Traditional Cuisine of Orvieto

Authentic flavors of simple cuisine that respects the territory

The great food and wine tradition of Orvieto and the traditional Orvieto cuisine, a thousand-year-old tradition still perceivable in the recipes and typical dishes of Orvieto, which have always been accompanied by appreciated and famous locally produced wines.

Orvieto cuisine is typical of the regions of central Italy and, although rich in its own traditions, is influenced by regional Umbrian, Lazio and Tuscan influences. A simple and tasty cuisine that will conquer every palate.

The Italian tradition of enjoying food and wine is significant to natives and thrives in Orvieto. Old traditions are still prevalent in modern Orvietan recipes (which are always enhanced popular local wines).
The meat has always been of considerable importance in the Orvieto kitchen. Pork is one of the most popular meats, and used it many recipes: prosciutto, sausages, mazzafegati for example.
Poultry, rabbit and game animals are also widely used. Pigeon and dove are among the most classic dishes that can be tasted in Orvieto. The “palomba alla leccarda” and the “pollo alla cacciatore” are two of the oldest and most typical dishes of the city.

Wild boar is a unique game animal that is very popular in Orvieto. It is prepared in a variety of ways from sausages, stews and sauces to simply being grilled.
Pasta is, of course, a staple in the Orvieto diet (umbrichelli in particular). Umbrichelli is a typical pasta made solely from water and flour that was invented in the Orvieto area.

Umbrichelli, like many other dishes, were invented in difficult times of war when there was a shortage of food and money. A few of the most typical pasta dishes of Orvieto are: “umbrichelli all’arrabbiata” or “umbricelli al tartufo” and “tagliatelle al ragù.” Some other traditional dishes of Orvieto are “spaghetti con il tonno” (tuna), “tagliolini con brodo di tinca” (tench fish), and “zuppe di ceci e castagne” (chickpea and chestnut soup).

If you are in the mood for a snack, try “Tortucce”, “Lumachella” or biscotti salati all’anice (anise cookies). You also can’t go wrong with any of the confectionery traditions common in Orvieto e.g. “tozzetti alle mandorle”, “ciambelle al vino” and “pizze di Pasqua” (a bread which can come sweet or salty).
Orvieto is also known for its rich and flavorful olive oil. The hilly countryside around Orvieto offer fertile grounds for the cultivation of olive trees. There are many stores and restaurants around town that sell and cook with local olive oils.