Buzz
What to eat when traveling to Italy? Join Mytour to explore famous Italian dishes, from Spaghetti to Pizza Napoli, in this article!
Italy captivates visitors not only with its magnificent architecture but also with the refined charm of its rich and exquisite cuisine. A fragrant pizza or a plate of flavorful pasta tells its own story, creating an unforgettable experience for those who savor it.
Each dish carries the freshness of its ingredients and the finesse of the chef's hands, embodying the culture, passion, and timeless legacy that Italians cherish, making it irresistibly appealing. Let’s explore the must-try Italian dishes for your travel journey!
1. Neapolitan Pizza - A Must-Try Italian Specialty
Known as the original pizza, Neapolitan Pizza dates back to the 18th century, when the first pizzas were baked with a thin, crispy, and chewy crust, handcrafted from premium flour and fermented for 48 hours. The toppings are simple yet elegant, featuring San Marzano tomatoes, salame sausage, prosciutto, and melted mozzarella cheese, garnished with basil and olive oil, creating a perfect symphony of flavors.
Each Neapolitan Pizza must be baked at 485°C in a wood-fired oven to ensure a beautifully puffed crust with slightly charred edges. Recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage, Neapolitan Pizza embodies a piece of Italy's culinary soul. When eating, lift each slice by hand, savor its softness and flavor, and enjoy it with a glass of red wine.
If you have the chance, visit renowned restaurants like L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele or Sorbillo in Naples to experience this pizza the authentic way.
2. Italian-Style Cornmeal Polenta
Polenta, a traditional dish from Northern Italy, may seem simple at first glance, but its flavor and versatility in preparation will surprise you. Dating back to ancient Roman times, polenta was once a peasant's meal but has now become an essential part of Italian and Southern European cuisine.
What makes polenta fascinating is its adaptability. It can be paired with wild boar, buttery mushroom sauce, melted cheese, or even seafood. Polenta is also used in desserts like cookies and cakes, adding variety to the dining experience.
When visiting Lombardy or Piedmont, don’t miss Ristorante Da Guido to enjoy polenta prepared in the traditional style, priced between 6-10 Euros per serving.
3. Risotto - A Rich and Flavorful Italian Classic
When it comes to Italian cuisine, Risotto is a must-mention dish, known for its creamy texture and rich flavors derived from the finest ingredients.
Unlike regular rice, risotto is made from special varieties like Arborio or Carnaroli, cooked by continuously stirring in broth to achieve its creamy and savory taste. Each bite melts in your mouth, offering a burst of flavors, from the earthy aroma of porcini mushrooms to the sweetness of fresh seafood and the richness of parmesan cheese.
Risotto can be prepared in various styles, from the saffron-infused Risotto alla Milanese to the seafood-packed Risotto ai Frutti di Mare. Prices typically range from 10-18 Euros, depending on the ingredients. If you're a risotto enthusiast, visit Osteria dei Vespri in Sicily or Ristorante Da Vittorio in Bergamo for an authentic Italian experience.
4. Spaghetti with Tomato and Meat Sauce
If you're a fan of Italian cuisine, you’ve likely heard of or tried the legendary Spaghetti. With its long, thin, and firm noodles paired with sauces like tomato, Bolognese, or seafood Alle Vongole, each variation offers a unique flavor that captivates countless travelers.
Interestingly, each region of Italy has its own way of preparing Spaghetti. In Rome, you can savor Spaghetti Carbonara with bacon and eggs. If you visit Naples, the simple yet flavorful Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with garlic and olive oil will surprise you with its refined taste. Especially when paired with Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, the rich flavors blend harmoniously with the pasta, creating a symphony of exquisite taste.
Don’t forget to visit "Da Enzo al 29" in Rome or "Trattoria da Nennella" in Naples to enjoy traditional Spaghetti at its finest.
5. Gnocchi - Italy’s Signature Potato Pasta
Gnocchi is a unique and delightful Italian dish made from potatoes, flour, and eggs. Often described as "dumpling pasta," Gnocchi has a soft, smooth, and slightly doughy texture. When paired with tomato sauce, pesto, or Gorgonzola cheese, it becomes a perfect choice for those who love diverse flavors.
The origins of Gnocchi date back to ancient Rome, where it was made from semolina flour. However, the potato-based Gnocchi we know today only emerged after potatoes were introduced to Italy from South America in the 16th century. This has made Gnocchi a popular dish in cooler regions like northern Italy.
Make sure to visit "Osteria Antica Bologna" in Bologna to try Gnocchi with a variety of rich and flavorful sauces.
6. Italian-Style Fried Rice Balls - Arancini
Arancini - crispy, golden fried rice balls - are a famous specialty from Sicily. Filled with creamy Risotto rice combined with meat, cheese, or vegetables, Arancini not only look appealing but also offer a rich variety of flavors. The crunchy outer layer encases a soft, flavorful filling, creating a delightful contrast with every bite.
Arancini dates back to the 10th century when Sicily was under Arab rule. The name "Arancini" means "little oranges" in Italian, referring to their shape and golden color. Though commonly sold as street food at small stalls, Arancini also graces the menus of upscale restaurants like "Antica Focacceria San Francesco" in Palermo.
7. Ravioli - Italy’s Famous Stuffed Pasta
Ravioli, a renowned stuffed pasta, originated in medieval Italy, particularly in Tuscany. It was first mentioned in the 14th century in a letter by Italian merchant Francesco di Marco Datini.
Ravioli’s dough is made from flour and eggs, with fillings ranging from cheese, meat, and vegetables to seafood. Typically boiled and served with sauces like tomato, cream, or garlic butter, Ravioli offers a rich and enticing flavor. Whether square, round, or crescent-shaped, Ravioli showcases the creativity and refinement of Italian cuisine.
This dish is often served with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a glass of Italian wine. In Italy, you can enjoy famous Ravioli at Osteria Francescana (Modena) for around 25-40 Euros per serving.
8. Italian-Style Steak - Bistecca alla Fiorentina
Bistecca alla Fiorentina - the name itself exudes Italian charm! This iconic steak from Tuscany is renowned for its thick T-bone cut, grilled over hot coals. The rich flavor of tender beef combined with a crispy outer crust creates a perfection only Florence can deliver. Locals often keep it simple, grilling the meat without heavy seasoning to highlight its natural taste.
A standard slice of Bistecca Fiorentina is about 5-6 cm thick and weighs between 1 to 1.5 kg, satisfying even the most discerning diners. It’s typically served with Cannellini beans or salad and paired with a robust glass of Chianti red wine.
Visitors to Italy must stop by Ristorante I' Toscano in Florence to experience the finesse of this exquisite steak.
9. Italian-Style Tomato Mozzarella Caprese Salad
Believed to originate from the beautiful island of Capri, Caprese Salad embodies the freshness of the Mediterranean, captivating anyone from the first bite. With colors representing the Italian flag – green from basil, white from mozzarella, and red from tomatoes – this salad has become a symbol of simplicity and elegance.
Caprese is often served as an appetizer, simple yet incredibly flavorful. A drizzle of premium olive oil and a pinch of sea salt are enough to create a delightful taste experience. A popular variation includes balsamic vinegar or a touch of pesto to enhance the flavor.
If you visit Naples, make sure to stop by Pizzeria di Matteo or La Caprese to enjoy a fresh plate of Caprese.
10. Vitello Tonnato - Italian-Style Veal with Tonnato Sauce
Vitello Tonnato, a renowned dish from Piedmont, Italy, is sure to impress any gourmet. At first glance, veal and tuna might not seem like a perfect match, but the balance between the delicate flavor of the meat and the richness of the sauce will surprise you.
The veal is braised in white wine until tender, thinly sliced, and topped with a sauce made from tuna, egg yolks, olive oil, and a hint of lemon. Vitello Tonnato is typically served at room temperature or chilled, enhancing its refreshing quality, making it ideal for summer gatherings or as an appetizer.
Did you know this dish is also a favorite in Argentina during Christmas? Be sure to visit renowned restaurants like Del Cambio in Turin or Trattoria della Posta in Alba. A serving costs around 15-20 euros, well worth the refined flavor and meticulous preparation.
11. Italian-Style White Truffle - Bianco Tartufo
If you’re a fan of gourmet cuisine, white truffle (Bianco Tartufo) is a treasure you can’t miss when visiting Italy. Known as the "white diamond" of gastronomy, this rare delicacy boasts a unique, unmistakable flavor. Bianco Tartufo is primarily found in Piedmont, especially in the town of Alba, which hosts annual truffle fairs in October and November, attracting thousands of visitors and renowned chefs worldwide.
The aroma of white truffle is often described as earthy, reminiscent of rain-soaked soil, with a subtle nutty and refined taste. It’s typically shaved over dishes like pasta, risotto, or even scrambled eggs, where just a few thin slices elevate the dish to a luxurious Italian culinary experience. However, Bianco Tartufo comes at a high price, ranging from 3,000 to 7,000 euros per kilogram, with dishes featuring this prized ingredient costing hundreds of euros.
12. Gelato - Italy’s Refreshing Frozen Dessert
Unlike traditional ice cream, Gelato originated during the Italian Renaissance and flourished in cities like Florence and Naples. What sets Gelato apart is its preparation: with less air incorporated during churning, it becomes denser and richer in flavor compared to regular ice cream.
Additionally, Gelato contains less fat (only 5-8%) compared to traditional ice cream, making it a healthier dessert option. Popular Gelato flavors include pistachio, hazelnut, and tiramisu.
When in Italy, visit Gelateria Dondoli in San Gimignano, one of the most famous Gelato spots, where a colorful cup costs just 2-5 Euros. Also, don’t miss La Carraia in Florence to enjoy Gelato in a charming, historic Italian setting.
13. Tiramisu - Italy’s Iconic Coffee-Flavored Dessert
In your journey through Italian cuisine, no dessert captivates quite like Tiramisu, whose name means "cheer me up." Originating in the 1960s, Tiramisu combines soft ladyfinger biscuits soaked in coffee with creamy mascarpone layers. A dusting of cocoa on top enhances the perfect balance of sweet, bitter, and rich flavors.
Tiramisu is a classic chilled dessert, ideal to pair with a hot espresso or as a sweet ending to meals at restaurants across Italy. A serving typically costs 5-10 Euros, depending on the location. Be sure to visit Pompi, renowned for serving the best Tiramisu in Italy, offering creative variations like strawberry, banana, and almond flavors.
14. Limoncello - Italy’s Famous Lemon Liqueur
Limoncello, the shining gem of Southern Italian cuisine, offers a unique experience from the very first sip. Made from fresh lemon zest, this liqueur stands out with its vibrant yellow color, blending the tangy freshness of lemons with a subtle sweetness. With an alcohol content of 25% to 30%, Limoncello provides a pleasant sensation, perfect for enjoying during or after meals.
This liqueur can also be used in cocktails or as an ingredient in desserts like mousse and ice cream. A bottle of Limoncello in Italy costs between 15 to 30 EUR, depending on quality and brand. Don’t miss the chance to savor Limoncello at famous bars and restaurants in the Amalfi Coast or Naples, known for their sprawling lemon groves.
15. Italian-Style Rich Espresso Coffee
If you’re a coffee lover, you must try Espresso - the essence of Italian coffee culture. Brewed from dark-roasted coffee beans under high pressure, topped with a layer of fine foam called "crema," a small cup of espresso delivers an intense aroma and unmistakable flavor.
You can enjoy espresso on its own or as part of other drinks like cappuccino, latte, or macchiato. Skilled milk frothing and latte art techniques add to the experience, making your Espresso journey even more delightful.
The price of an espresso in Italy is very affordable, ranging from 1 to 2 EUR at local cafes. Some famous Espresso spots to visit include Caffè Florian in Venice and Sant'Eustachio Il Caffè in Rome.
Italian cuisine is not just a perfect blend of flavors and traditions but also a journey into the rich cultural heritage of the country. From fresh pasta to hearty pizza, each dish tells its own story, reflecting the Italian way of life.
Planning a trip to Europe? Check out Mytour’s helpful blogs: North Beach and Little Italy Food Tour in San Francisco, Visiting the Leaning Tower of Pisa - Italy’s Icon, 11 Ideas for a Self-Guided Provence Travel, 10 Must-Visit Vatican Tourist Spots, the World’s Smallest Country, 10 Amazing Amsterdam Day Trip Destinations, 14-Day Self-Guided Europe Travel Guide, How to Travel from Paris to Rome by Train, and the Latest Schengen Visa Application Process.
Don’t forget to savor the incredible Italian dishes when you visit!
