Our trip to the charming town of Parma, Italy
Photo, Colleen Nicholson.
Parma
Italian adventure
The charming town of Parma is best known for introducing the world to prosciutto and parmesan. Read ahead to see how it inspired us, and find four new pasta recipes to help you get a taste of Italy at home tonight!
Local legends
The cobblestoned town of Parma draws food lovers from around the world for heaping plates of salty-sweet prosciutto and hefty chunks of parmigiano reggiano. And that’s just a glimpse into this foodie heaven. It’s also the home base of Barilla, the world’s largest pasta maker. Book a tour with one of the local guides, who will take you around the city’s dairies and factories, and the occasional musty cellar, to sniff and sample the delicious indigenous wares.
Sleep and sip
Rest your head at the newly renovated Grand Hotel de la Ville in the city centre, which shines with sleek lines. It’s also home to local fave resto Parmigianino. Be sure to try the Torta Fritta, an amazing crispy fried dough served with heaps of prosciutto. Venture out to find hidden gem Il Cortile, and enjoy local wines and succulent grilled tagliata (sliced steak) paired with sinful roasted parmesan potatoes. Finish the day with a nightcap at the wine bars along Via Farini — ask for lambrusco, a sweet and inexpensive sparkling red.
Cycle or stroll
Rent a bike and join smartly dressed locals criss-crossing the pedestrian bridges over the Parma river. Or slow it down and stroll through the Magnificent Mile’s winding streets. You’ll pass by the Piazza Duomo, where you can take in the Romanesque cathedral’s frescoes painted by Correggio; the octagonal pink-marbled 12th-century baptistery; and the Ducal Palace, which is alive with vibrant gardens.
Pizzas and piazzas
Cool off with a scoop or two of surprisingly delicious olive oil gelato from La Gelateria while watching street mimes perform. Better still, grab a slice (or two) of caprese pizza from Pizzeria La Duchessa and join the hordes spilling out into the cafés at Piazza Garibaldi after the siesta shutters come up.
Spaghetti with duck confit and chard
Our trip inspired us to create four Italian pasta dishes. This rich spaghetti is just one way to get a taste of Europe at home.
Read about our pasta-making adventures with Barilla here.
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