Welcome to our first issue of the Language Exepress!

10 unmissable things in Italy… I guess, the list would vary according to the individual. Botticelli’s ‘Birth of Venus’ will either make you yawn or leave you breathless, however, the one thing that doesn’t leave room for subjectivity is how good for the soul a traditional plate of polenta taragna is.

 

I can’t speak for every city and region in Italy but as far as Bergamo is concerned, should the walls of the old city not be enough to entice you, maybe this carefully curated list from my year long quest to find the best places to eat will:

 

Local café in Borgo Santa Caterina, in Via Alberico da Rosciate

 

I feel that you’re pretty much guaranteed a good cup of espresso anywhere you go but no one does early morning brioches better than this quaint little café. If you’re there early enough, make sure to get the white chocolate sprinkled crème-filled brioche with your morning coffee! This will be the best 2,10 € you will ever spend.

 

Trattoria Caprese

 

What to order: paccheri al pistacchio con salsiccia e provola

 

I can’t even begin to find the words to describe how exquisite this dish is. Essentially, if you’re craving a hearty plate of pasta surrounded by an explosively rich in flavour, creamy pistachio sauce with Italian sausage and soft cheese, then Trattoria Caprese is the place to be.

 

Lalimentari

 

What to order: manzo brasato con polenta taragna

 

Polenta is a staple traditional dish originating from Northern Italy. I used to think that it was imperative to try all available possibilities before concluding anything but after having tasted Lalimentari’s polenta taragna with braised beef, I’ve changed my mind. Enhanced even further with a lovely glass of dry red wine.