Off the beaten track, in the hills south of Reggio Emilia, this fantastic little restaurant really gives travelers a sense of discovery and self-sufficiency... at least that's how I felt. I love stumbling into local establishments where I really gain a sense of what the local vibe is like, without the din of tourists.
In business since 1956, Trattoria del Cacciatore feels like a neighborhood fixture. The wooden tables are worn, the tiles are a little scuffed, and every corner of the restaurant seems to tell a story of the countless diners who have walked through the door.
I'm impressed with the diverse menu, offering everything from rabbit stew to steak and potatoes. However, I was really impressed with their Pasta Bolognese. I've sampled many versions of this staple of Italian kitchens, but the texture and flavor from this particular kitchen took me by surprise. The minced beef, tomato, onions and herbs came together in perfect harmony. It wasn't overly acidic, and had a slightly sweet and buttery aftertaste that made me gasp! One wouldn't expect such perfection from a local family eatery, so the lesson here is to never be afraid of venturing outside the well-trod neighborhoods for truly local flavors. read more