The publication Time Out invited its market chefs to compile a list of the top three culinary capitals. Without hesitation they chose a southern Italian city as their number one.
One of the delights of globetrotting is the opportunity to sample diverse cuisines and immerse oneself in various cultures. Europe, with its rich culinary traditions, never fails to astonish and delight. The ingenuity and creativity of European chefs have rightfully positioned Europe as a top destination for food enthusiasts worldwide.
A particular European city has recently been spotlighted by professional gastronomes for its exceptional culinary offerings. Time Out magazine invited its market chefs to rank the top three gastronomic capitals. Without a moment’s hesitation, they selected a southern Italian city, once home to one of the world’s most renowned footballers, as their top choice.
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Naples, known for its splendid churches, world-class museums, and of course, its cuisine, took the crown, reports the Express. Perhaps the most iconic dish associated with this city is pizza – a creation that originated in Naples in the 19th century as a quick, inexpensive meal for the working class.
Traditional pizzerias, primarily located around Via dei Tribunali, continue to satiate the appetites of Neapolitans today. Pizza remains the most affordable snack in Naples, with a fold-and-go slice costing approximately €1 each.
The Cuoppo Napoletano is another local favourite and is as integral to the city’s identity as the legendary Neapolitan Pizza. The traditional variant is known for a delicious assortment of seafood, which may include petite fishes, prawns, squid, anchovies, with the occasional inclusion of octopus.
It’s typically accompanied by a selection of vegetables, such as courgette blossoms, aubergine, and potato croquettes. Another local delicacy is charmingly called “mozzarella in carrozza”, translating to “mozzarella in a carriage”.
This tempting dish starts with two slices of bread packed full of mozzarella cheese; they’re then dunked in egg, encrusted with breadcrumbs, and deep-fried until achieving a sumptuous golden-brown crust while the mozzarella inside turns into an irresistibly stretchy delight.
Despite these culinary attractions, the city unfortunately bears a reputation for criminal activity and is associated with the Camorra, the infamous regional mafia.
In the global crime index hosted by numbeo.com, Naples finds itself ranked as the fourth most perilous European city. It’s perceived to be riskier than London but not quite as hazardous as Marseille, Coventry or Birmingham.