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Italian Food & Drinks: Must-Try Dishes in Italy

Italy is a country renowned for its rich culinary heritage, offering a delightful array of flavors that capture the essence of each region. Whether you're enjoying a hearty meal in Tuscany or savoring fresh seafood on the Amalfi Coast, Italy's food culture is second to none. Here’s a guide to the food to try in Italy, with some of the top 10 Italian dishes you must sample during your visit. From iconic pastas to delightful desserts, these dishes are a must for any food lover.

Last updated: 10.06.2025

1. Pizza Margherita

Pizza Margherita
Arguably one of the most popular foods in Italy, Pizza Margherita is the perfect representation of Italian cuisine. Its simple yet delicious ingredients – fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil – are transformed into a perfectly balanced and incredibly flavorful pie. Originating from Naples in the late 1800s, this pizza’s vibrant red, white, and green colors symbolize the Italian flag. Enjoying this dish in its birthplace, with the wood-fired crust and fresh toppings, is an experience not to be missed.
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2. Pasta Carbonara

Pasta Carbonara
One of the famous foods in Italy, Pasta Carbonara is a rich and creamy Roman classic that has earned its place as a beloved comfort food. Made with eggs, pecorino cheese, guanciale (cured pork cheek), and black pepper, this dish has a perfect balance of creamy, salty, and savory flavors. While versions of Carbonara are found around the world, nothing compares to the authenticity of the Roman original, where it is served piping hot and enjoyed as a hearty meal at any trattoria in the Eternal City. The combination of the crispy guanciale, rich sauce, and al dente pasta creates a dish that is both indulgent and comforting. Often paired with a glass of local white wine, it’s the perfect meal for a leisurely lunch or dinner in Rome’s charming cobblestone streets.
  • Interesting Fact:
    Did you know that Italy has over 400 types of pasta?
    Each region has its own unique varieties, shaped and served with local sauces and ingredients. For instance, in Naples, you’ll find pasta shaped like small shells called cavatelli, while in Sicily, busiati pasta is made with a special tool and typically paired with pesto.

3. Risotto alla Milanese

Risotto alla Milanese
Known for its creamy texture and golden hue, Risotto alla Milanese is a top dish to eat in Italy that shines with the rich flavor of saffron. This traditional dish hails from Milan, where it is often served with osso buco (braised veal shanks), creating a melt-in-your-mouth combination that is both luxurious and comforting. The subtle, fragrant saffron flavor gives the rice a vibrant golden color, making it as beautiful as it is delicious. Risotto alla Milanese is the epitome of Northern Italian cuisine and should not be missed. Its creamy consistency and the delicate saffron aroma are perfect complements to the tender, slow-cooked veal. Whether enjoyed as a standalone dish or paired with other Italian specialties, this dish is a true celebration of Milan’s culinary heritage. Often accompanied by a glass of rich red wine, it promises a refined yet hearty dining experience that leaves a lasting impression.

4. Lasagna

Lasagna
A classic what to eat in Italy, Lasagna is a crowd-pleaser that offers layers of pasta, meat sauce, béchamel, and cheese, all baked to perfection. The dish is rich, hearty, and incredibly satisfying, originating from the Emilia-Romagna region but enjoyed throughout Italy. Each region may have its own version, whether with ragù or a vegetable filling, but the core ingredients remain the same. It’s a dish that brings family and friends together, perfect for a cozy meal. Lasagna is often served during festive occasions or family gatherings, where its layers of flavors and textures are sure to please everyone at the table. The combination of savory meat, creamy béchamel, and melted cheese creates a comfort food experience unlike any other. Whether enjoyed in a rustic trattoria or homemade in an Italian kitchen, Lasagna remains a timeless favorite that captures the essence of Italian culinary tradition.

5. Ossobuco

Ossobuco
Ossobuco, meaning "bone with a hole" in Italian, is a tender veal or beef shank braised in white wine, broth, and vegetables. This traditional Milanese dish is often served with a refreshing gremolata (a zesty topping made with lemon zest, garlic, and parsley) and paired with creamy polenta or risotto. The slow-cooking process allows the meat to become incredibly tender and infused with the flavors of the broth. It’s a rustic dish that speaks to the heart of Italian comfort food.
To dive into specifically regional cuisine, check out our Farm-to-Table: Tuscany Tour, where you'll experience authentic Tuscan flavors, visit local farms, and enjoy fresh, seasonal dishes made with ingredients sourced directly from the land.

6. Tiramisu

No trip to Italy would be complete without indulging in a serving of Tiramisu, one of the country’s most iconic desserts. Made from layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, rich mascarpone cheese, and a dusting of cocoa powder, Tiramisu is the ultimate indulgence for
coffee and dessert lovers alike. This layered treat was created in the Veneto region, and it’s now a beloved dessert throughout the world. It’s the perfect way to end a delicious Italian meal, and each bite is a taste of Italy’s sweet tradition.

7. Frittura di Mare

Frittura di Mare
A true treat for seafood lovers, Frittura di Mare is a crispy, golden medley of fried seafood that often includes shrimp, calamari, and small fish. Lightly battered and fried to perfection, this dish is commonly found along Italy’s coastal regions, where the freshest seafood is abundant. It’s typically served as an appetizer or snack, paired with a refreshing glass of white wine. For a taste of Italy’s rich maritime heritage, Frittura di Mare offers an authentic and flavorful experience.

With Firebird Private Tours, you can customize your itinerary to not only visit the destinations you love but also include unique stops to try local specialties and experiences along the way.

8. Arancini

Arancini
Arancini are Sicilian delicacies—golden, deep-fried rice balls filled with a variety of delicious fillings, such as meat sauce, cheese, or vegetables. These crispy treats are perfect as a snack or appetizer and are commonly found in Sicilian street food markets. The rice is often cooked with saffron, giving it a subtle, aromatic flavor, and then rolled into a ball with fillings like ragù, mozzarella, or peas. The balls are deep-fried to crispy perfection, creating a delightful contrast between the crunchy exterior and the soft, flavorful interior. Arancini are not just a quick bite; they represent the essence of Sicilian cooking, capturing the bold and comforting flavors of the island in a simple, satisfying form. Whether served at a local festa, enjoyed as street food, or paired with a glass of local wine, arancini are a must-try for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Sicily.

9. Gelato

Gelato
Italian gelato is often considered superior to regular ice cream, and for good reason. Unlike traditional ice cream, gelato contains less air, making it denser and more flavorful. It comes in a wide variety of flavors, from classic chocolate and vanilla to more adventurous options like pistachio and tiramisu. Gelato is served at a slightly warmer temperature than ice cream, enhancing the taste and providing a smoother texture. Whether you’re strolling through Rome or relaxing on the beaches of Sicily, a scoop of gelato is a perfect treat.
The Best of Sicily and Majestic Sicily tours include the finest experiences the island has to offer, from exploring ancient ruins to savoring authentic local cuisine, ensuring you discover the true essence of Sicily.
  • Interesting fact
    Despite being quite similar, Italian gelato is not the same as ice cream. Authentic gelato is made without any egg yolks and with a higher proportion of milk, giving the heavenly frozen treat a denser texture.

10. Focaccia

Focaccia
A type of flatbread, focaccia is an Italian favorite that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. Traditionally topped with olive oil, salt, and rosemary, it’s a simple yet flavorful bread that embodies the essence of Italian cooking. Variations of focaccia can include additional toppings such as olives, garlic, or even cheese, adding a delightful twist to the classic recipe. Originating from the Liguria region, focaccia is often served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish to accompany meals, especially in the northern regions of Italy. Its light, airy texture combined with a crispy golden crust and fragrant aroma makes it an irresistible part of the Italian bread tradition. Whether dipped in olive oil, paired with a glass of wine, or enjoyed on its own, focaccia offers a comforting and versatile experience that perfectly complements any Italian meal.

Drinks to Pair with Your Meals

No Italian meal is complete without the perfect drink to pair with it. From espresso to fine wines, Italy offers some of the finest beverages that complement the country's cuisine.

  • Espresso: A strong coffee that’s essential to Italian culture, typically enjoyed after a meal.
  • Chianti: A famous Italian red wine, perfect for pairing with meats and pastas.
  • Prosecco: Italy’s beloved sparkling wine, often enjoyed as an aperitif or during celebrations.
  • Limoncello: A refreshing lemon liqueur that’s popular on the Amalfi Coast, perfect for digesting after a big meal.

Italy’s food scene is a journey in itself, with each region offering its own specialties and flavors. Whether you’re enjoying famous food in Italy or exploring the top dishes to eat in Italy, the country is a paradise for food lovers.
Explore more about Italy’s culinary delights with Firebird Tours, and experience firsthand the amazing dishes and drinks that make this country a true gastronomic haven!

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