud to have built a team as passionate about exploring the world as myself. It took me a very long time to align my career with my undeniable passion for traveling, but now I and the team are here for you. Your personal travel tailors - award reservation and luxury custom itinerary experts. We provide bespoke service, imagining and creating luxurious itineraries for independent minded families and groups.
