A Taste of La Spezia

Tour Details

La Spezia is often considered the gateway to Cinque Terre, five coastal villages that are on many people's bucket lists. This often-underrated town is more than just a starting point to its more revered neighbors. Here you will find classic Italian charm with a more subtle experience that has plenty to offer all its own.

Begin in historic Piazza Garibaldi, this small but picturesque square contains one of La Spezia's many artistic touches, a marble fountain. Here you can typically find locals in the piazza lounging at sidewalk tables and passersby enjoying ice cream. Make the very most of your time here and be guided off the typical tourist path as you experience a mix of culinary traditions. Your guided food tour will take you on a progressive sampling experience that incorporates different eateries starting with an entree and ending with typical Italian dessert or ice cream.

Your first stop will introduce you to Sgabei, a food typical of Lunigiana, an Italian historical region now divided between Liguria and Tuscany. This small pancake is leavened bread dough is cut into strips, fried, and salted on the surface and is traditionally eaten plain or stuffed with cheese or cold cuts.

Next you will taste Mesciua, a typical food of La Spezia. This delicious soup is made with chickpeas, white beans and wheat grains, the recipe will even be shared with you. This hearty soup is a favorite of locals, especially during winter months when they turn to hot dishes.

Continue to your next stop for a delectable sampling of Testaroli, sometimes referred to as testarolo. A type of pasta or bread in Italian cuisine that is prepared using water, flour, and salt, which is sliced into triangular shapes. Enriched with pesto, olive oil, parmesan cheese and mushroom sauce, alternatively baked, this can be served with cheese and cured meat (panigacci). Sample pasta with walnut sauce, a very typical dish from Liguria and a must try! Enjoy fried calamari and anchovies, freshly fished locally, and cooked personally by local fishermen. Finally try Farinata, a delicious chickpea pancake cooked in a wood oven. The best one is soft in the center with a lightly crisp outer coating.

To round out this gastronomical experience you will end your tour with ice cream or typical desserts of the region. Sample some of the best artisanal treats in town featuring both traditional and innovative ingredients.

Your group is kept to a maximum number of 10 guests at a time to ensure a very intimate and one on one experience and away from large crowds. This social eating experience brings people together from all over the world sharing personal food stories and enjoying a relaxing and joyful atmosphere.

Please Note: Please list any food allergies at the time of booking.