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If you think Italian food is just pizza and pasta, think again. Italy’s culinary landscape is rich, regional, and full of hidden gems you won’t find on a tourist menu, so here are 20 must-try Italian dishes you’ve never heard of but should try. In this guide, we’ll introduce you to 20 lesser-known Italian dishes that locals love, and travelers often miss.
Why Try Local & Regional Italian Dishes?
Every Italian region has its own food identity. From Ligurian seafood stews to Sicilian street snacks, exploring beyond spaghetti and lasagna opens a world of authentic, unforgettable flavors.
20 Must-Try Italian Dishes You Need to Try
- Pasta alla Gricia – A Roman dish older than carbonara, made with guanciale and Pecorino Romano.
- Panzanella – A Tuscan bread salad perfect for summer.
- Fregola con Arselle – Sardinian pasta balls with clams.
- Crescia – A flaky, layered flatbread from Marche.
- Canederli – Alpine bread dumplings from Trentino-Alto Adige.
- Pasta e Ceci – A rustic chickpea and pasta soup from Lazio.
- Caponata – Sweet and sour eggplant salad from Sicily.
- Torta Pasqualina – A savory spinach and egg pie from Liguria.
- Tajarin al Tartufo – Thin egg noodles with truffle from Piedmont.
- Lampredotto – Florence’s favorite tripe street food.
- Casoncelli – Stuffed pasta from Lombardy, often served with pancetta.
- Sciatt – Fried cheese balls from Valtellina.
- Zuppa Gallurese – Sardinian baked bread soup.
- Bottarga – Salted, cured fish roe, shaved over pasta.
- Arrosticini – Skewered lamb from Abruzzo.
- Piadina – A Romagna-style flatbread, perfect with cheese and prosciutto.
- Stracotto – A long-simmered beef stew from Central Italy.
- Sgombro alla Griglia – Grilled mackerel, simple and flavorful.
- Cacciucco – A hearty Tuscan fish stew.
- Mostarda di Cremona – Candied fruit with mustard syrup, usually served with meats.
✨ Pro Travel Tip
Ask for the “piatto del giorno” (dish of the day) and you might discover local favorites not even listed on the menu.
🌍 Why These 20 Must-Try Italian Dishes Deserve a Spot on Your Food Bucket List
Italy is a food lover’s paradise, and there’s so much more to it than the dishes you already know. That’s what makes this list of 20 must-try Italian dishes so exciting, it’s a mix of regional treasures, time-honored family recipes, and truly local favorites that rarely make it into tourist menus. These aren’t just meals; they’re stories served on a plate.
Each region in Italy takes immense pride in its culinary traditions. From the alpine cheeses of the north to the sun-drenched seafood dishes of the south, the variety is endless, and that’s exactly what this list celebrates. You’ll find dishes that have been passed down for generations, each one reflecting the land, history, and soul of its region.
What’s even better? Trying these lesser-known dishes gives you a real edge when traveling. Knowing what to order, and how to pronounce it, helps you stand out as a respectful and curious traveler. Locals appreciate when visitors go beyond the obvious and show a genuine interest in their culture.
Whether you’re planning your next Italian getaway or simply looking to expand your cooking at home, these 20 dishes are your entry point into the heart of Italian cuisine. Bookmark this list, save it for your next trip, or use it to impress friends at your next dinner party.
Planning your Italian adventure? For comprehensive travel information, regional highlights, and cultural insights, visit the official Italian tourism website: Italia.it. It’s a valuable resource for discovering authentic experiences across Italy.
You can also view our two related blog
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💶 How Much Does It Cost to Eat Out in Italy?
Eating out in Italy can be surprisingly affordable, especially if you know where to go. On average:
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A casual meal at a trattoria or osteria will cost around €10–€20 per person, including water and a house wine.
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Mid-range restaurants typically range from €25–€40 per person for a full three-course meal.
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A quick bite like pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice) or a panino costs just €3–€6, making it perfect for budget travelers.
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At more touristy spots or higher-end restaurants, prices can go up to €50–€70 per person.
Tipping isn’t expected, but it’s common to leave a small amount if the service was great. Also, many restaurants include a small “coperto” (cover charge) on the bill, usually €1–€3 per person.
🍽️ Typical Meal Costs in Italy – At a Glance
| Type of Meal | What You Get | Approx. Cost (Per Person) |
|---|---|---|
| 🍕 Street Food / Quick Bites | Pizza slice, panino, espresso | €3 – €6 |
| 🍝 Casual Trattoria Meal | Pasta + water or wine | €10 – €20 |
| 🧀 Mid-Range Restaurant | Starter + main + dessert + drink | €25 – €40 |
| 🍷 High-End Dining | Full course with wine, fine ingredients | €50 – €70+ |
| 🧾 Coperto (Cover Charge) | Bread, table setting (often included) | €1 – €3 |
📝 Tip: No need to over-tip! Leaving a euro or two is appreciated, but not expected.
🇮🇹 More Italian Tips and Adventures You’ll Love
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