Italy.

My favorite place on Earth. Not only does this country have an exciting history and beautiful architecture, but it also has amazing food. If you ever find yourself hungry and in Italy, remember this list.

Spaghetti (My Favorite)

Spaghetti in Italy is different than it is in America. Here in the U.S., we usually have meat and chunks of tomato in our sauce. In Italy, however, your classic bowl of spaghetti only contains noodles (al dente, of course) and tomato sauce with a sprig of basil on top. You might be surprised that the sauce is orange and not red, but trust me, it is the best spaghetti you will ever have in your life.

Arrabbiata

You might be wondering, “why are there two different pastas with red sauce?”, because they are completely different and both deserve a spot on this list. This pasta is spicy and usually has diced vegetables in it. Personally, I think the spicier the better, but it is smart to ask exactly how spicy the restaurant makes it. You don’t want to remember your mouth being on fire instead of the delicious pasta, so if you are afraid of it being too hot, ask the server to tone down the spices.

Pizza Margherita

This is not like pizza here in the U.S. that is loaded with cheese and does not have much sauce. A classic pizza Margherita has sauce and slices of real mozzarella cheese laid on top with leaves of basil strategically placed (maybe not strategically, but you usually have at least one leaf per slice). AKA heaven.

Gelato

If you like ice cream and really love sugar, you will fall in love with gelato. Gelato has less fat than American ice cream but has more milk that makes it softer. I’m not going to explain the science of it here though. I’m just telling you how yummy it is.

Espresso

If you’re not really hungry and maybe just want a snack, go to that cute café on the corner (of literally any street) and order a true Italian coffee or an espresso along with a cannoli. WARNING: Italian coffee is way stronger than what Americans are usually used to (or at least every American that I’ve gone to Italy with). You will feel as if you have been jumpstarted with energy and you’re ready to continue adventuring. Because Italian coffee is stronger and more bitter, eat something sweet along with it, like the aforementioned cannoli. These are five staples that must be consumed during your stay in Italy. Though you will miss it when you get home and complain that “this isn’t real spaghetti!”, you will appreciate the art that is Italian food (and maybe even dream about it). I know I do.