Apulia’s cuisine is a vibrant celebration of fresh, simple ingredients that reflect its sunny climate and fertile lands. Olive oil, some of the finest in Italy, is the foundation of most dishes, giving a rich, fruity flavor to everything from salads to roasted vegetables.

Puglia is famous for its orecchiette, small ear-shaped pasta often served with broccoli rabe or tomato sauce. Seafood lovers will enjoy fresh catches like octopus, anchovies, and sea bass, typically grilled or in flavorful stews.

The region’s bread, particularly the rustic pane di Altamura, is legendary for its thick crust and soft interior. Don’t miss focaccia Barese, a delicious flatbread topped with tomatoes, olives, and herbs.

For a sweet finish, try pasticciotto, a creamy custard-filled pastry, or cartellate, delicate fried pastries drizzled with honey or vincotto (a cooked grape must).

Eating in Apulia means tasting the heart of Italian tradition, where every bite tells a story of sun, sea, and centuries-old recipes.