Typical Dishes to Try in Bari

Bari is a city that stands out for its rich culinary tradition, with dishes that tell the story and culture of Puglia. Each dish is an experience to live, a journey through the flavors and aromas that characterize this land. Let's start with orecchiette with turnip tops, a symbol of Bari's cuisine. These small ear-shaped pasta, handmade, are seasoned with turnip tops, garlic, oil, and chili pepper. Their simplicity hides an intense and authentic flavor that perfectly represents the local tradition.

Another must-try dish is tiella barese, a delicious combination of rice, potatoes, and mussels baked in the oven. Every family has its own recipe, but the main ingredients remain unchanged: rice, potatoes, and fresh mussels, all enriched with extra virgin olive oil and breadcrumbs. This dish is true comfort food, perfect for any occasion.

The focaccia barese is another specialty not to be missed. With its soft center and crispy edges, it is topped with cherry tomatoes, olives, and oregano. It can be found in almost every bakery in the city and is often sold hot, making it a perfect snack during a stroll through the historic center.

Panzerotti, similar to calzones but fried, are another must of Bari's cuisine. The classic version is filled with tomato and mozzarella, but there are many variations, including onion, anchovies, and strong ricotta. Served hot, they are one of the most beloved street foods by the locals.

Sgagliozze, slices of fried polenta, represent another example of typical street food. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, they can be found in the alleys of Bari Vecchia, where women prepare them with passion. They are an ideal snack to enjoy while exploring the city.

Popizze, small balls of fried leavened dough, are another delicious snack. Served hot and salted, they are perfect as an appetizer or for a quick bite. Their lightness and unique flavor make them irresistible.

A dish that cannot be missed is spaghetti all’assassina. This particular dish involves cooking spaghetti directly in the pan, without prior boiling, and is flavored with a spicy tomato sauce. The result is a crunchy and intense pasta, perfect for those who love strong flavors.

Grilled octopus is another specialty to savor. Perfectly grilled, the octopus is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. It is often served with a squeeze of lemon, enhancing its natural flavor. It is a dish found in restaurants along the seafront, where the scent of the sea blends with that of the food.

Ricotta forte, a spreadable cheese with a pungent taste, is a typical ingredient of Bari's cuisine. Used to flavor bread and focaccia, it is also perfect for enriching tomato sauces, adding an extra touch of flavor to dishes.

Finally, let's not forget the typical desserts. Cartellate, sweet pasta fritters with vincotto, bocconotti, pastries filled with cream or jam, and scarcella, an Easter cake decorated with hard-boiled eggs, are just some of the delicacies you can find in Bari. Each dessert tells a story and represents a tradition that is passed down from generation to generation.

To taste these dishes in the most authentic way possible, it is advisable to get lost in the streets of Bari Vecchia. Here, bakeries, fry shops, and trattorias offer a taste of true Bari cuisine, away from touristy places. Choose those frequented by locals for an unforgettable culinary experience.