Italian cuisine is renowned worldwide for its delicious flavors and unique cooking styles. Its vibrant and rich history goes hand in hand with its authentic dishes. Some dishes such as pizza, pasta, and gelato are familiar, but Northern Italian cuisine is a lesser-known specialty that is worth discovering. 

Risotto

Northern Italian food is often served in high-end Italian restaurants. Dishes are often made from scratch using fresh, quality ingredients, including tomatoes, light cream, and Parmesan cheese. Risotto, a staple in Northern Italian cuisine, is a classic dish cooked with Arborio rice and a blend of broth, butter, and cheese. Risotto has been enjoyed throughout Italy for centuries and is a unique product of Northern Italian cooking.

Osso Buco

Another Northern Italian specialty is Osso Buco, which is a famous Milanese dish. This traditional entrée is made by slow-cooking veal shanks in a combination of broth, white wine, and other seasonings until the meat becomes fork-tender and falls off the bone. Osso Buco is served with creamy Risotto alla Milanese, which is saffron-flavored, to perfectly complement its flavors.

Gnocchi

Gnocchi are dumplings made from mashed potatoes, flour, and eggs. They are light, fluffy, and perfect for blending with rich, flavorful sauces. In Northern Italy, the most popular way to serve gnocchi is with a Gorgonzola or tomato sauce, making it an ideal choice for all who enjoy classic Italian restaurant meals.

Pesto

Pesto has quickly become a popular dish across the world, but it originated in Genoa, the capital of Liguria. Northern Italians make pesto from basil, pine nuts, garlic, and olive oil. It is perfect for pasta, pizza, and as a dip for bread. 

Tiramisu

Tiramisu is a scrumptious Northern Italian dessert that never fails to impress. Originating in Northern Italy, tiramisu is made by layering sponge cake with coffee, whipped cream, eggs, and sugar. This combination creates an irresistible taste that melts in your mouth. A quality tiramisu gives a perfect end to a Northern Italian meal.

Northern Italian restaurant specialties encompass a range of ingredients, flavors, and cooking techniques that make dining out in an Italian restaurant an unforgettable experience. From osso buco, risotto, and gnocchi to pesto and tiramisu, these dishes will not disappoint. If you find yourself craving Italian food, visiting a high-end restaurant that caters to Northern Italian cuisine is the way to go.

For more information about Italian food, reach out to an Italian restaurant in your area.