10 Must-Try Dishes of Abruzzo

Skewered, grilled, and seasoned to perfection, these tender lamb skewers are the pride of Abruzzo. Simple yet packed with flavor, they’re traditionally cooked over an open flame on a narrow grill called a fornacella.

What to Expect: Juicy bites of lamb, lightly salted, and best enjoyed with a glass of Montepulciano d’Abruzzo.

Recommended Spot: Braceria Arrosticini da Carlo near Pescara is a local favorite for arrosticini.

Pro tip: Order a double portion from the very start—you’ll want more.

This pasta gets its name from the chitarra (guitar), a wooden tool with strings used to cut the dough into square strands. Typically served with a rich lamb ragù, this dish is the epitome of Abruzzese comfort food.

What to Expect: Firm, fresh pasta with a hearty sauce that hugs every strand.

Recommended Spot: Check out L’antica Fonte Romana in Scafa for some of the best chitarra in the region.

Think savory crepes rolled up and served in a light, fragrant broth. Originating in Teramo, this dish is as comforting as a warm hug on a chilly day.

What to Expect: Delicate crepes soaking in flavorful chicken broth, with a sprinkle of Pecorino cheese for good measure.

Recommended Spot: A nonna’s house! This dish is tough to find at a restaurant, even around Teramo. If you’re staying at a guesthouse with friendly hosts, ask if they know of a spot where you can try this elusive delicacy.

Cheese and egg balls? Yes, please! These golden morsels, fried and simmered in tomato sauce, are an irresistible vegetarian option with serious flavor.

What to Expect: Crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, with a tangy tomato kick.

Recommended Spot: Meraviglia in Guardiagrele serves up some of the best pallotte you’ll ever try.

This seafood stew from Vasto is a medley of fresh fish and shellfish cooked in a rich tomato base. It’s best eaten by the coast, where the fish are practically leaping onto your plate.

What to Expect: A briny, aromatic explosion of flavors, served with crusty bread for dipping.

Recommended Spot: Try Il Re Pescatore in Vasto, where you can enjoy brodetto in the city of its origin!

This slow-roasted pork dish, seasoned with herbs and spices, is a carnivore’s dream come true. Crunchy crackling on the outside, tender meat on the inside—it’s perfect as a street food or part of a feast.

What to Expect: A savory, herby burst of flavor in every bite, with just the right amount of fat.

Recommended Spot: The best porchetta is often served from food trucks (found all over Abruzzo), but if you’re looking for a specific restaurant, try Porchetta La Squisita in Santa Lucia.

Abruzzo’s forests are brimming with truffles, and this dish is a celebration of their earthy, luxurious aroma. Tajarin pasta is tossed with butter and topped generously with shaved truffle.

What to Expect: Rich, buttery pasta with a truffle aroma so intoxicating you’ll want to bottle it.

Recommended Spot: Indulge at Antica Trattoria Vittoria near Schiavi di Abruzzo for a truly decadent experience.

These waffle-like cookies are made with a special iron and are perfect with a cup of espresso. Sweet and slightly crisp, they come in a variety of flavors like anise and lemon.

What to Expect: Delicate, fragrant cookies that melt in your mouth.

Recommended Spot: Stop by Caprice Fabrizio Camplone in Pescara for pizzelle that taste like nonna made them.

This sour cherry tart is a staple in Abruzzo’s dessert repertoire. The jam-like filling is both tangy and sweet, encased in a buttery shortcrust pastry.

What to Expect: A perfect balance of tart and sweet, with a flaky, buttery crust.

Recommended Spot: Visit any neighborhood pasticceria where you’re sure to find these on display.

These sugared almonds aren’t just candy—they’re edible works of art. Traditionally given as favors at weddings and celebrations, Sulmona’s confetti are famous throughout Italy.

What to Expect: Crunchy almonds coated in sweet, colorful shells, often shaped into flowers.

Recommended Spot: Pelino Confetti Museum in Sulmona offers tastings and an inside look at how these treats are made.