Adriatico | by Paola Bacchia

A food journey along Italy’s Adriatic coast to discover authentic dishes off the tourist trail.

The Italian coast of the Adriatic Sea runs from the tip of the heel of the boot-shaped peninsula at the Ionian Sea to the northern waters of the Gulf of Trieste. Along its length are rugged rocky coastlines, sandy stretches of beach, lagoons and wetlands. Spindly wooden fishing piers, white-washed walls, colorful villages and sea-facing piazze dot the 750-mile coastline, with a history touched by Etruscan, Greek, Roman, Venetian and Austrian populations.

The food of the Adriatic mirrors the memories and traditions of peoples past and present who have lived on its shores, with ingredients reflecting the climate and terrain. Join Paola on this beautiful journey with 80 authentic recipes from the region.

Paola Bacchia was born to Italian migrant parents and into their food culture. Her award-winning blog, Italy on My Mind, explores the connection between family memories and food through stories, photos, and recipes. She returns to Italy every year to expand her knowledge of Italian food and traditions. Previously, she has published At Nonna’s Table (2024), Istria (2021), Italian Street Food (2021), and Adriatico (2018) with Smith Street Books.