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Verona food guide
Signature dishes, best food neighborhoods, and the dining etiquette that actually matters — all specific to Verona.
What to eat in Verona
5 signature dishes, 3 food-forward neighborhoods, and the etiquette you actually need to know.
Must-try dishes
Pastissada de Caval
A rich, slow-cooked horse meat stew, often seasoned with red wine and spices, this historic Veronese dish is a testament to the city's culinary heritage.
Risotto all'Amarone
Creamy risotto infused with the robust flavors of Amarone della Valpolicella, a powerful red wine from the region, offering a deep, complex taste.
Bigoli con l'Anatra
Thick, hand-rolled spaghetti (bigoli) served with a hearty duck ragu, a classic comfort food dish in Verona.
Pearà
A unique side dish made from breadcrumbs, beef marrow, butter, and Parmesan cheese, traditionally served with boiled meats.
Tiramisù Veronese
While tiramisù is found throughout Italy, Verona often adds a local twist, sometimes incorporating local wines or spirits into the mascarpone cream.
Where locals eat — best neighborhoods
Historic charm meets culinary excellence, with a mix of traditional trattorias and elegant restaurants.
A more local, bohemian feel with diverse eateries and affordable, authentic cuisine.
Upscale and residential, offering refined dining experiences and charming cafes.
Dietary notes
Veronese cuisine is traditionally hearty and meat-centric, with many dishes featuring beef, duck, or horse. Vegetarian options are becoming more available, especially pasta dishes with vegetable sauces or cheese, but vegan options can be challenging to find outside of dedicated establishments.
Local etiquette
- •Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially at popular restaurants in the Centro Storico.
- •Tipping is not obligatory; a small service charge might be included, or rounding up the bill is appreciated for good service.
- •Italians typically eat lunch between 1 PM and 2:30 PM and dinner from 7:30 PM onwards, with peak times after 8:30 PM.
- •Ordering a cappuccino after 11 AM is generally considered a tourist move; stick to espresso or macchiato later in the day.
- •Dress smart-casual for dinner; locals tend to dress well when dining out.