What to Eat in Italy: Dishes Every Visitor Should Try
Updated 2026-10-16. Written with AI assistance and checked against our editorial rules; entry rules and prices change, so confirm with the official source before you travel.
When it comes to deciding what to eat in Italy, you're spoiled for choice with a rich culinary heritage. From classic pasta dishes to wood-fired pizzas, there's something for every palate. Start by exploring the authentic eateries and markets of Rome.
Quick answer: dishes to try in Italy
When exploring Italian cuisine, you'll want to indulge in these must-try dishes that showcase the country's rich culinary heritage.
Classic combinations
You can't go wrong with timeless favorites like pasta alla carbonara, spaghetti aglio e olio, and fettuccine Alfredo. These comforting dishes are staples of Italian cooking, often featuring fresh ingredients and simple yet effective flavor profiles.
- Try them in cozy trattorias or family-run restaurants for an authentic experience.
- Don't be afraid to ask your server for recommendations – they'll know the best local spots to try these classic combinations.
Regional specialties
Italy is renowned for its diverse regional cuisines, each with its unique flavors and techniques. Be sure to sample dishes like risotto alla milanese from Lombardy or arancini from Sicily. These regional specialties will give you a deeper understanding of Italy's rich gastronomic landscape.
- Visit bustling markets or street food stalls to taste these local delicacies.
- Don't miss the opportunity to try them in their original regions, where traditions and techniques have been passed down through generations.
Must-try dishes
Classic Italian Breakfasts
Start your day with a traditional Italian breakfast, which often includes cornetto (similar to croissants) or bomboloni (doughnuts), accompanied by a strong espresso or cappuccino. You might also come across panettone, a sweet bread typically enjoyed during the Christmas season.
Lunchtime Favorites
For lunch, locals often head to markets or street food stalls for a quick and delicious meal. Try a panino (sandwich) filled with fresh vegetables, meats, or cheeses, or sample some supplì (fried risotto balls filled with mozzarella). Don't forget to check out the Best Places to Travel in October: Where to Go and Why for more culinary adventures.
- Try a classic Italian panino with cured meats, cheeses, and vegetables
- Sample supplì, crispy fried risotto balls filled with melted mozzarella
- Visit local markets or street food stalls for fresh and authentic meals
Pizza Romana
Enjoy this classic Roman-style pizza at its best by learning when and where to indulge.
When to Enjoy
Pizzeria Romana is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. You'll find it on menus throughout Rome, especially during lunchtime and early evening hours (around 12:30-2:30 PM and 7:00-9:00 PM).
Where to Find It
Look for traditional Roman pizzerias in central neighborhoods like Trastevere, Monti, or Testaccio. These areas are steeped in history and offer a true taste of local culture.
- Try it at street food markets like Campo de' Fiori or Piazza Navona during peak hours (usually between 12:00-3:00 PM).
- Visit popular pizzerias with outdoor seating, such as those on Via del Corso or near the Pantheon.
- Join locals for a quick lunch at family-run eateries in residential areas like Ostiense or San Lorenzo.
Risotto alla Milanese
This iconic creamy rice dish is a staple of Milanese cuisine and a must-try when visiting Italy. Learn about the rich flavors and textures that make it a beloved favorite among locals.
Risotto alla Milanese typically starts with saffron-infused Arborio rice, cooked in a flavorful broth made from beef or veal stock. The dish is then enriched with butter and Parmesan cheese, giving it a creamy texture and nutty flavor. This comforting meal is often served as a main course, accompanied by roasted meats or vegetables.
Traditional Pairings
- Roasted ossobuco (braised veal shanks)
- Grilled chicken or beef
- Steamed broccoli or asparagus
- Sliced prosciutto or mortadella
When trying Risotto alla Milanese at local trattorias or restaurants, be sure to follow the locals' lead and enjoy it with a glass of fine Italian wine. For more dining tips and recommendations, Compare Travel Sites: A Guide to Finding Your Perfect Match
Spaghetti Carbonara
Get the lowdown on this rich and indulgent pasta dish from Rome.
Origins of a Classic
Spaghetti Carbonara is a beloved Italian staple that originated in Rome. This creamy, eggy pasta dish has been perfected over time by locals and visitors alike. You'll often find it served at trattorias and family-run restaurants throughout the city.
What to Expect
When you order Spaghetti Carbonara, you can expect tender spaghetti tossed with crispy pancetta or bacon, rich eggs, and a generous helping of grated Parmesan cheese. The dish is typically served hot, straight from the kitchen.
- Look for authentic recipes that use guanciale (Italian cured pork jowl) instead of pancetta for an added depth of flavor.
- Don't be surprised if your server recommends pairing Carbonara with a glass of Chianti or other medium-bodied red wine.
- For a more filling meal, ask for a side of garlic bread or roasted vegetables to round out the dish.
Arancini
These Sicilian-style stuffed rice balls are a popular snack or meal in Italy. You'll find them at street food stalls, markets, and home-style restaurants.
What's inside?
Arancini are essentially risotto cakes filled with a mix of ingredients like meat ragù, mozzarella cheese, peas, and sometimes even anchovies. The combination might sound unusual, but it's a match made in heaven!
- Look for arancini at street food stalls or markets, where they're often served as a quick bite.
- Try them as an appetizer or snack at home-style restaurants, which may offer a variety of fillings.
- Don't be afraid to customize your order by asking for specific ingredients or no anchovies if you prefer!
- Things to Do in Japan: A First-Timer's List
Supplì
Discovering Roman Street Food
When exploring Rome's culinary scene, you shouldn't miss the opportunity to try supplì – crispy fried risotto balls filled with melted mozzarella cheese. This popular street food is a staple in Roman cuisine and can be found at various markets and food stalls throughout the city.
Where to Find Supplì
Supplì is typically sold by vendors or at casual eateries, often near popular tourist attractions or in bustling marketplaces. You might stumble upon it at Campo de' Fiori, Piazza Navona, or around the Colosseum. Keep an eye out for street food stalls with a sign reading "Supplì" or look for vendors serving fried treats.
How to Enjoy Supplì
- Try supplì as a snack while exploring Rome's historic center.
- Pair it with a glass of wine or a cold beer for a satisfying afternoon treat.
- Don't be afraid to get your hands dirty and enjoy the gooey mozzarella filling!
Frequently asked questions
What are some must-try dishes in Italy?
Indulge in classic pasta dishes like carbonara and fettuccine Alfredo, or try regional specialties like risotto alla milanese from Lombardy.
What should I eat for breakfast in Italy?
Start your day with a traditional Italian breakfast featuring cornetto, bomboloni, and a strong espresso or cappuccino.
Where can I find authentic Italian food?
Explore cozy trattorias, family-run restaurants, bustling markets, and street food stalls for an authentic culinary experience.
What are some popular Italian snacks?
Try panini filled with fresh vegetables, meats, or cheeses, or sample supplì, fried risotto balls filled with mozzarella.
Can I find healthy options to eat in Italy?
Yes, you can find plenty of fresh vegetable and fruit-based dishes, as well as lighter pasta options and seafood choices.
What are some unique Italian desserts to try?
Indulge in sweet treats like panettone, a sweet bread typically enjoyed during the Christmas season, or sample gelato for a creamy dessert experience.
Plan the trip: browse all destinations, check the visa checker or work out a trip budget.