Le Marche, often overshadowed by Italy’s more famous regions, is a hidden gem when it comes to authentic, regional cuisine. The food here is grounded in the land, deeply connected to nature, and steeped in centuries of tradition. Why is Le Marche’s food so good? It’s simple: seasonality, slow food, and local produce. The region’s rich agricultural landscape—fertile plains, rolling hills, vineyards, olive groves, and access to both the Adriatic Sea and the Apennine Mountains—provides a diverse range of high-quality ingredients. From wild herbs and truffles to fresh seafood, Le Marche offers a truly local and sustainable culinary experience.

Why is Le Marche’s Food So Special?

Le Marche’s food is rooted in the concept of slow food—a movement that emphasizes the use of fresh, seasonal, locally grown produce that’s often prepared and served in a traditional manner. It’s a celebration of what the land and sea offer at different times of the year, and every meal is a reflection of the region’s agricultural and cultural history.

Here are some key reasons why the food of Le Marche is so exceptional:

• Seasonality: Local ingredients are celebrated for their seasonality. This means that you’ll experience different flavours and dishes depending on when you visit. Whether it’s the truffle season in autumn or the springtime bounty of fresh vegetables and wild herbs, there’s always something new to try.
• Farm-to-Table: With an emphasis on fresh, local produce, the food here is as sustainable as it is delicious. The region’s agriturismos (farm stays) play a big role in this, offering a direct connection between food, farming, and family tradition.
• Tradition and Innovation: While the region’s culinary traditions are centuries old, chefs in Le Marche also embrace innovation, blending traditional ingredients and techniques with contemporary presentation and flavour combinations.

What Are the Best Dishes to Try in Le Marche?

Le Marche’s cuisine is diverse and hearty, influenced by its landscape and historical exchanges between land and sea. Here are some must-try dishes:

Olive Ascolane (Ascoli-style Stuffed Olives)

One of the region’s most iconic dishes, Olive Ascolane are large green olives stuffed with a mix of meat (usually pork or beef), breaded, and deep-fried to crispy perfection. These savory delights are a perfect appetizer and are enjoyed all over Le Marche, especially in the town of Ascoli Piceno, where they originated.

Shin beef sauce

A traditional Le Marche dish, Shin beef sauce is a rich, slow-cooked sauce served over fresh pasta like tagliatelle. The dish captures the essence of local cooking—using simple, locally-sourced ingredients that are full of flavour often cooked with garlic, rosemary, and a splash of local red wine.

Vincisgrassi

Le Marche’s version of lasagna, Vincisgrassi is a decadent dish made with layers of fresh pasta, béchamel sauce, ragù, and a variety of local meats (including pork, beef, and sometimes chicken). It’s a dish rich in history and flavor, and it’s perfect for a winter feast.

Brodetto (Fish Stew)

As a coastal region, Le Marche is known for its seafood, and brodetto is a classic dish. This fish stew is typically made with various types of fresh fish and shellfish, slow-cooked in a tomato-based broth with olive oil, garlic, and white wine. Each coastal town has its own version of brodetto, with subtle regional variations.

Crescia (Le Marche Flatbread)

Crescia is a type of flatbread that’s typically enjoyed with a filling of cold cuts or cheese. It’s a local favourite in the Pesaro-Urbino area, and each family has its own recipe, often passed down through generations. It’s perfect for a light lunch or as a side to a larger meal.

Truffles (Tartufo)

Le Marche is home to some of Italy’s best truffles, including black truffles and white
truffles. In autumn, truffle hunting becomes a popular activity, and the truffles find their way
into a variety of dishes, from pasta and risotto to meat dishes and even pizzas. The earthy,
rich flavor of truffle is a defining element of the region’s cuisine.

Moscioli (Mussels)

Le Marche’s Moscioli mussels are handpicked from the crystal-clear waters along the coast of the Conero Riviera each day, ensuring that they are as fresh as possible. These mussels are prized for their sweet, delicate flavour and are often served simply with pasta, garlic, olive oil, and a splash of white wine. The unique taste comes from the local waters where they are cultivated, and they’re a true representation of Le Marche’s commitment to fresh, sustainable seafood.
Perfect For: Seafood lovers and anyone looking to savour the Adriatic’s finest offerings.