SSC Bari – who hail from a city known for its seafood – have been serving up the unusual delicacy for years, with fans split on whether it looks delicious or disgusting
British football fans have been left gobsmacked to find out about the unconventional half-time snack being served up at Italian Serie B side, Bari.
Nestled in the south east, Bari, with its position on the Adriatic Sea is known for its mouth-watering seafood dishes including the classic ‘patate, riso e cozze’ (potato with mussels). However, it is now gaining online attention for an entirely different delicacy.
Octopus sandwich, a dish which can be snapped up for just €8 (£6.65 approx.) caused a stir after a photo of one was shared by Facebook’s Football Away Days account with the caption: “Octopus sandwich at Italian club SSC Bari. €8.00.”
One person commented in response: “Very popular in Bari, which has a distinct cuisine to the rest of Italia. So delicious, loved it as well many other sandwiches there.”
Another, spoke from experience: “Worked in Bari for a year in the early 90s. The food in the city, and the whole region of Puglia, is absolutely incredible.”
A third claimed: “It’s in Italy so there’s a high chance that for 8 euros you could have the most delicious meal you’ve had in your entire life.” Whilst a fourth fan added the broader sentiment, asking: “Why do Italians just get it right with food… every single time.”
However, not everyone was enamoured by the tentacled treat, with one critic saying responding: “I’d rather do a day’s work then eat that.” And a second hit out: “Very clever animal. Wouldn’t eat it. Probably a bigger IQ then most humans who eat ’em.”
Paying tribute to the creature, meanwhile, SSC Bari released two special edition kits in 2023, each adorned with a stylish octopus motif. Created by Kappa and designer Leo Colacicco, the red and white striped home shirt subtly features tentacle prints within its design, while the goalkeeper’s teal kit is boldly covered with swirling tentacles.
One kit collector was left buzzing on X: “Just collected both Bari octopus limited edition shirts – I AM DONE,” showcasing their new prized possessions. Another asked followers to share their favourite kits, writing: “Curious about everyone’s favourite modern football shirt in their collection. The word modern is of course debatable, but let’s say a shirt from the past ten years. Mine is the Bari octopus shirt.”
A third supporter posted a snap of their newly purchases shirt, adding: “Bari 2023 by Kappa. Octopus tentacles as part of the design. Retro collar. A thing of beauty.” And a fourth tweeted their admiration for the intricate design: “This SSC Bari Limited Edition Kappa x LC23 pre match shirt is stunning. Check out the incredibly detailed octopus pattern throughout, with the cephalopod a symbol of the city of Bari.”
