Must-try Dishes
Fried Pumpkin Blossoms - Fiori di Zucca (crispy flower snack) - Delicate zucchini flowers stuffed with ricotta, lightly battered, and fried until golden. Locals often enjoy these as an appetizer or street food while strolling at local markets.
Polenta with Horse Meat - Polenta e Lesso di Cavallo (hearty stew) - Creamy polenta served alongside tender horse meat simmered in a rich broth. A popular dish at rustic trattorias, it's best enjoyed during a cozy dinner with close friends.
Bigoli with Duck Sauce - Bigoli in Salsa (pasta specialty) - Thick, hand-rolled whole wheat pasta tossed in a savory sauce made from duck, onions, and anchovies. Many locals savor this dish during family gatherings, especially on Sundays.
Verona Style Risotto - Risotto all'Amarone (luxurious rice dish) - Creamy risotto cooked with Amarone wine, giving it a rich, deep flavor, and topped with locally sourced cheese. Often served at festive celebrations, it pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables.
Grilled Sardines - Sarde in Saor (seafood dish) - Marinated sardines grilled to perfection and served with a sweet-sour onion sauce. This dish embodies a surprising combination of flavors and is traditionally enjoyed during outdoor summer feasts.
Chickpea Purée - Purè di Ceci (simple yet filling) - Whipped chickpeas seasoned with garlic and olive oil, often served as a spread or dip. Locals enjoy this during breakfast with fresh bread, especially on chilly mornings.
Fried Rice Balls - Arancini di Riso (street food delight) - Crispy rice balls stuffed with a variety of fillings, including meat, herbs, or cheese. These are commonly eaten as a quick lunch option on the go, particularly at local food stalls.
Seasonal Pumpkin Risotto - Risotto alla Zucca (autumn warmth) - Silky risotto made with fresh pumpkin and saffron, showcasing seasonal ingredients. Available in fall, it’s a beloved dish that invites cozy conversations during family dinners.
Desserts & Drinks
Caffe Macchiato - Caffè Macchiato (spotted coffee) - A bold espresso "stained" with a dollop of steamed milk foam. It's a favorite pick-me-up for locals in the late morning, enjoyed standing at the bar, and you’ll notice everyone sipping it confidently before heading back to work.
Aperol Spritz - Spritz (refreshing cocktail) - A trendy mix of Aperol, Prosecco, and a splash of soda, garnished with an orange slice. This vibrant drink is often enjoyed during "aperitivo" hour on warm evenings, where locals gather to chat and unwind; try it on a terrace for that picturesque Verona vibe.
Tiramisu - Tiramisu (coffee-soaked dessert) - Luscious layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream topped with cocoa powder. It’s a classic celebration dessert found at birthday parties, where homemade variations vary in flavors; locals always prefer rich coffee in the mix.
Gelato al Limone - Gelato al Limone (lemon gelato) - Creamy and zesty gelato made with fresh local lemons, perfect for a scorching summer day. Commonly found near bustling piazzas, this frozen treat is often enjoyed while strolling around; many locals swear by it being the ultimate refresher after a hearty meal.
Panettone - Panettone (rich fruit cake) - A fluffy and sweet bread loaf packed with candied fruits and a hint of citrus, typically savored during Christmas celebrations. Locals often share it during festive gatherings, and you'll find it in homes well into January, with a slice paired with dessert wine to enhance the flavors.
