A Food Lover’s Guide to Italy

Bologna

Bologna is a feast for the senses, blending its rich culinary heritage with the charm of its red-arcaded architecture and vibrant academic atmosphere. Known as the gastronomic capital of Italy, the city beckons food lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike with its inviting market stalls, traditional recipes, and immersive culinary experiences. The market stalls blossoming with fresh figs, squash blossoms and thick, hearty ragu sauce — “Bolognese,” as the locals call it — paired with the beautiful red-arcaded archways and collegiate vibes make Bologna both an intriguing and memorable destination. More of Bologna’s culinary history lies in the Mercato di Mezzo, a vast collection of fresh produce, cheese shops, a wine bar and more.

Tuscany

Tuscany is a paradise for food lovers, where simple, high-quality ingredients come together to create dishes that are both comforting and elegant. Rooted in tradition and seasonality, the cuisine reflects the region's rolling hills, vineyards, olive groves, and artisanal craftsmanship. The coast, with its abundance of fresh seafood, provides a delightful contrast to the more typical meat-based dishes inland. In the coastal villages of Tuscany, traditional recipes enhance the daily catch, creating dishes that capture the essence of the sea. Signature dishes like 'Cacciucco,' a rich seafood stew, embody the area's historical maritime culture, showing that the culture and culinary appeal of this region extend far beyond its vineyards and rolling hills.

Rome

Rome’s food culture is as rich and varied as its history. The city’s culinary scene is deeply rooted in tradition, with an emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients and simple, yet bold flavors. Rome’s dining scene offers something for everyone, from traditional trattorias serving comforting classics to fine dining restaurants that push the boundaries of Italian cuisine. Find big bowls of cacio e pepe, a rich pasta made with cracked pepper and parmesan and supplì, a crispy giant breaded croquette filled with rice, mozzarella and meat sauce.

Sicily

Sicilian cuisine is known for its harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors. Dishes like pasta with sardines and raisins, or desserts like cannoli filled with sweet ricotta cheese and candied fruit showcase this delightful contrast. Arancini are deep-fried rice balls typically filled with ragù (meat sauce), mozzarella, and peas. Arancini come in various sizes and shapes and are a beloved Sicilian street food. Cannoli are Sicilian pastries made of a crispy tube-shaped shell filled with sweet ricotta cheese filling.