10 Things to Eat in Parma And Where

Tucked away in the heart of Emilia Romagna, Parma is a city that wears its culinary crown with pride. As the second largest city in the region, Parma boasts an ancient gastronomic tradition that has earned it the coveted title of UNESCO Creative City for Gastronomy. From the world-renowned Parmesan cheese to the cured meats that have made Italy famous, Parma’s cuisine is a masterclass in simplicity and flavor.

In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through Parma, exploring its most iconic dishes, traditional restaurants, and local specialties. Whether you’re a foodie, a travel enthusiast, or simply looking for inspiration to try something new, Parma has something to offer everyone.

Appetizers: Fried Delights and Dumplings

No Italian meal is complete without an antipasto course, and in Parma, we have two must-try starters that will awaken your taste buds: fried cake (fritto misto) and fried dumpling (fried pie or fried dumpling).

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• Fried Cake (Fritto Misto): This simple yet delicious appetizer consists of a dough made from white flour, lard, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and water, which is then fried to perfection. Typically served with cured meats like Parma ham or culatello, it’s the perfect way to start your meal.
• Fried Dumpling (Polenta Fritta): A delicious twist on the classic risotto ball, fried dumplings are a staple of Parman cuisine. Made from a mixture of polenta and Parmesan cheese, they’re then deep-fried to crispy perfection.

First Courses: Pasta Perfection

When it comes to pasta in Parma, we’re spoiled for choice with an array of traditional dishes that showcase the region’s love for this beloved staple.

• Tagliolini con Culatello: This classic first course features tagliolini (thin, flat pasta) served with culatello di Zibello DOP, a cured meat from Parma known as the “King of Cured Meats.” The dish is cooked in butter and sage, then finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
• Tortelli d’Anolini: These stuffed egg pasta are a specialty of the Anolini region and typically filled with beef stew, Parmigiano Reggiano, and spices. Served in broth or with butter and sage, they’re an unforgettable experience.

Second Courses: Rich and Flavorful

When it comes to second courses, Parma delivers big on flavor and texture. Here are a few must-try dishes that showcase the region’s love for hearty, satisfying meals:

• Caval Post: This traditional dish features horse meat minced and served raw with garlic, oil, and lemon.
• Rice Bomb (Bomba di Riso): A classic peasant dish from the Apennines, rice bombs are a staple of Emilia Romagna cuisine. Typically made with various meats, including pigeon (now mostly replaced by beef or sausage), they’re cooked in a flavorful broth.

Desserts: Sweet Treats

No Italian meal is complete without a sweet treat to finish off the evening. Here are a few must-try desserts that showcase Parma’s love for delicious pastries and cakes:

• Sbrisolata (Three Cup Cakes): This classic dessert from northern Italy consists of three small cakes made with white and yellow flour, sugar, almonds, and eggs. Typically served with grappa or coffee, it’s the perfect way to round off your meal.
• Pizzelle: These thin waffle cookies are a specialty of Parma and typically flavored with anise seeds and vanilla.

Where to Eat in Parma

From traditional trattorias to modern restaurants, Parma has a wealth of dining options to suit every taste and budget. Here are some of our top recommendations for where to eat in Parma:

1. Couriers Restaurant: A classic trattoria in the historic center, Couriers specializes in traditional Emilian cuisine.
2. Sisters Peaks: Located in the heart of Parma, Sisters Peaks offers a range of traditional dishes and innovative twists on local favorites.
3. The Fork: This elegant restaurant near the cathedral serves up modern takes on traditional dishes with a focus on seasonal ingredients.

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Traditional Restaurants

Parma is home to many traditional restaurants that offer authentic experiences for visitors. Here are a few recommendations:

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1. Trattoria of the Court: Located in the historic center, Trattoria of the Court specializes in traditional Emilian cuisine and offers an impressive wine list.
2. Osteria dell’Orsa: This cozy osteria is known for its delicious pasta dishes and traditional meat recipes.
3. La Corte: Located near the cathedral, La Corte serves up modern takes on traditional dishes with a focus on seasonal ingredients.

Modern Restaurants

For those looking to try something new, Parma has plenty of modern restaurants that offer innovative twists on local favorites. Here are a few recommendations:

1. Ristorante dell’Arte: Located in the heart of Parma, Ristorante dell’Arte offers a range of traditional dishes with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
2. Il Piatto: This modern restaurant serves up creative takes on local favorites and offers an impressive wine list.
3. La Cucina dei Sogni: Located near the historic center, La Cucina dei Sogni offers a range of traditional dishes with a focus on homemade pasta.

Street Food

For those looking for a quick bite or trying something new, Parma’s street food scene is definitely worth exploring. Here are a few recommendations:

1. Fried and Eaten: This popular street food vendor specializes in fried dumplings (polenta fritta) and other local specialties.
2. Fresh Food Market: Located near the historic center, Fresh Food Market offers a range of fresh produce, meats, and cheeses that make for perfect picnic ingredients.

Local Products

When visiting Parma, be sure to try some of its famous local products, including:

1. Parmesan Cheese (Parmigiano Reggiano): A classic Italian cheese, Parmesan is a must-try when visiting Parma.
2. Cured Meats: Try culatello di Zibello DOP or Parma ham for a taste of traditional Emilian cuisine.
3. Wine: Lambrusco is a popular local wine that pairs perfectly with many of Parma’s dishes.

FAQs

1. Q: What are some must-try dishes when visiting Parma?
   A: Try fried cake (fritto misto), tagliolini con culatello, and sbrisolata (three cup cakes).
2. Q: Where can I find traditional trattorias in Parma?
   A: Look for restaurants like Couriers Restaurant, Sisters Peaks, and Trattoria of the Court.
3. Q: What is the best way to get around Parma?
   A: The city has a well-connected public transportation system, including buses and trams.
4. Q: Can I find street food in Parma?
   A: Yes! Try fried dumplings (polenta fritta) at Fried and Eaten or other local street food vendors.
5. Q: What are some must-try local products when visiting Parma?
   A: Look for Parmesan cheese, cured meats like culatello di Zibello DOP, and local wines like Lambrusco.

Conclusion

Parma, the second largest city in Emilia Romagna, is a culinary paradise waiting to be discovered. With its rich gastronomic tradition, delicious local products, and welcoming atmosphere, Parma has something for everyone. Whether you’re a foodie, a travel enthusiast, or simply looking for inspiration to try something new, this article has provided you with the perfect starting point for your culinary adventure in Parma. So why wait? Book your trip today and indulge in the flavors of Italy’s culinary capital!

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