Pescara Foodie Hotspots: 5 Must-Try Bites & Drinks

Pescara, this coastal city nestled on Italy’s Adriatic coast, it’s really just a treasure trove for those of you who appreciate fantastic food and drinks. Forget the typical tourist traps, we’re talking places where the locals actually go, spots brimming with true flavor and tradition. Get ready to tempt your taste buds with some delectable seafood, regional wines, and super crave-able street food. So, join me as we check out 5 “can’t skip” food and drink adventures Pescara definitely has to offer; you may just discover your next favorite Italian restaurant!

1. Brodetto alla Pescarese: A Seafood Symphony

You know, when in Pescara, Brodetto alla Pescarese is virtually a must. This traditional fish stew, a local thing, it’s more or less a seafood symphony in a bowl. Imagine, if you will, a bubbling pot filled to the brim with freshly caught seafood – we’re talking mussels, clams, prawns, and maybe even a bit of local white fish, all simmered in a tasty tomato-based broth that is really quite irresistible. The preparation varies a little bit from restaurant to restaurant, but you often see a dash of chili pepper, which just adds this fantastic little kick. Places right along the port usually serve up some seriously authentic versions, so you’ll be chowing down while overlooking the sparkling Adriatic Sea.

2. Arrosticini: Skewered Sheep Meat Goodness

Alright, Arrosticini: These small skewers of castrated sheep meat, they’re just one of Abruzzo’s most famed street foods. Don’t let “sheep meat” throw you; these little morsels are actually pure magic. The meat is carefully cut into tiny cubes, skewered, and then grilled to utter perfection. So, you’re getting this wonderfully charred exterior and a tender, oh-so-juicy interior. A sprinkle of salt, well, it’s about all they need. Look for vendors with the smoky grills firing them up all around town – a real sign that is usually something truly awesome is cooking. Grabbing a handful of arrosticini with your fingers, standing in a crowded little piazza, well, that is one seriously quintessential Pescara experience, that’s for sure!

3. Montepulciano d’Abruzzo: Wine From the Land

Now, you know, you simply cannot have an Abruzzese meal without trying the local wine! Montepulciano d’Abruzzo is usually the way to go; a real red that’s enjoyed and beloved throughout the region. What can you expect? Well, expect a dry red with fruit flavors and sometimes a touch of earthy spice. Actually, it pairs beautifully with all sorts of food, really; it’s terrific with arrosticini, lovely with pasta, and quite remarkable when enjoyed on its own while you relax and people-watch. Basically, ask for it at almost any restaurant in town, and prepare to be pleasantly surprised.

4. Scrippelle ‘mbusse: A Soul-Warming Soup

When the weather is just a little bit cooler, or you’re in the mood for something comforting, scrippelle ‘mbusse totally fits the bill. They are really super-thin crepes, rolled up and then served in a hot broth, basically chicken broth, loaded with parmesan cheese. They almost melt right in your mouth! A few local places keep this comforting dish on the menu year-round; actually, just ask around for a ‘ristorante tipico’ to hopefully find some scrippelle that will absolutely just blow you away! So, this soup is so perfect for chasing away any chills and it has a warm, familiar flavor; it’s kind of like the Italian version of chicken noodle soup!

5. Parrozzo: A Taste of Abruzzese Sweetness

Oh, for a sweet finish, you simply must seek out Parrozzo. That dense, cake, it’s made primarily from almonds and it’s a really renowned Abruzzese dessert that has a rather rich history. Reportedly, it was developed back in the early 1900s; its shape and yellow color, those are actually meant to evoke the look of the bread made by farmers of the area long ago. Expect a fairly dense, moist cake with such lovely almond flavor. The cake itself is often coated in dark chocolate, which truly gives it just a bit of extra indulgence. It often goes perfect with coffee, maybe even a glass of vin santo; Parrozzo is the perfect end to a delicious Pescara adventure!