Bari is a charming city in southern Italy, which is the capital of the Apulia region. It is famous not only for its history and architecture, but also for its rich gastronomic tradition. Here is a brief foodie guide to Bari to help you enjoy the local cuisine:
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Street food and snacks
- Sgagliozze: This is fried polenta cut into squares. You can try it at markets or right on the street.
- Panzerotti: Fried or baked half-moon shaped pastries filled with tomatoes and mozzarella.
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Traditional dishes
- Orecchiette alle cime di rapa: This pasta in the shape of "little ears" with turnip greens is a classic dish of the Apulia region.
- Riso, patate e cozze: Baked rice, potatoes, and mussels dish that combines sea and land.
- Polpo alla brace: Grilled octopus, simple yet incredibly tasty.
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Seafood Bari is a seaside city, so seafood is always fresh here. Be sure to try:
- Frutti di mare: Assorted seafood mix, such as oysters, shrimp, and squid.
- Ricci di mare: Sea urchin meat, often eaten raw with lemon.
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Desserts
- Sporcamuss: Small pastries made of puff pastry with cream and powdered sugar.
- Zeppole di San Giuseppe: Cream-filled doughnuts traditionally made on March 19, St. Joseph's Day.
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Drinks
- Primitivo: Wine made from a local grape variety, rich and full-bodied.
- Limoncello: Lovely lemon liqueur that is a perfect way to finish any meal.
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Restaurants and markets
- Mercato del Pesce di Bari: Fish market where you can not only buy fresh seafood but also try it.
- Old Town Alleyways (Bari Vecchia): Explore the narrow streets to find family-run trattorias offering authentic homemade dishes.
Remember, the key to enjoying local cuisine is being open to new flavors and, of course, the company of local residents who are willing to share their secrets and traditions.
