Local cuisine of Bolzano

Thanks to its German influence, the local cuisine in Bolzano and South Tyrol is considerably different than the traditional Italian cuisine. If you are used to Mediterranean food you will find local dishes to be much heavier and consistent but not less tasty. Pork meat is widely used and one of the most traditional dishes is roasted pork shank served with potatoes. Still from the pig is obtained a raw ham slightly smoked called ‘Speck’.
As a first dish you could try some canederli, big round dumplings made with stale bread, flour, eggs and condiments. They are usually cooked in meat broth, but other versions are available as well. Our personal favourite is the spaetzle, a freshly made thick noodle mixed with spinach. It can be served with several sauces containing or not meat, so it can be a good alternative for vegetarians like us. If you are a dairy lover, you’ll find plenty of products coming directly from mountain farms.

For a quick snack instead, you can have a bretzel, a salty donuts available in many bakeries and kiosks. As for the drinks, you should taste one of the several artisanal beers that locals are proud of, or try the popular aperitif Hugo made with Prosecco sparkling wine, elderflower syrup and fresh mint leaves.