There are seven destinations in northern Italy that lovers of the food culture will surely enjoy. (Kate Leahy Voigts)
“You better cut the pizza in four pieces because I’m not hungry enough to eat six.”
— Yogi Berra
Friends often tell me what they enjoy most about Italy is the food! Italian cuisine is acclaimed for its home-made pastas, woodfired pizzas, fresh vegetables, fabulous cheeses and quality olive oil. There are seven destinations in northern Italy that lovers of the food culture will surely enjoy.
This gem is located down the pedestrian walkway directly across from the central square. It is family owned and operated, and as their website claims it’s “a perfect combination of craftsmanship, experience and innovation.” They offer great woodfired pizza as well as pasta and seafood dishes.
If you like your pizza spicy, this spot has numerous options. There is a small alfresco dining area, and the seating inside is equally pleasant.
If you haven’t discovered this premier gelato spot 10 minutes from the airbase, you’ve been missing out! Located at Via Riccardo Pitteri 2, it offers the creamiest gelato in unique flavors plus all the standards. They also make beautiful cakes for special occasions.
Thirty minutes from Aviano Airbase you’re in Piancavallo. In the summer, you’ll enjoy cooler temperatures with its 1280-meter elevation. Entering the Edelweiss, you’ll feel like you’re in a traditional Bavarian stube. My favorite offerings are the radicchio salad, frico (fried cheese with polenta), and either pizza or a pasta dish.
Entering the Edelweiss, you’ll feel like you’re in a traditional Bavarian stube. (Kate Leahy Voigts)
The pizza master is in fact that! In the vestibule, take note of Stefano Menegon’s multiple certifications from the Accademia Pizzaioli, well-known in culinary circles as the school where the world’s best pizza chefs train. If the kids are in tow, there’s a playground out front with a wonderful view of the mountains.
Just 30 minutes from Aviano by car, or one train stop from Sacile, you’re in Conegliano. The town is the gateway to the Prosecco Road. Upon arrival you’ll be struck by the attractive outline of the town’s 10th century castle sitting atop Colle di Giano (Giano Hill). That’s your dining destination.
The Ristorante Belvedere is co-located with the town’s civic museum in a pretty courtyard garden. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a bottle of the reasonably-priced house prosecco and explore the interesting cicchetti menu. My favorite is the cheese plate, “formaggi locali con salsa alle pere.” I’ve also enjoyed lunch here and have never seen a disappointed diner.
An hour from Aviano is Castelafranco, a city founded in 1199. It’s the birthplace of painter Giorgione, a great source of the town’s pride. The Pizzeria Alla Torre, built into the city wall, is a unique dining spot. The food and service are impeccable. However, watch your head as you descend to the WC!
Thirty minutes from Aviano, this Michelin-recommended restaurant sits on a small island in the Meschio River. Established in 2006, it’s the site of a former mill and the brainchild of two brothers, Adriano and Giuseppe. The location, food and service are first class. Their on-site management and care for your dining experience is extraordinary.
From Aviano, in about an hour, you’re in Udine at this photogenic canal-side restaurant established in 1923. It has an interesting history as a former refrigerator warehouse from which its name derives. Make a reservation as it’s very popular. Depending on the season, request a patio table. You won’t be disappointed in the ambience or menu options.
When it comes to dining in Italy I think Sophia Loren said it best: “Everything you see I owe to pasta.” Buon appetito!
If you haven’t discovered this premier gelato spot 10 minutes from the airbase, you’ve been missing out! (Kate Leahy Voigts)
Kate is a retired Army officer and award-winning writer enjoying la dolce vita in Aviano, Italy.
Editor’s Note: This article was written by a member of the local military community, not an employee of Stars and Stripes. Neither the organization nor the content is being represented by Stars and Stripes or the Department of War.
