ADRIATICO

Paola Bacchia, $65

This Melbourne food blogger’s homage to the cuisine of her father’s homeland is steeped in local knowledge, tradition and nostalgia. Paola – who returns to Italy every year to reacquaint her palate – takes us along the Adriatic coast, chronicling the different eating styles along the way. “Vegetables dominate the traditional cuisine of the Gargano”; on the Conero Riviera “the food is richer than the more southern part of the Adriatic”. Dishes that reflect the diversity of terrain and ingredients include Beef Goulash Trieste Style; Tagliatelle with Porcini and Clams; Fish and Potato Stew; and Venetian Apple Cake.