Italy

Contrary to popular belief, there is really no such thing as a national “Italian food”. Rather, what Italy offers is a variety of foods with distinct regional influences. Our travels through Italy have allowed us to sample foods from Piedmont to Puglia, and many points in between. Join us for a culinary journey through some of Italy’s most famous foods.

“They eat the dainty food of famous chefs with the same pleasure with which they devour gross peasant dishes, mostly composed of garlic and tomatoes, or fisherman’s octopus and shrimps, fried in heavily scented olive oil on a little deserted beach.”
-Luigi Barzini, Author of The Italians (1964)

Our Favourites

Each of these restaurants holds a special place in our hearts. Often, it’s more than just the food itself. It’s the richness of culture, the wonderful people behind the scenes, the way a spot makes us feel at home.

Antica Cantina

Recommended to us by a foodie friend in Bologna, this spot lived up to the hype and then some. Great pasta and roast pork shank, but the real star? The Pear Carpaccio – trust us on this!

La Bottega – San Gimignano

If you get away from the heavily touristed part of San Gimignano you’ll find this gem. A favourite amongst locals, pilgrims and backpackers in-the-know they rock the food and the service!

Osteria Pinchiorba

We’re infatuated with this hidden gem in the small town of Gambassi Terme. Imaginative, delicious food – gnudi, fried pecorino, duck carpaccio – and super chill vibe. Find it and just go!

Osteria La Sosta Violante

The Fiorentina steak here is famous for a reason. But don’t miss their pici with pork ragu or their Paccheri with Tuscan bacon, onion and ewe’s cheese. Or their . . . you get the picture!

Il Richiastro

This brilliant restaurant in Viterbo’s Old town is easy to miss. We were drawn through a portico into a courtyard by fabulous aromas. The food here is off-the-charts. Find it and enjoy!.

Trattoria La Lanterna

This family run trattoria came highly recommended by a local. Generous antipasti portions, and absolutely gorgeous pastas – easily in the top five of any pasta we’ve had anywhere.

Relive our travels in Italy

Our First Trip To Italy

Adventures from Ivrea to Piacenza

Exploring from Piacenza to Cassio

Italy From Berceto to Lucca

Travels from Lucca to Monteriggioni

Discovering Siena to Orvieto

Italy from Lazioto Rome

Other Great Spots:

We have eaten at each of these places, and genuinely loved our experience!

Bologna

Ragū

This very casual hole-in-the-wall has a playfully confident vibe that matches the unique, antique space perfectly. They serve delightful fresh pasta dishes and superb local wines. Seek them out when you’re in Bologna – you won’t regret it.

Il Forno di Calzolari

This Bologna institution has a number of locations serving amazing breads, savoury foods and baked treats. Friendly staff and outstanding food make this a go-to for locals.

Salumeria Simoni Laboratorio

Just amazing. Ask your waiter to help you put together a salumi platter of meats and cheeses. Get wine. Experience unadulterated food joy. Get more wine. Relax!

Osteria del Sole

Take the time to find this Bologna institution. They’ve been in continuous operation since the 1400’s, and specialize in local wine and charming, welcoming atmosphere. Bring your own salumi plate, settle in and enjoy!

Eataly Bologna Ambasciatori

A lovely spot for a light lunch. Tasty sandwiches and desserts, and of course delicious coffee. An attached bookshop and upstairs grocer make for great pre- or post-lunch browsing.

Osteria Solferino

A delightful osteria with friendly service and fabulous food. They’re well-known for respecting traditional Bolognese culinary traditions while adding imaginative twists on old classics. Well worth a visit.

Rome

Small Villages and Towns:

Places we found while walking the Via Francigena.

Albergo della Torre

A wee bit out of the way this place is well worth seeking out. Italian classics with inventive twists and excellent service make this an excellent value-for-money choice. Don’t leave without ordering the Pistachio Soufflé. Thank us later.

Mathis

Well regarded local restaurant associated with the hotel of the same name. These folks rock game dishes served with inexpensive but delicious local wines. And they make a mean, gigantic negroni. It all just works!

Beef Corner

Beef Corner specializes in grilled beef and serves up some unique and delicious fried potatoes. High quality meats done right, and a decent selection of wines, keeps people coming back.

Pizzeria Hosteria Pizzeria Salti Del Diavolo

Another example of stellar food and service in a small Italian town. Superb pizza, great setting and some of the friendliest people you’re likely to meet in Italy. Don’t miss this place if you’re in the neighbourhood.

Pasquinelli

This spot is justifiably famous with locals, and well worth a visit. Their dishes are imaginative and well-prepared; order the Risotto di Perfumi dell’Orto and thank us later!

Osteria della Corona

A shining example of why you need to explore even the smallest villages in Italy for great food finds. If you find yourself within driving distance of this amazing, family-run Osteria get yourself there with all due haste. You’ll be drawn in by the wonderful aromas wafting from the kitchen, and are almost guaranteed great conversation with the locals. Have the famous ragu – so good we forgot to take pictures! Thank us later!

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Our Favourite Foodie Resources

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