A Culinary and Cultural Journey Through Parma

Last Bites of Parma

As our culinary journey through Parma draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we’ve had. Today was all about savoring those last moments, diving deep into the region's famed produce, and enjoying a final taste of the local cuisine. It’s hard to believe our ten days here are already up, but we’re determined to make the most of every last minute. Élodie and I are already planning our return, perhaps in the spring when the countryside is in full bloom.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Osteria La Gatta Matta. The charming atmosphere and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee were the perfect start. Élodie, with her pastry chef's discerning palate, particularly enjoyed the homemade pastries. I opted for a classic Italian breakfast of cappuccino and a cornetto, which fueled us up for the day’s adventures.

Acetaia Giusti - A Journey Through Balsamic History

Our first stop was Acetaia Giusti, the oldest balsamic vinegar producer in the world. The tour was an immersive experience, taking us through the history of the Giusti family and the intricate process of making balsamic vinegar. The air was thick with the sweet and tangy scent of vinegar aging in wooden barrels. We learned that the tradition of balsamic vinegar-making in Modena dates back centuries, with the Giusti family perfecting their craft since 1605.


Explore the rich tradition of balsamic vinegar making at Acetaia Giusti, a historic gem in Modena, Italy, known for its exquisite flavors and craftsmanship.

The tour guide explained that true balsamic vinegar is made from the must of Trebbiano and Lambrusco grapes, cooked down to a syrup and aged in a series of barrels made from different woods, each imparting its unique flavor. The aging process can last for decades, with some vinegars aged for over 100 years! We had the opportunity to taste several different ages and grades of balsamic vinegar, each with its distinct flavor profile. Élodie was particularly fascinated by the nuances in flavor, noting the hints of cherry, oak, and vanilla in the older vinegars.

The best balsamic vinegar is extracted after years of ageing and blending with vinegars kept for centuries in the oldest barrels.

I was struck by the dedication and passion of the Giusti family, who have preserved their traditions for generations. It's clear that balsamic vinegar-making is not just a business for them; it's a way of life. We purchased a bottle of their aged balsamic vinegar to take home, a perfect reminder of our time in Parma. I can already imagine drizzling it over salads, grilled vegetables, and even Élodie's desserts!

The Sweet History of Tomatoes

Next, we ventured to the Museum of Tomato, a quirky and fascinating tribute to this beloved fruit. Located in an old monastery, the museum traces the history of the tomato from its origins in the Americas to its adoption into Italian cuisine. The exhibits showcased vintage canning equipment, posters, and artifacts, illustrating the tomato's journey from a curiosity to a culinary staple.


Discover the rich heritage of tomatoes in Italy at the Museum of Tomato in Collecchio, a delightful journey through culinary history and culture.

I learned that the tomato arrived in Europe in the 16th century but wasn't widely used in cooking until the 18th century. It was initially grown as an ornamental plant, with some people even believing it to be poisonous! It wasn't until the late 18th century that Italians began incorporating tomatoes into their sauces and dishes, revolutionizing their cuisine.

Élodie was particularly interested in the displays showcasing different varieties of tomatoes and their uses in various sauces and preserves. As a pastry chef, she appreciated the creativity and resourcefulness of Italian cooks, who have found countless ways to incorporate tomatoes into their culinary repertoire. We left the museum with a newfound appreciation for the humble tomato and its significant role in Italian gastronomy.

A Culinary Gem at Antica Corte Pallavicina Relais

Our final stop of the day was Antica Corte Pallavicina Relais, a stunning estate that combines a Michelin-starred restaurant with a historic hotel. The relais is located in a beautifully restored castle on the banks of the Po River. The setting was idyllic, with peacocks roaming the grounds and a sense of tranquility that was a welcome respite from the bustling city.


Discover the enchanting Antica Corte Pallavicina Relais, a captivating farmstay and castle that offers a unique blend of history and culinary excellence in Emilia-Romagna.

We explored the estate, including its famed culatello cellars, where the prized cured meat is aged. The cellars were a fascinating sight, with rows upon rows of culatello hanging from the rafters, each one slowly developing its unique flavor. The air was cool and damp, with a distinct aroma of cured meat and aging cheese. I learned that culatello is made from the muscular part of the pig's thigh, carefully seasoned and aged for months, even years. The result is a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth delicacy that is a true testament to the art of Italian charcuterie.

For lunch, we dined at Ristorante Atmosfera Parma, known for its blend of Greek and Italian cuisines. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the staff were incredibly friendly. We started with a selection of Greek mezes, including tzatziki, hummus, and dolmades, followed by a traditional Parmesan dish. The combination of flavors was a delightful surprise, and Élodie and I both agreed that it was one of the best meals we've had on our trip.


Discover authentic Greek flavors at Ristorante Atmosfera Parma, where every dish tells a story of tradition and taste.

Shopping and Sipping: Last Tastes of Parma

After our delightful lunch, Élodie and I decided to do a little shopping before our final dinner. We stopped by CALEIDOS borse e accessori - PARMA, where Élodie found a beautiful leather handbag. The shop had a wide selection of stylish and well-crafted accessories, and Élodie was thrilled with her purchase.


Explore CALEIDOS in Parma for exquisite handbags and accessories, where Italian craftsmanship meets contemporary fashion.

Before dinner, we decided to relax and unwind at Mb Mattì’s Bar Parma. The bar had a cozy and inviting atmosphere, and the bartender mixed us some delicious cocktails. It was the perfect way to wind down and reflect on our amazing trip.


Discover the vibrant nightlife of Parma at Mb Mattì’s Bar, where exceptional drinks and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.

A Farewell Feast at Ristorante Parma Rotta

For our final dinner in Parma, we chose Ristorante Parma Rotta, a renowned establishment known for its traditional Emilian cuisine. The restaurant was located in a charming old farmhouse, with a rustic and welcoming atmosphere. The menu featured a variety of local specialties, and we were eager to sample some of Parma's most famous dishes.


Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Parma Rotta, where tradition meets elegance in every dish.

We started with tortelli di erbetta, pasta stuffed with fresh greens, a local favorite. The pasta was perfectly cooked, and the filling was flavorful and satisfying. For our main courses, Élodie ordered the parmigiana, while I opted for the pappardelle. Both dishes were expertly prepared and showcased the region's culinary heritage. We finished our meal with a delicious gelato and zuppa inglese, a traditional Italian dessert.

Parma Rotta is not merely a restaurant; it is a haven of gastronomic delight that welcomes you with open arms into its family-friendly atmosphere.

As we savored our final bites, we reminisced about our ten days in Parma. We had explored historic sites, indulged in culinary tours, and immersed ourselves in the local culture. Parma had exceeded our expectations, and we were already planning our return. As we walked back to our hotel, the Novotel Parma Centro, we felt a sense of contentment and gratitude for the experiences we had shared.


Experience a blend of modern comfort and rich cultural heritage at Novotel Parma Centro, just steps from the city's top attractions and dining.

Tomorrow, we bid farewell to Parma and begin our journey back to Montreal. While we're sad to leave this beautiful city, we're excited to return home and share our adventures with friends and family. We’ll carry the flavors and memories of Parma with us, inspiring our cooking and travels for years to come. À bientôt, Parma! Until we meet again.

The only thing left to do is pack our bags and prepare for our early morning train. I am sure we will be dreaming of Parma tonight!