The heel of Italy’s boot[, Apulia,](https://www.livetheworld.com/post/4-towns-not-to-miss-in-apulia-lbmd) is a must-visit region for every "foodie"! Italy is world-famous for its delicious cuisine and food inventions. The southern-Italian region is particularly popular for the [“cucina povera”](https://www.livetheworld.com/post/apulian-cuisine-ihzk) (poor kitchen), using local, seasonal ingredients, which are then turned into simple, but incredibly tasteful dishes. 

The region is quite big and perfect for a "culinary [road trip" ](https://www.livetheworld.com/post/an-apulian-3-day-trip-starting-point-bari-1sl3)since each zone is known for a different specialty. Regardless of where you will stay in Apulia, your taste buds won’t be disappointed; of course, there are a few [delicacies ](https://www.livetheworld.com/post/apulian-cuisine-ihzk)which you can’t miss out!

b7f65820-5bdc-4816-b07e-669ed172bca1-istock-913492408-1.jpg

The town is a popular tourist destination because of the famous [Castel del Monte](https://www.livetheworld.com/post/castel-del-monte-the-castle-depicted-on-the-italian-coin-gjck). Andria is not just a historically interesting place but also happens to be the birthplace of “burrata”. A burrata is a mozzarella-like cheese filled with liquid cream and mozzarella strings. In the last few years, it started becoming available also internationally, however, its freshness and taste in the original burrata-town can't be beaten! 

Andria

When the Emperor Frederick II built this castle near Bari in the 13th century, he imbued it with symbolic significance, as reflected in the location, the mathematical and astronomical precision of the layout and the perfectly regular shape. A unique piece of medieval military architecture, Castel del Monte is a successful blend of elements from classical antiquity, the Islamic Orient and north European Cistercian Gothic.

https://itinari-images.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/activity/images/original/cf8776ab-8e88-429c-93d0-f3a0868f74d5-istock-492726042.jpg

Castel del Monte

As soon as you arrive in [Bari](https://www.livetheworld.com/post/explore-bari-a-metropolis-with-an-historic-charm-vgp3), the biggest city of [Apulia](https://www.livetheworld.com/post/5-things-to-keep-in-mind-before-visiting-apulia-h5tx), you have to try the focaccia barese – a typical take-away snack. It is similar to a fluffy pizza dough with baked olives and tomatoes and a crispy base.  Focaccia barese is a widely appreciated finger food not just in Bari, but throughout the entire region. Yet one of the best focaccia can be found in the small bakery “Santa Rita” in Bari’s old town.

Bari

### Panificio Santa Rita: The Hidden Gem of Bari

If you're a food lover and find yourself in the charming historical center of Bari, Italy, there's one place you absolutely must visit: Panificio Santa Rita. Tucked away in this bustling city, this small bakery is known for serving some of the best focaccia in town, making it a popular spot among locals and tourists alike.

#### A Taste of Tradition

Panificio Santa Rita has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. Since its opening, this family-owned bakery has been passed down through generations, with each one preserving the traditional recipes and techniques that have made their focaccia so famous.

What sets Panificio Santa Rita apart from other bakeries is their commitment to using only the finest ingredients. The dough is made from scratch daily, using locally sourced flour and extra virgin olive oil, giving their focaccia a unique and delicious flavor. Whether you prefer the classic plain focaccia or want to try one topped with tomatoes, olives, or onions, you won't be disappointed.

#### Immerse Yourself in the Culinary Heritage

Visiting Panificio Santa Rita is not just about indulging in their mouthwatering focaccia; it's also an opportunity to experience the rich culinary heritage of Bari. As you step inside the bakery, you'll be greeted by the warm aroma of freshly baked bread and the sight of locals chatting and enjoying their favorite treats. It's a true slice of Italian life.

#### Exploring Bari

While in Bari, there are plenty of other attractions to explore. Take a stroll through the charming old town, where you'll discover Romanesque churches and medieval piazzas. Don't miss the chance to visit the beautiful St. Nicola's Basilica, home to the remains of Saint Nicholas, one of the most beloved saints.

For a leisurely walk, head to the seaside promenade and enjoy the stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. The bustling pedestrian shopping area is also worth a visit, where you can find local crafts, souvenirs, and of course, more delicious food.

#### When to Visit

To make the most of your visit to Panificio Santa Rita, be sure to arrive early in the morning when the bakery opens. This way, you can savor the warm focaccia straight out of the oven, still crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Pair it with a cup of freshly brewed Italian coffee for the perfect breakfast or snack.

#### The Hidden Gem of Bari

Whether you're a foodie looking for an authentic culinary experience or simply a traveler seeking to immerse yourself in the local culture, Panificio Santa Rita is a must-visit destination in Bari. Don't miss the opportunity to taste their famous focaccia and discover why it's considered the hidden gem of the city.

So, next time you find yourself in Bari, make sure to seek out Panificio Santa Rita and indulge in their delectable focaccia. Your taste buds will thank you for it!

https://itinari-images.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/activity/images/original/f38b2cd8-2a91-4273-8bec-8fdcdef1694a-istock-819654234.jpg

Panificio Santa Rita

The small town has a beautiful historical center but is mainly off the tourist radar. “The city of olives”, as Corato is called, has the best freshly pressed olive oil and [olives of](https://www.livetheworld.com/post/the-gold-of-apulia-e6a9) the region. Olive oil lovers should check-in an extra suitcase in advance, in order to take the delicious, healthy and organic oil with them, as a tasty and typical souvenir. 

b64120d4-ecf1-4e52-aee0-5bbbe9ce2b87-istock-576732962.jpg

Corato

### Discover the Authentic Taste of Corato at Tandoi Francesco - Frantoio Oleario

Nestled in the charming town of Corato, also known as "the city of olives," Tandoi Francesco - Frantoio Oleario is a hidden gem that offers visitors a unique and authentic experience. This small shop is a testament to the rich olive oil production that has made Corato famous throughout Italy and beyond.

### A City Steeped in Olive Oil Tradition

Corato's reputation as the "city of olives" stems from its long-standing tradition of olive oil production. The town's favorable climate and fertile soil create the perfect conditions for cultivating olive trees, resulting in exceptional quality olive oil. Tandoi Francesco takes great pride in continuing this tradition, producing extra virgin non-filtered olive oil exclusively from olives grown in his local fields.

### Taste the Difference

One of the highlights of visiting Tandoi Francesco - Frantoio Oleario is the opportunity to sample their exquisite olive oil. The shop offers a range of options, from glass bottles to convenient 5-liter canisters, allowing visitors to take home a taste of Corato's liquid gold. The extra virgin olive oil produced here is renowned for its rich flavor, smooth texture, and distinct aroma, making it a must-try for any food enthusiast.

### Immerse Yourself in the Olive Oil Making Process

For those curious about the olive oil production process, a visit to Tandoi Francesco's shop provides a fascinating insight. You can witness the meticulous care and attention that goes into every step, from the harvesting of the olives to the pressing and bottling of the oil. Tandoi Francesco is always happy to share his knowledge and passion for olive oil, making your visit an educational and engaging experience.

### Explore Corato and Beyond

While in Corato, take the opportunity to explore the town's other attractions. Wander through the picturesque streets lined with historic buildings, such as the stunning Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. Admire the architectural features and immerse yourself in the rich history of this charming town.

If you're looking to venture further afield, Corato is conveniently located near other notable destinations. The nearby Trani, with its beautiful harbor and impressive Romanesque cathedral, is a must-visit. And for nature lovers, the Alta Murgia National Park offers breathtaking landscapes and hiking trails, providing a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

### When to Visit

Tandoi Francesco - Frantoio Oleario is open year-round, allowing visitors to experience the olive oil production process regardless of the season. However, if you want to witness the olive harvest in full swing, plan your visit between October and November. During this time, the town comes alive with the vibrant colors and bustling activity of the olive harvest, offering a truly immersive experience.

### Conclusion

Tandoi Francesco - Frantoio Oleario is a hidden treasure in the heart of Corato, offering visitors a chance to discover the authentic taste of this olive oil-rich region. From sampling the exceptional olive oil to learning about the production process, a visit to this small shop is a journey into the heart and soul of Corato's olive oil tradition. So, make sure to include Tandoi Francesco - Frantoio Oleario on your itinerary when exploring the beautiful town of Corato and its surroundings.

https://itinari-images.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/activity/images/original/cde35eba-0de0-4a45-8047-360db578cf1f-istock-988348526.jpg

Tandoi Francesco - Frantoio Oleario

The[ city of baroque](https://www.livetheworld.com/post/lecce-experience-the-city-s-unique-charm-z0vb) and golden sandstone in the [Salento peninsula](https://www.livetheworld.com/post/the-best-beaches-in-salento-lmpg) has a few typically local highlights. One of them is the rustico, a puff pastry disc filled with tomato, mozzarella and bechamel sauce – heavy but delicious. The sweet local specality is pasticciotto leccese, a sweet pastry filled with cream. For the full culinary lecce experience, order a caffé leccese - a black espresso sweetened with almond syrup and ice cubes- along with the pasticciotto. The historical Caffé Alvino is one of the most authentic places to enjoy these treats. 

5390ccfd-c289-4af5-954e-5a895d77981c-istock-1139067920.jpg

Lecce

Caffè Alvino is one of the most historic Cafés in the heart of Lecce. It is located directly at Piazza Sant Oronzo and is offering a great view on the amphitheater.

https://itinari-images.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/activity/images/original/a5271c3b-317f-4af5-82e4-b559c3a01eda-istock-859600310.jpg

Caffè Alvino

Wherever you go in the [southern-Italian region](https://www.livetheworld.com/post/4-towns-not-to-miss-in-apulia-lbmd), the cuisine throughout [Apulia with ](https://www.livetheworld.com/post/4-towns-not-to-miss-in-apulia-lbmd)its local, fresh, simple and traditional dishes,  will never disappoint.

Title Picture © Credits to iStock/La_vanda

Once the core of the mighty Roman Empire, and the cradle of the Renaissance, it is also home to the greatest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world, including high art and monuments. Italy is famous for its delicious cuisine, it's trendy fashions, luxury sports cars and motorcycles, diverse regional cultures and dialects, as well as for its various sceneries from the seas to the Alps and Apennines, all reasons why it got nickcoded Il Bel Paese (the Beautiful Country). One of the great things about Italy is that its long thin shape means that when you get fed up with sightseeing you are often a relatively short distance from a beach. In many of the more popular areas, large sections of beach are reserved as paid beaches. Italy is full of differents cultures you can see: Etruscan Italy, The Greek influence, Roman ruins, Christian Italy, The Byzantine cities and The Renaissance.

Italy

e31b7a83-52b9-4302-878f-6ce5409699a1-istock-1071315486.jpg

When it comes to the culinary scene, we’ve got you covered with a list of dining and drinking experiences to take your tastebuds on a journey through {{area}}! Searching for the best local markets with yummy stalls? Curious about cooking classes, or wondering which traditional drinks and bites to try out? Our community of locals have some tasty recommendations for you.

Taste This 

Eat & drink your way through {{area}}

Food & Drinks

Are you ready to get inspired by a world of art, design and culture? From creative hubs filled with the best galleries, museums, and ongoing exhibitions, to imaginative centres and workshops frequented by locals - check out the coolest curated spaces in {{area}}. 
The scene here is dynamic and endlessly evolving, whether you're an architecture admirer, a culture vulture, or an art and design enthusiast. Feed your creative side and dive right in! 

Top Spots for all Things Creative

Indulge your senses in art galleries, museums, and experience the cultural side of {{area}}

Art & Culture

Beaches, national parks, urban parks, forests, dunes, heathlands - you name it! We've lined up the best of locally recommended nature activities in {{area}} that are sure to get some fresh air in those lungs! If it's anything you can explore and do in the great outdoors, you can plan it here.

The Grass is Always Greener 

Explore the outdoors in and around {{area}}

Nature

All of the landmarks, viewpoints, monuments, city skylines, and hidden gems at your fingertips! These are the places that will astound your sight and senses,  and would also make a pretty Instastory. 
From urban architecture to natural wonders, explore the must-see spots in {{area}}, and revel in the beauty that surrounds you here.

See it to Believe it

Find the best viewpoints, monuments, and hidden gems in {{area}}

Sightseeing

a-culinary-trip-through-apulia-teyk_image

A culinary trip through Apulia

sandramarx121@hotmail.com.jpg

My name is Sandra and I grew up in Austria. I love foreign languages, exploring new places and spending time with friends. After graduating I took a gap year to travel the world. I am very lucky that I was able to see a lot of countries already but Italy always had a particular fascination for me. Having a distant relationship for 4 years, I decided to quit my corporate career in the field of Marketing and to start a Bed and Breakfast in Puglia with my partner. Working in the field of tourism and with a local by my side I will tell you about all my favorite places and I hope that this wonderful and authentic region will fascinate you.

A culinary trip through Apulia

Andria - burrata

Bari - focaccia barese

Corato - olive oil

Lecce - rustico & pasticciotto

Book a nearby experience

Let our AI assistant help plan your trip

NAVIGATION

CONTACT US