Bari and the Assassina Spaghetti
Discover Bari, its history, and the Assassina spaghetti, an iconic dish of Barese cuisine.
"Spaghetti all'assassina" is a classic dish from Bari. It was created in the city during the 1960s. The unique part is the cooking method. Spaghetti goes straight into the pan with spicy sauce. No pre-boiling in water. This makes the pasta crispy and slightly charred in spots. It has a bold, unmistakable flavor. It's not just a recipe but a true symbol of Bari's cuisine.
The original recipe uses few ingredients: spaghetti, tomato sauce, chili, garlic, and olive oil. But the technique really sets it apart. The pasta is "burned" and cooked like a risotto. Sauce is added gradually. This is why it's called "assassina." The intense, spicy taste can surprise even brave eaters. Each bite balances crispiness and creaminess. It reflects Bari's direct, uncompromising cooking style.
In Bari, you can enjoy "spaghetti all'assassina" in many places. These spots are known for tradition and quality. Giampà is a historic favorite in the city. Le 2 Aquile offers a cozy setting with typical Bari dishes. Al Sorso Preferito is praised for its crispy, well-balanced spicy version. Each place has its own style. They keep one of Bari's most iconic recipes alive.
I chose to try it at Al Sorso Preferito. This historic place supposedly created the original spaghetti all'assassina in 1967. Here, the dish became known for its unique cooking style. It's made with direct pan cooking, lots of chili, and a deliberately "burnt" crispiness.
The experience was great from the start. A friendly phone call for booking, then Nino and his staff's warm welcome. It's the kind of place I like: calm, friendly, a touch of elegance, but relaxed. You feel politeness, respect, and courtesy naturally, without overdoing it.
The food was fresh and true to tradition. The price matched the quality offered. The atmosphere stayed friendly and lively, even when it got busy. We were in Bari for just one day and returned for both lunch and dinner. That shows how much we enjoyed it.
If you're in Bari and want to try the original assassina, consider this place. After a nice walk on Bari's seafront or visiting the old city, nothing beats a good plate of spaghetti!
