Hi all - we'll be in Bologna for a week in late October. Looking for recommendations for a food tour in Parma or nearby area. We were in Bologna two years ago for a week but because of catastrophic flooding in the region, we stayed mostly in Bologna (not a hardship - love that city!). This time, we'd like to explore the region a bit.
Posted by
Milan Italy
134 posts
Hi, Giangilberto from Milan, if you want to focus specifically on Parma, there are some culinary gems worth trying.
Above all, Parma is one of the five provinces where Parmigiano Reggiano can be made, along with Reggio Emilia, Modena, and parts of Bologna and Mantova.
Beyond the classic aged varieties (ranging from 12 to over 36 months), I highly recommend tasting "Vacche Rosse" (Red Cow) Parmigiano, many consider it the finest expression of the cheese, including me. You will notice the difference compared to the standard variety, it is produced exclusively from the milk of the Rossa Reggiana (an indigenous breed of red cow) under strict regulations. These rules mandate a diet of only grass, hay, and certified non-GMO feed, strictly prohibit any feeding techniques designed to force production, and prioritize animal welfare above all else.
https://www.consorziovaccherosse.it/en/
Another standout is undoubtedly Prosciutto di Parma, along with Culatello di Zibello, true delicacies in the world of cured meats. As a passionate enthusiast and forager, I also want to highlight the porcini mushrooms from Val di Taro, known for their intense aroma and bold flavor. Highly prized in the kitchen for risottos and sauces, they are also delicious on their own, simply sautéed in a pan with garlic and parsley.
If you find restaurants serving them, always ask if they are locally sourced rather than imported (especially from Eastern Europe), as the quality is not even remotely comparable.
Here is a list of my favorite restaurants:
https://www.anticacortepallavicinarelais.com/
A magical place masterfully run by Chef Massimo Spigaroli, they hold a Michelin star and perfectly blend tradition with innovation, an absolute must-try.
Finally, for something more traditional, I highly recommend Osteria del 36 and Trattoria Brisla.
Posted by
179 posts
We recently stayed in Modena (which we loved) and took a food tour with Laura. We met our driver in Reggio Emilia and visited a Parmesan dairy, a Balsamic Acetaia, and a Prosciutto processing facility in the area which all included tastings and lunch. (Wine tasting was an option as well.) I’m not sure that’s the kind of tour you’re looking for, but we really enjoyed our day and learned a lot. I’ve seen several posts on the forum by locals who recommend other private guide companies as well. This is different from a walking guide with whom you visit various restaurants for tastings, but I would definitely recommend the experience.
Posted by
Vignola, Modena, Italy
666 posts
There are several kind of differente food tours, only walking and tasting or directly go to the food producers watching how are made (and tasting too, of course). Due to the high number of different proposal there are almost no group tours, but there are several tailor made solutions. Of course the second ones are much more expensive.
This is a good example of a group food tour where you visit the three most known producers: https://emiliaromagnatours.it/parma-tours/food-tour-full-day/
Posted by
San Diego, California, USA
2240 posts
We took a tour with Taste Bologna while in Modena and enjoyed it. Our guide was very well informed, personable and we really enjoyed it.
They offer tours in Bologna, Modena and in Parma - both tours and cooking classes: https://www.tastebologna.net/city/parma
Have a great trip,
=Tod