7 + 1 Delicious Italian Street Foods You Must Try

Italian street food allows discovering the country’s rich culinary traditions, providing travelers with an authentic taste of local flavors and culture. From bustling markets to charming food stalls, Italy’s streets are filled with an array of mouth-watering delights that reflect the diverse regional specialties and time-honoured recipes passed down through generations.

For tourists, indulging in street food is the perfect way to experience the essence of Italy’s gastronomic heritage, whether it is enjoying a warm slice of pizza in Naples, savouring a crispy arancino in Sicily, or biting into a fresh piadina in Emilia-Romagna. Join us as we embark on a culinary journey to discover 8 of the most delicious and iconic Italian street foods that you simply must try.

Michetta (or Michetta Ripiena)

The Michetta, a beloved Milanese street food, has a rich history dating back to the 18th century. Originating from the Austrian “Kaisersemmel” brought to Milan during Austrian rule, the michetta evolved into its own unique form. Distinguished by its characteristic round shape and hollow interior, this bread roll became a symbol of Milan’s culinary heritage.

Michetta is typically enjoyed filled with a variety of delicious ingredients, which making it a versatile and flavorous street food. Most popular fillings include classic combinations such as prosciutto and cheese, mortadella with artichokes, or bresaola with arugula and Parmesan. There are also innovative variations that cater to diverse tastes, including vegetarian options with grilled vegetables and creamy spreads.

To taste the best michetta in Milan, head to local bakeries and street food vendors scattered throughout the city. Top spots include Panificio Longoni, known for its artisanal bread and fresh ingredients, and Pavé, a bakery that puts a contemporary twist on traditional Milanese flavors. Discovering these local favourites will give you a true taste of Milan’s rich culinary tradition, all encapsulated in the simple yet delightful michetta.

Pizza a Portafoglio

The Pizza a Portafoglio, a quintessential Neapolitan street food, is a smaller, foldable version of the classic Neapolitan pizza. Its name, which translates to “wallet pizza,” comes from the way it is folded into quarters, making it easy to eat on the go. This tradition dates back to the early 20th century when pizza makers created this portable version for busy locals and travelers who needed a quick yet delicious meal.

Preparation of Pizza a Portafoglio follows the traditional Neapolitan pizza-making techniques. It starts with a soft dough made from high-quality flour, water, salt, and yeast. The dough is then topped with a simple yet flavorful combination of tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, a drizzle of olive oil, and a few basil leaves. The pizza is cooked in a wood-fired oven at a high temperature, resulting in a slightly crispy crust. Once out of the oven, the pizza is folded into quarters, ready to be enjoyed.

To taste the best Pizza a Portafoglio in Naples, head to iconic pizzerias like Di Matteo and Sorbillo on Via dei Tribunali, or Antica Pizzeria Port’Alba near Piazza Dante. These places are renowned for their mastery of traditional Neapolitan pizza and their commitment to using quality ingredients and authentic preparation methods.

You can comfortably reach Naples from Milan by train thanks to the high-speed Italo services, which make the journey convenient and swift. This way you can quickly reach the city and experience the culinary delights of Naples, including the unforgettable Pizza a Portafoglio. All while exploring the rich history and vibrant culture of this iconic city.

Arancini

Arancini, the beloved Sicilian street food, are golden-fried rice balls typically stuffed with a variety of fillings. Their name, which means “little oranges” in Italian, comes from their round shape and color that resemble the fruit. Arancini have a long history in Sicily, dating back to the 10th century during Arab rule. They were originally created as a portable meal for travelers and workers, combining rice and savory fillings in a crispy coating.

Arancini are made by forming cooked rice into balls or cones, filling them with ingredients such as ragù (meat sauce), mozzarella, peas, and sometimes saffron for added flavor and colour. The cook coats the rice balls in breadcrumbs and deep-fries them until they are golden and crispy. The result is a delightful contrast between the crunchy exterior and the soft, flavourful interior.

To find the best arancini, visit renowned Sicilian spots like Bar Savia in Catania, Pasticceria Bar Alba in Palermo, and Caffè Sicilia in Noto. These places are celebrated for their mastery of traditional arancini and their dedication to quality and authenticity.

Exploring the diverse variations of arancini throughout different locals offers a delicious journey into the heart of Italian street food culture, displaying the rich sicilian culinary tradition.

Supplì

Supplì are a beloved Roman street food, similar to the Sicilian arancini but with distinct differences that make them unique. These delightful rice croquettes are typically filled with a rich ragù and a piece of mozzarella, which melts during frying to create a gooey, irresistible center. The name “supplì” is derived from the Italianization of the French word “surprise,” alluding to the delightful cheese surprise inside.

Originating in Rome, supplì have been a staple of the city’s culinary scene since the 19th century. They were initially sold by street vendors and later became popular in trattorias and pizzerias. The traditional preparation involves mixing cooked rice with ragù, forming it into oblong shapes, inserting a piece of mozzarella, coating with breadcrumbs, and deep-frying until golden and crispy.

To experience the best supplì, head to some of Rome’s most popular spots like Supplizio, I Supplì, and Trapizzino. These establishments are renowned for their authentic and delicious supplì, often drawing locals and tourists alike eager to taste this Roman delicacy.

Exploring supplì provides a delicious insight into Roman gastronomy and highlights the regional variations that make Italian street food so diverse and fascinating. Whether you are wandering the streets of Rome or dining in a traditional trattoria, supplì offer a delightful taste of the city’s rich culinary heritage.

Panzerotti

Panzerotti are a delicious and popular street food originating from Southern Italy, particularly from the regions of Puglia and Campania. These savory pastries are similar to calzones but are smaller and typically fried, resulting in a crispy, golden exterior and a hot interior. The traditional filling consists of tomatoes and mozzarella, but there are numerous variations to suit different tastes.

Regional specialties of panzerotti highlight the diverse culinary traditions across Italy. In Puglia, panzerotti often feature classic fillings such as tomatoes, mozzarella, and oregano. However, they can also include ingredients like ham, ricotta, or spinach. In Campania, particularly around Naples, panzerotti might be filled with richer ingredients like sausage, mushrooms, and provolone cheese. These regional peculiarities are part of the charm of panzerotti, making them a versatile and loved snack.

To taste the best panzerotti, visit some of the most renowned spots in Italy. In Bari, Panificio Fiore is famous for its authentic panzerotti, offering a variety of fillings that display the traditional flavors of Puglia. In Naples, Di Matteo and Pizzeria Gorizia 1916 are popular destinations for savouring these delightful pastries, known for their perfect blend of crispy dough and delicious fillings.

Panzerotti are a must-try for anyone exploring Italian street food. Their combination of a crispy exterior and a savory, melted interior provides a satisfying and memorable culinary experience. Whether enjoyed as a quick snack from a street vendor or as part of a meal in a local eatery, panzerotti offer a tasty glimpse into the rich and varied food culture of Southern Italy.

Porchetta

Porchetta is a traditional Italian dish that boasts a rich history. Originating from central Italy, particularly the regions of Lazio, Umbria, and Tuscany, porchetta is a savoury, boneless pork roast known for its tender meat and crispy, flavourful skin. This dish has been a staple of Italian cuisine for centuries, often served during festivals, celebrations, and as a beloved street food.

Preparation of porchetta involves deboning a whole pig and stuffing it with a mixture of garlic, rosemary, fennel, and other herbs and spices. The meat is then rolled, tied, and slow-roasted for several hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the skin to become perfectly crispy. The result is a succulent, aromatic roast that is typically sliced and served in thick, tasty portions.

Famous places for porchetta include the town of Ariccia in Lazio, which is renowned for producing some of the best porchetta in Italy. Ariccia even hosts an annual festival dedicated to this delicious roast, attracting food lovers from all over. Additionally, towns like Norcia in Umbria and various villages in Tuscany are known for their exceptional porchetta, often prepared using traditional family recipes passed down through generations.

When it comes to serving porchetta, there are several suggestions to enhance your culinary experience. Porchetta is traditionally served sliced and can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a sandwich, often in a simple crusty roll to highlight the flavors of the meat. It is also commonly paired with roasted or grilled vegetables, fresh salads, or alongside a selection of Italian cheeses and olives. For a complete meal, try pairing porchetta with a side of roasted potatoes and a glass of robust red wine, such as Chianti or Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, to complement the rich flavors of the roast.

Whether you enjoy it at a local festival, a street food market, or in a traditional trattoria, porchetta offers a delectable taste of Italy’s culinary heritage, displaying the country’s dedication to flavor and tradition.

Gelato

Gelato, the iconic Italian ice cream, is a beloved treat that embodies the rich tradition of Italian craftsmanship and culinary excellence. Unlike regular ice cream, gelato is known for its dense texture and intense flavors, achieved by using more milk than cream and less air in the churning process.

The tradition of Italian gelato dates back to the Renaissance, with historical figures like Bernardo Buontalenti, a Florentine chef, credited with perfecting the early recipes. Today, gelato remains a staple of Italian culture, enjoyed by locals and tourists alike in gelaterie (gelato shops) across the country. Each region brings its own unique touch to this sweet delight, reflecting the diverse flavors and ingredients of Italy.

For the best gelaterie in Italy, consider visiting some of the most renowned places. In Florence, Gelateria dei Neri and Vivoli are must-visit spots known for their authentic, high-quality gelato. Rome boasts famous gelaterie like Gelateria del Teatro and Giolitti, where you can savor traditional flavors in historic settings. In Bologna, Cremeria Funivia and La Sorbetteria Castiglione offer exceptional gelato crafted with passion and precision.

When enjoying Italian gelato, be sure to try some unique flavors that highlight local ingredients and creativity. Classic flavors like pistachio, hazelnut, and stracciatella (chocolate chip) are always popular choices, but there’s no shortage of less conventional options. In Sicily, try gelato al pistacchio di Bronte, made with world-famous Bronte pistachios. In Tuscany, flavors like vin santo and cantucci (wine and almond biscuits) showcase regional specialties. For a refreshing twist, look for fruit-based gelato made with seasonal produce, such as lemon, peach, or wild berries.

Piadina

Piadina is a traditional Italian flatbread that hails from the Emilia-Romagna region. Known for its simplicity and versatility, piadina is made from a dough of flour, lard (or olive oil), salt, and water, which is then rolled out and cooked on a griddle. This delightful bread is soft and slightly crispy, providing the perfect canvas for a variety of fillings.

Popular fillings and variations of piadina display the rich flavors of the region. The classic piadina is often filled with prosciutto, arugula, and squacquerone cheese, a soft and creamy cheese typical of Emilia-Romagna. Other popular fillings include cured meats like salami and mortadella, fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, grilled vegetables, and spreads such as pesto or tapenade. Sweet versions of piadina are also enjoyed, filled with Nutella, honey, or fresh fruit for a delightful dessert.

To find the best piadina in Italy, visit the region where it originated—Emilia-Romagna. In cities like Rimini, Cesena, and Ravenna, you’ll find numerous piadinerie (piadina shops) that serve this beloved street food. La Lella Piadineria in Rimini is famous for its traditional and innovative fillings, while Casa della Piadina in Ravenna offers a cozy spot to enjoy a freshly made piadina. For an authentic experience, head to Piadineria Vecchi Sapori in Cesena, where you can taste piadina made using time-honored recipes.

Exploring the world of piadina provides a delicious glimpse into the culinary traditions of Emilia-Romagna. Whether enjoyed as a quick snack or a satisfying meal, piadina embodies the essence of Italian street food—simple, flavourful, and deeply rooted in local culture.

Conclusion: the tradition of Italian street food

Italian street food offers a tantalizing journey through the country’s rich culinary heritage, allowing you to experience the vibrant flavors and traditions that define Italy’s gastronomic landscape. From the crispy delights of arancini in Sicily to the savoury satisfaction of piadina in Emilia-Romagna, each bite tells a story of regional pride and culinary artistry.

As you explore Italy, make it a point to indulge in these delicious street foods. Not only will you discover new tastes and textures, but you will also gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural significance of these beloved dishes. Whether you are wandering through the bustling markets of Naples or the historic streets of Rome, these culinary treasures are an essential part of the Italian experience.

So, let your taste buds lead the way and embrace the adventure of Italian street food. Each dish is an invitation to savour the heart and soul of Italy, creating memories that will last long after the last bite.