From basil-topped pizza to rich and creamy tiramisu, Italy has a variety of flavors that match the taste buds of global travelers, irrespective of their age group or background. Although modern variations have come into the picture in today’s world, Italian food can be the envy of the tourist population that has emerged from the Northern Alps to the Southern shores of Sicily. Once your Italy visit visa is approved, here are the top ten must-try Italian dishes and where to find them during your Italian vacation.
Best time to visit Italy
The spring months between April and June and the fall months between September and October are the best time to explore Italy.
1. Arancini
Origin – Sicily
You will find numerous regional fusions and preparations in each region, but the best is always found where it originated. This iconic Italian food is a cheesy ball of goodness. It has tantalized the taste buds worldwide, clocking the highest levels of satisfaction and taste.
Ingredients – Meat ragu and peas, ham or mozzarella cheese. The ball or the cone of risotto is then rolled in a breadcrumb and finally deep fried.
Where to find them – There are iconic destinations where you can find the Arancini in Sicily - Da Cristina, Bar Avrs.
2. Caprese Salad
Origin – Capri
This simple salad is prepared with just four easily found ingredients. Locally and super fresh ingredients are the key to tasting authentic Caprese Salad. You can easily co-create this dish in your own kitchen. Still, we recommend you taste it at one of the Capri restaurants or cafés for the best authentic experience.
Ingredients – Fresh tomatoes, basil, mozzarella cheese, salt, pepper, and extra virgin olive oil.
Where to find them – La Capannina in Capri, Terrazza Bar al Ponte in Verona, and Vini e Vecchi Sapori in Florence.
3. Gelato
Origin – Not defined in Italian records
Although it has deeply embedded Italian roots, the exact origin of the Gelato is yet to be defined in Italian records. Found in almost every street corner in Italy, this dish is not prepared with eggs and has a super dense and creamy texture. You may find different variations of puffy, colorful, and shiny Gelatos all over Italy.
Ingredients – Milk, cream, sugar, and chocolate, topped with nuts and dry fruits.
Where to find them – Gelateria Dondoli in San Gimignano, Perche’ No in Florence, Caffe Sicilia in Noto, and Vivoli in Florence.
4. Lasagna
Origin – Naples
This Italian food is among the oldest types of pasta, and its origins go way back to ancient Rome and Greece. This staple Italian comfort food is best served with a simple green salad and fine Italian wine. The multiple pasta layers combine the rich flavors of tomato and cheese and can delight all taste buds.
Ingredients – layers of pasta, parmesan cheese, Italian seasonings, bechamel sauce, Bolognese sauce, veggies, and meat of your choice baked to perfection.
Where to find them – Al Cambio, Naldi, and Osteria Broccaindosso in Bologna.
5. Osso Buco
Origin – Milan
This Italian food has been a staple of Lombard cuisine for ages. You can pair this dish with a creamy risotto for the best culinary delight, as the risotto compliments the rich and savory texture of the Braised Veal, creating a satisfying and harmonious meal.
Ingredients – Braised Veal shanks, white wine broth, and veggies of your choice.
Where to find them – Al Garghet, Trattoria Milanese, and Ratana in Milan.
6. Prosciutto Di Parma
Origin – Parma
Parma in Italy is renowned for its ham, thinly sliced with melon when best served. The think ham slices will awaken all gastronomical juices. The shiny texture gives it a rich taste. Many locals love this dish with Lambrusco, a sparkling red wine.
Ingredients – The ham prepared from the Pig’s back leg and salt is slowly cooked at a high temperature.
Where to find them – Culatelleria, Antica Osteria della Ghiania, and Ristorante La Forchetta in Parma.
7. Pasta Carbonara
Origin – Lazio
This classical Roman dish has a creamy and savory texture that will satisfy your taste buds. No matter which region of the world you are in, this dish will feature on the menu of every Italian restaurant. Many people speculate that this dish was created by the Americans living in Italy after World War II.
Ingredients – Spaghetti, eggs, pecorino romano, cheese, cured pork cheeks, black pepper, and guano chili.
Where to find them – Antica Pesa in Trastevere, Armando al Pantheon in Rome, Da Enzo al 29 in Trastevere.
8. Pizza Margherita
Origin – Naples
Originating in 1889, a Naples pizza maker prepared this dish with six simple ingredients representing the Italian Flag to honor the queen, Margherita of Savoy, when she visited Naples. The queen was so impressed with the dish that she named it after her.
Ingredients – Pizza flour, Red tomatoes, green basil, white mozzarella cheese, olive oil, and salt.
Where to find them – Legendary pizzeria centers in Naples are L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele, Pizzeria Concettina ai Tre Santi, and Gino Sorbillo.
9. Risotto All Milanese
Origin – Milan
This creamy and luxurious dish features a rich and gorgeous golden color that should be enjoyed immediately when hot. It is best paired with a glass of dry white wine. The Saffron leaves a yellow imprint on the dish. You can combine it with the meat of your choice.
Ingredients – Arborio rice, saffron butter, onion, white wine, and Parmesan cheese.
Where to find them – Trattoria Masuelli San Marco, Ratana, Ristoranto Dulcisinfundo in San Gimignano.
10. Tiramisu
Origin – Treviso
This beloved Italian dessert has become a hearty comfort food for the locals who like to end their meals with a creamy and rich indulgence. This dessert has gained popularity all over the world. It is enjoyed best when refrigerated overnight or for at least 4 hours.
Ingredients – Coffee-soaked lady fingers, mascarpone cheese, cocoa powder, a hint of liqueur.
Where to find them – Antica Pasticceria Nascimben in Reviso, L’lle Douce in Milan, and Pirona 1900 in Trieste.