What to Eat and Drink in Trento

Trentino cuisine is one of the most flavorful in Italy, and many recipes are characterized by influences from different regions, such as the classic polenta from the Veneto and goulash from the Tyrol. Many dishes are also made with typical mountain products: from wild berries to high-mountain alpine pastures, and from sheep and goat dairy products such as cured meats and cheeses. These cheeses, in particular, are the stars of numerous specialties, including Trentingrana, pressed Asiago, and Asiago d’Allevo, Vezzena, Puzzone di Moena, Spressa delle Giudicarie and Rendena, Tosela, Ricotta, Dolomiti, Casolet, Fontal, and the Nostrani cheeses from Val di Fassa. Among the first courses, the most characteristic is Canederli, dumplings made with stale bread, milk, and eggs, to which pancetta or pork lard is added, and served primarily with melted butter. As for main courses, game dishes are very common, such as roe deer saddle served with mushrooms and polenta. Additionally, among the typical products, “salada” meat stands out: meat preserved in brine with added herbs. For those with a sweet tooth, the most popular desserts are apple strudel and zelten. The area is especially famous for its various apple varieties, including the delicious Golden Delicious, Stark Delicious, Granny Smith, and Renetta. The wines are excellent; among them, we’d like to mention Müller-Thurgau, Marzemino, Moscato, Casteller, and Teroldego.