10 Must-Try Local Dishes in Italy and Their Exact Costs

At QuickAdvisr, we bring you expert insights. Italy is a food lover’s paradise, offering a rich culinary heritage that spans centuries. From hearty pasta dishes to decadent desserts, Italian cuisine is celebrated worldwide. But to truly experience Italy, you need to indulge in its local dishes—those authentic flavors that define each region. In this guide, we’ll explore the 10 Must-Try Local Dishes in Italy and Their Exact Costs, so you can savor every bite without breaking the bank.

Why Italian Local Dishes Are Worth Trying | Powered by QuickAdvisr

Italian cuisine is more than just food—it’s a way of life. Each dish tells a story of tradition, culture, and passion. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the coastal towns of Sicily, every region boasts its own specialties. Trying these local dishes allows you to connect with Italy’s history and savor flavors you won’t find anywhere else.

“Italian food is all about simplicity and quality ingredients. When you taste a dish made with love, you’re tasting the heart of Italy.”

10 Must-Try Local Dishes in Italy and Their Exact Costs

1. Pizza Margherita (Naples)

The birthplace of pizza, Naples, offers the iconic Pizza Margherita. Topped with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, this dish is a symbol of Italian cuisine. You can enjoy this classic for around €5–€8 at a traditional pizzeria.

2. Spaghetti Carbonara (Rome)

Originating in Rome, Spaghetti Carbonara is a creamy pasta dish made with eggs, Pecorino Romano cheese, pancetta, and black pepper. A plate typically costs €10–€12 in a mid-range restaurant.

3. Lasagna (Bologna)

Bologna’s Lasagna is a hearty dish layered with pasta, ragù, béchamel sauce, and Parmigiano-Reggiano. Expect to pay around €12–€15 for this comfort food.

4. Risotto alla Milanese (Milan)

This creamy risotto, flavored with saffron and Parmigiano-Reggiano, is a Milanese specialty. It’s priced at approximately €14–€18 in most restaurants.

5. Gelato (Countrywide)

No trip to Italy is complete without Gelato. This creamy, artisanal ice cream comes in countless flavors and costs around €2–€4 per scoop.

6. Ossobuco (Milan)

Ossobuco is a Milanese dish featuring braised veal shanks with gremolata and risotto. It’s a bit pricier, costing around €18–€22.

7. Fiorentina Steak (Florence)

This massive T-bone steak, grilled to perfection, is a Florentine favorite. Prices vary by weight but expect to pay around €40–€50 for a full steak.

8. Arancini (Sicily)

These fried rice balls, stuffed with ragù, cheese, or vegetables, are a Sicilian street food staple. They’re affordable, costing just €1–€2 each.

9. Tiramisu (Veneto)

This coffee-flavored dessert, made with mascarpone and ladyfingers, hails from Veneto. A slice costs around €5–€7.

10. Truffle Pasta (Umbria)

Umbria’s truffle pasta is a luxurious dish featuring fresh truffles and pasta. Prices range from €15–€20, depending on the truffle quality.

Cost Comparison of Italian Dishes