Photo: Antonio Gravante/Shutterstock

6 Must-Try Restaurants to Visit on Your Next Trip to Italy for a True Taste of the Cuisine

Italy Wine Restaurants + Bars Food + Drink
by Matador Creators Jun 21, 2023

Food and drink in Italy are a celebration of taste, tradition, and the art of indulgence. Renowned worldwide, Italian cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of regional specialties and iconic dishes that have become culinary icons. From the aromatic flavors of freshly made pasta to the exquisite simplicity of a Neapolitan pizza, Italian food captivates the senses. Alongside the incredible cuisine, Italy is equally famous for its diverse selection of wines, from the full-bodied reds of Tuscany to the sparkling prosecco of Veneto. Whether exploring local trattorias or fine dining establishments, embracing the food and drink in Italy is a journey of pleasure, where every meal becomes a moment to savor the country’s culinary heritage. These restaurants will help you experience the best of the best.

Lido 84

@foodwtf Cacio e pepe #pasta cooked al dente inside a pig’s bladder with pecorino cheese, salt, pepper and water📍#Lido84 in #LakeGarda #Italy 🎥 IG: @jokuti #michelinstar #michelinrestaurant #pastatok ♬ Dolce Nonna – Wayne Jones & Amy Hayashi-Jones

The famous Italian restaurant Lido 84 is renowned for its cacio e pepe. Chef Riccardo Camanini put a twist on this classic pasta dish by combining various cheeses, including pecorino and parmesan, with a blend of spices and black pepper. The preparation involves using hand-rolled spaghetti cooked al dente, and the cheese mixture creates a rich and creamy sauce. Lido 84 prides itself on sourcing local and seasonal ingredients, reflecting the flavors of Lake Garda, where the restaurant is located.

Lido 84’s cacio e pepe dish has gained popularity for its innovative approach and commitment to quality ingredients. The chef and his team personally visit local farmers and fishermen to select fresh produce and seafood. This emphasis on local sourcing allows the restaurant to showcase the vibrant flavors of the region. Lido 84’s cacio e pepe highlights its dedication to using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients.

Lido 84: Corso Giuseppe Zanardelli, 196, 25083 Gardone Riviera BS, Italy

Alfredo alla Scrofa

@matadornetwork For many, one dish instantly pops to mind at the mention of Italian-American cuisine: fettuccine alfredo. Discover the real taste of Italy with this delicious and authentic fettuccine alfredo from Alfredo Alla Scrofa in Rome, Italy 🇮🇹 Share this with the person you’d want to try this mouthwatering Italian dish with 🤤 🎥 IG: @yolandaedwards 📍 Alfredo Alla Scrofa in Rome, Italy #pastatok #italianfoods #fettuccinealfredo #pastaoftheday #foodietok ♬ original sound – Matador | Travel + Adventure

Located in Rome, the iconic Roman restaurant Alfredo alla Scrofa has a rich history dating back to 1907 when Alfredo di Lelio created the recipe for Fettuccine Alfredo. The dish consists of fresh fettuccine pasta coated in a creamy sauce made from butter and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.

Alfredo alla Scrofa has become a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking an authentic taste of this classic Italian dish. The restaurant takes pride in preserving the original recipe and preparing the dish tableside, ensuring a theatrical and traditional dining experience. The restaurant’s commitment to using high-quality ingredients and maintaining the legacy of Alfredo di Lelio makes it a must-visit spot for fettuccine Alfredo enthusiasts in Rome.

Alfredo alla Scrofa: Via della Scrofa, 104/a, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
Il Vero Alfredo:: Piazza Augusto Imperatore, 30, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

Wine Windows tasting tours

@foodwtf A must-do experience while in #Florence is ordering a glass of wine from the famous wine window 🍷📍Buchette del vino 🎥 @Italy_alfresco #italytravel #foodie #winelovers #foodtiktok ♬ Dolce Nonna – Wayne Jones & Amy Hayashi-Jones

Explore the fascinating history of wine windows in Florence, which date back centuries and are now a unique way to wine taste in the city. Wine windows, known as buchette del vino in Italian, were originally created during the Plague years as a means for wine producers to sell their wine directly to customers while maintaining a healthy distance. These small, wooden windows were installed in the walls of buildings, allowing customers to purchase wine without entering the premises.

In recent years, the tradition of wine windows has seen a revival in Florence, and several establishments have reintroduced them as a way to serve wine to customers. Wine lovers can now embark on a self-guided wine window tour through the city, stopping at various historic locations to sample different wines. This tasting experience offers a glimpse into Florence’s rich cultural heritage and allows visitors to connect with the city’s past while enjoying its vibrant present-day wine scene.

Mr. 100 Tiramisu

@foodwtf Did you know this spot in 📍#Rome #Italy has 100 flavors of tiramisu🤯 Check out #Mr100Tiramisu for the ultimate experience⭐ Save this post for your trip to Rome❤️ 🎥 @Kerry Ireland | Biz & Travel #visititaly #visitrome #italia #wheninrome #foodietiktok #foodietok ♬ I Love You – D' RORI

Mr 100 Tiramisu is a well loved tiramisu shop in Rome. As the name suggests, it’s known for its exceptional variety and quality of tiramisu. With a name inspired by its impressive menu boasting over 100 different flavors, this establishment has become a go-to destination for tiramisu enthusiasts worldwide. The shop offers a wide range of traditional and innovative flavors, catering to diverse palates and dietary preferences.

At Mr 100 Tiramisu, customers can indulge in classic tiramisu variations like the traditional coffee-flavored recipe and explore unique and creative twists on this beloved Italian dessert. From fruity combinations like strawberry or lemon tiramisu to indulgent options such as Nutella or caramel, there is something to satisfy everyone. The shop prides itself on using high-quality ingredients and maintaining the authenticity of the dessert, ensuring that each bite delivers a rich and creamy experience.

Mr 100 Tiramisu: Via dei Sediari, 11/12, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

All’Antico Vinaio

@foodwtf This sandwich shop is known for having the best #paninis in #Florence 📍All’Antico Vinaio 🎥 @Shirene #Italy #foodtravel #foodie #italianfood #paninitok ♬ L'italiano – I Mandolini Italiani

All’Antico Vinaio is a well-loved restaurant located in Florence (with another location in Rome). It has gained a reputation as a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts and tourists alike. The restaurant is best known for its exceptional sandwiches, which are generously filled with high-quality ingredients and bursting with flavors. All’Antico Vinaio has long-standing history dates back to 1989 when the shop opened its doors.

Visitors to All’Antico Vinaio are greeted by various ingredients and toppings, including various cured meats, cheeses, vegetables, and spreads. The sandwiches are prepared to order, allowing customers to customize their selections based on personal preferences. The generous portions and flavorful combinations have made these sandwiches a favorite among locals and tourists, resulting in long lines of eager patrons waiting to savor the culinary delights.

Florence: Via dei Neri, 65r, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
Rome: Piazza della Maddalena, 3, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

The Angel Roofbar

@foodwtf 📍Angel Roofbar in #Florence #Italy serves up giganic #aperolspritz cocktails 😲 🎥 @Stella Bossi #florencefoodguide #foodietravel #foodtravel #aperol #cocktailtok ♬ Strut – Kyle Walker

The Hotel Calimala Angel Roofbar is an exquisite and vibrant destination located in Florence, Italy. The rooftop bar offers visitors a remarkable experience with stunning panoramic views of the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Duomo and Palazzo Vecchio. This sophisticated venue, situated atop the Hotel Calimala, provides an ideal setting to relax and enjoy the beauty of Florence.

The Angel Roofbar at Hotel Calimala hosts a restaurant, two indoor and outdoor bar areas, a plunge pool, and a beautiful floral garden patio fashioned by Vieri Torrigiani of the Torrigiani Family. The chic atmosphere is complemented by stylish furniture and a well-curated selection of beverages, including a range of cocktails, wines, and spirits. Guests can unwind in plush seating areas while savoring their drinks, immersing themselves in the vibrant ambiance of the bar.

Where: Via Calimala, 2, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy

Discover Matador