Must-Try Italian Foods for Travelers

If you’ve set aside time to visit Italy this year and you’re not planning to go on at least some kind of food tour, then you’ll be missing out hugely. Italy is one of the most prominent nations in the world when it comes to cuisine; they’re matched only by France in terms of culinary reputation, and the number of staple dishes that were originally invented in Italy is staggering. With that said, there are certain foods that you absolutely must experience if you decide to visit Italy. Here are some of the best Italian dishes that you should seek out if you’re travelling there soon.

Focaccia

If you’ve yet to try focaccia, then you absolutely must try it in Italy. This delicious flatbread is made using olive oil and seasoned with salt.

The right kind of focaccia has just about enough give to bounce back when you push down.
It’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

Originally, focaccia was made in north-western Italy, but it’s managed to work its way down and across the country, winning the hearts of Italians and the rest of the world as it went.

Tiramisu

This incredible Italian dessert is made using a layer of biscuits dipped in liqueur wine and coffee, as well as cream and cocoa.

When made right, it’s light and fluffy, yet indulgent.
Eating a great tiramisu somehow feels both grown-up and childlike, a return to eating “forbidden” desserts that contained just a touch of alcohol.

Fun fact: the word “tiramisu” derives from “tireme su”, a phrase used in Treviso in the 19th century.