TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best European Foods
Italy’s most emblematic culinary creation, the genuine pizza Napoletana is made with just a few simple ingredients and prepared in only two variations – marinara, the basic Neapolitan pizza topped with a tomato-based sauce flavored with garlic and oregano, and margherita, which is topped with tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil leaves, a delicious combination whose colors are said to represent the Italian flag.
The crust is very thin at the base, and the dough puffs up on the sides, which results in airy crust that should have typical charred 'leopard spots' if baked properly. The origins of this iconic Neapolitan dish can be traced to the early 1700s, when what we know today as pizza marinara was first described by Italian chef, writer, and philosopher Vincenzo Corrado in his treatise on the eating habits of the people of Naples.
OTHER VARIATIONS OF Pizza
MOST ICONIC Pizza Napoletana
View moreThis variety of Iberian ham is produced with meat coming from acorn-fed Iberian pigs that are either 75% or 50% pure Iberian breed, meaning they have been crossbred with other pigs such as the Duroc breed. As in the case of jamón 100% ibérico de bellota, the pigs used in the production of this ham are allowed to roam freely across the oak pasturelands in their final rearing stage, known as the montanera, eating an acorn-based diet until they reach the desired weight for the sacrifice, or the matanza as the Spanish call it. Jamón ibérico de bellota makes for about 13% of the total Iberian ham production and is distinguished by a red label.
The designated areas of Iberian bellota ham production include the Dehesa de Extremadura, Salamanca, Huelva, and Valle de Los Pedroches in Spain, along with Barrancos in Portugal.
OTHER VARIATIONS OF Jamón Ibérico
MAIN INGREDIENTS
Loimulohi is a traditional method of preparing salmon or rainbow trout. The fish is smoked on a wooden plank that's placed vertically over an open fire. Before the process, the salmon is usually seasoned with sea salt and drizzled or brushed with lemon juice, honey, or juniper berries.
The cooking time depends on the distance from the coals. Once done, the smoky fish can be eaten straight off the plank.
Pastel de Belém is a traditional egg custard tart and a predecessor to the famous pastel de nata. The tarts are made with a pastry shell that's filled with a combination of milk, eggs, sugar, lemon, and cinnamon. The first recipe for pastel de Belém dates back to 1837 when it was produced by the monks of the Jerónimos monastery.
Only the custard tarts produced at the Fábrica Pastéis de Belém can be called pastel de Belém, while all the others, produced by other patisseries in Lisbon are called pastel de nata. Regardless of the name, these tarts can be served hot or cold and in 2009, The Guardian listed pastel de Belém as one of the 50 'best things to eat' in the world.
OTHER VARIATIONS OF Pastel de nata
This cheese has been produced on the island of Naxos in the Cyclades for at least a century. Graviera Naxou is made from pasteurised cow milk or a mixture of sheep milk and a maximum of 20% goat milk. It has a thin rind and a light yellow, compact interior filled with small holes.
Graviera Naxou is a hard table cheese with a refreshing taste and light aroma. It has a maximum moisture content of 38% and at least 40% fat content. The milk used for its production comes from breeds that are traditionally raised on the island, which feed on a diet of local plants and herbs that give their milk a unique flavor.
MAIN INGREDIENTS
Kontosouvli is a traditional dish consisting of large pieces of pork marinated in a mixture of herbs and spices, then skewered and slowly cooked on a rotisserie, much like a gyro or souvlaki. The marinade often contains ingredients such as garlic, oregano, thyme, rosemary, paprika, olive oil, lemon juice, and red wine.
After marinating, the meat is threaded onto a large skewer and roasted over an open flame, which results in a rich and flavorful outer crust with a juicy, tender interior. The cooked meat is typically served in thick slices, often accompanied by pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and horiatiki salad, among other possible accompaniments.
OTHER VARIATIONS OF Kebab
Pasta 'ncasciata is a traditional pasta dish originating from Sicily. In order to prepare it, pasta such as penne or rigatoni is cooked in boiling water, then strained and mixed with a rich tomato sauce (in Palermo) or a beef ragu (in Messina), cubes of fried eggplant, pieces of cheese such as caciocavallo or mozzarella, and bechamel sauce.
The combination is placed in a springform cake tin, sprinkled with breadcrumbs, then baked until the filling becomes hot. The dish is inverted from the mold and served warm. It's recommended to pair it with a glass of red wine such as Nero d'Avola or Frappato.
Serve with
OTHER VARIATIONS OF Pasta al forno
Pazarske mantije is a Serbian dish originating from Novi Pazar. This dish resembles the Bosnian burek in flavor, but the shape is quite different – it's shaped into small spheres that are arranged in a baking pan and baked together.
The dough is first stretched, brushed with butter, then stuffed with ground beef, salt, pepper, onions, and a bit of oil. Once stuffed, the dough is shaped into small balls, arranged in a pan, then baked, traditionally in old furnaces which give them their unique flavor and aroma.
Mantije are usually accompanied by yogurt that's poured over them and eaten while still hot.
Petrovački kulen is a traditional sausage originating from Bački Petrovac, hence the name. The sausage is made from pork, and the only additions include hot paprika and salt. However, some producers still use garlic and cumin in the production process.
A whole pig is commonly used to produce Petrovački kulen, usually with a ratio of 80% meat to 20% back fat. This meat product has a strong Slovakian culinary influence because they moved to Petrovac in the late 18th century. It's recommended to serve this spicy sausage sliced and paired with homemade bread and local cheese.
OTHER VARIATIONS OF Kulen
Alentejo ham is a regional specialty made from the legs and shoulders of Alentejo pigs produced in the districts of Castelo Branco, Portalegre, Santarém, Évora, Beja, Setubal, and Faro. These areas typically have hot and dry summers and cold winters.
Throughout the centuries, the residents of these regions learned to work with this climate to develop a natural drying process for ham that does not resort to the use of smoke or any other external factors besides the addition of salt. When cut, the ham is reddish-pink to dark red and highly marbled.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best European Food Producers
is a Swiss specialist in raw milk cheese, dedicated to the craft of creating exceptional cheese with a rich, Alpine flavor. Based in Switzerland, the company is known for its high-quality cheeses that combine traditional methods with innovative aging techniques.
Affineur Walo works closely with nature to produce cheeses that reflect the authenticity and purity of Swiss dairy. Their products highlight their commitment to sustainable practices, using raw milk from cows that graze on rich, natural pastures. Each cheese from Affineur Walo is a unique creation, designed to offer a diverse range of textures and flavors, from creamy to firm, often with a characteristic aromatic finish.
AWARDS

World Cheese Awards - Gold
2024, 2023, 2022

World Cheese Awards - Super Gold
2024, 2023, 2022, 2021

International Cheese Awards - Gold
2024, 2023, 2022, 2019
BEST Walo Von Mühlenen Cheeses
Krug is one of the most prestigious and revered Champagne houses, renowned for its unwavering commitment to excellence and the artistry of champagne-making. Founded in 1843 by Johann Joseph Krug, this family-run house has always adhered to a philosophy of uncompromising quality, emphasizing the individuality of each vintage and terroir.
Krug stands apart with its unique approach—each bottle of champagne is crafted from meticulously selected wines from different years and vineyards, creating unparalleled depth, complexity, and richness. Their most iconic champagne, Krug Grande Cuvée, embodies this philosophy, blending up to 200 wines from over 10 different vintages to achieve perfect harmony and sophistication in every edition.
AWARDS

Wine Spectator - 99
2021

Falstaff - 100

Falstaff - 99
BEST Krug Wines
Louis Roederer is one of the most prestigious and oldest independent Champagne houses, synonymous with luxury, tradition, and innovation. Founded in 1776 in the heart of Champagne, in the city of Reims, this family-run house has been nurturing the art of producing exceptional Champagnes for centuries, captivating connoisseurs worldwide.
The true rise of the house began in 1833, when Louis Roederer took over the family business and introduced a revolutionary approach—unlike other producers who purchased grapes, he decided to own and cultivate his own vineyards. This decision allowed him complete control over quality, terroir, and the unique style of his Champagnes, establishing the Louis Roederer brand’s distinctive signature.
AWARDS

Wine Spectator - 98
2022

Falstaff - 100

Falstaff - 99
BEST Louis Roederer Wines
Embutidos Entrepeñas is a family-owned company with over 60 years of tradition, dedicated to the artisanal production of premium cured meats in the heart of the Spanish region of León. Located in the picturesque village of Geras de Gordón, at an altitude of 1,200 meters, the company benefits from exceptional climatic conditions that allow for the natural drying and aging of its meat delicacies.
A perfect blend of traditional techniques and modern quality standards makes each product authentic and unique. Their Cecina de León I. G. P., a delicately cured beef ham with a protected geographical indication, is renowned for its rich flavor and perfect texture, while Chorizo de Geras represents the region’s gastronomic heritage, crafted using time-honored recipes that preserve its intense aroma and distinctive spicy notes.
AWARDS

Great Taste Awards - 3 stars
2024, 2023, 2022
BEST Embutidos Entrepeñas Meat Products
Real Conservera Española is celebrated for its high-quality, artisanal canned seafood, including delicacies like razor clams, mussels, and sardines. Founded in 1920, this family-run company continues to use traditional hand-packing methods, ensuring superior flavor and presentation.
Each product is harvested from the pristine waters of Galicia, renowned for its rich marine life, and is preserved in top-grade olive oil or brine. The brand's commitment to quality has earned it numerous accolades, positioning it as a premium choice in gourmet seafood.
AWARDS

World's 101 Best Canned Products from the Sea - Top 10 Sardines
2024

World's 101 Best Canned Products from the Sea - Top 10 Tuna
2024

World's 101 Best Canned Products from the Sea - Top 10 Mackerels
2024
BEST Real Conservera Española Seafood
Pastificio Benedetto Cavalieri is an esteemed Italian pasta producer located in Maglie, Lecce, within the Apulia region. Established on July 7, 1918, by Benedetto Cavalieri, the company has maintained a commitment to crafting high-quality pasta using traditional methods.
The company employs a "Delicate Method" in its production process, which preserves the nutritional value, flavor, and aroma of the durum wheat. This technique ensures a natural consistency that is highly appreciated by connoisseurs. Their product range includes 32 varieties of durum wheat semolina pasta, featuring notable shapes such as Spaghettoni and Ruote Pazze.
BEST Pastificio Benedetto Cavalieri Pasta
Señorío de Montanera is a leading producer of 100% Iberian products from acorn-fed pigs, holding the prestigious Protected Designation of Origin (D. O.P.) Dehesa de Extremadura. Founded in 1995 by a group of traditional Iberian pig breeders in Extremadura, Spain, the company is dedicated to preserving the purity of the Iberian breed and ensuring the sustainability of the dehesa ecosystem.
The company manages over 60,000 hectares of dehesa, where pigs roam freely and feed exclusively on acorns and natural pastures during the "montanera" season (from October to March). This feeding method contributes to the unique flavor and exceptional quality of their products.
AWARDS

Great Taste Awards - 3 stars
2024, 2023
BEST Señorío de Montanera Meat Products
Monograno Felicetti is the premium pasta line from Felicetti, an Italian pasta manufacturer founded in 1908 in Trentino - South Tyrol. This exclusive collection is made from single-origin organic grains, carefully selected for their unique flavors and nutritional qualities.
Produced using pure Dolomite mountain water and bronze die extrusion, Monograno Felicetti pasta has a rough texture that enhances sauce absorption. It is slowly dried at low temperatures, preserving the natural aroma and integrity of the grains. Known for its superior quality, this pasta is favored by top chefs and gourmet restaurants worldwide.
BEST Monograno Felicetti Pasta
Conservas El Capricho, based in Cantabria, Spain, is renowned for producing some of the world's finest canned anchovies, noted for their premium quality and artisanal processing. This family-owned company is highly selective about its raw ingredients, using only fresh anchovies from the Cantabrian Sea, which are processed by hand to ensure optimal taste and texture.
They emphasize traditional methods, aging the anchovies in sea salt for over a year, which enhances flavor depth. El Capricho’s products are praised for their delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture and balanced saltiness, making them a gourmet favorite.
AWARDS

World's 101 Best Canned Products from the Sea - Top 10 Anchovies
2024

World's 101 Best Canned Products from the Sea - Top 10 Tuna
2024

World's 101 Best Canned Products from the Sea - Top 10 Special Products
2024
BEST Conservas El Capricho Seafood
Nuri - Pinhais is a renowned Portuguese company specializing in the production of premium canned seafood, most famously known for its Nuri brand. With a long-standing tradition, the company has been offering high-quality products for decades, particularly sardines sourced from the pristine waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
Founded with the mission to preserve the authenticity and tradition of Portuguese fishing, Conservas Nuri - Pinhais uses techniques passed down through generations. Their products are carefully prepared by hand, with fish selected and processed to retain their freshness and natural flavor.
AWARDS

World's 101 Best Canned Products from the Sea - Top 10 Sardines
2024

World's 101 Best Canned Products from the Sea - Top 10 Mackerels
2024
BEST Nuri - Pinhais Seafood
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best European Food Products
+55 Crema di Nocciola from Guido Castagna is a premium Italian hazelnut spread, renowned for its rich flavor and high-quality ingredients. It contains 55% Piemonte IGP hazelnuts, which are considered some of the best in the world due to their intense flavor.
Unlike many commercial spreads, +55 Crema di Nocciola is free from palm oil, focusing instead on natural and sustainable components. This spread is characterized by its smooth texture and a deep, roasted nuttiness, enhanced by the use of raw cane sugar and cocoa butter.
AWARDS

International Chocolate Awards - Silver
2017

International Chocolate Awards - Gold
2024, 2023, 2022, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012

Tavoletta D'Oro -
2021, 2018, 2017, 2016
AWARDS

World Cheese Awards - Super Gold
2022, 2021

International Cheese Awards - Gold
2022

World Cheese Awards - Gold
2022
Spenwood cheese, produced by Village Maid Cheese is a distinguished artisanal cheese crafted from unpasteurised ewe's milk using vegetarian rennet. This firm cheese is matured for about 7-8 months, developing a thin, natural rind during the process.
Its flavor profile is rich and nutty with sweet and savory notes, and it becomes more piquant and slightly crumbly as it ages, making it a great substitute for Parmesan in various dishes. Spenwood is often compared to Mediterranean cheeses like Pecorino and Manchego due to its texture and taste.
It has received significant recognition in the cheese world, having been awarded Super Gold at the World Cheese Awards.
AWARDS

World Cheese Awards - Super Gold
2022, 2021

Culture Cheese Magazine Best Cheeses issue - Best
2023
Gorgonzola DOP Dolce Al Cucchiaio made by De’ Magi is a type of blue cheese known for its creamy texture and sweet, mild flavor. This Italian cheese is protected by the Denomination of Protected Origin (DOP) status, ensuring it is produced within a specific geographic area and adheres to traditional methods.
The production involves a shorter aging process compared to its spicier counterpart, Gorgonzola Piccante, resulting in a softer, more spreadable cheese.
AWARDS

World Cheese Awards - Super Gold
2022

Concours International de Lyon - Gold
2025

Culture Cheese Magazine Best Cheeses issue - Best
2023
Suprema de Cecina is a premium cured meat product from Spain, renowned for its exceptional quality and flavor. It is made from carefully selected cuts of beef, which are shaped before drying to achieve an almost rectangular form, ideal for slicing into thin pieces.
What sets this cecina apart is the slight marbling of fat, similar to that found in Iberian ham, which enhances its juiciness and richness of flavor. The product is the result of a long and natural drying process, free from additives, preservatives, or artificial coloring, ensuring authenticity and purity.
AWARDS

Great Taste Awards - 3 stars
2024, 2023, 2022
Krug is a champagne of remarkable elegance and depth, perfectly embodying the unique character of one of the freshest and most classically styled vintages in Champagne in recent decades. Created in a year with the fewest hours of sunshine in nearly half a century, this vintage was nicknamed “Classic Beauty” by the House of Krug for its superb balance of tension, finesse, and structure.
The blend is composed of 53% Pinot Noir, 25% Meunier, and 22% Chardonnay, resulting in a complex and harmonious wine with a deep golden hue, exceptional aromatic range, and luxurious texture. On the nose, it reveals rich notes of honey, licorice, menthol, orange zest, and grapefruit, while the palate offers vibrancy and elegance with flavors of quince, candied citrus, yellow kiwi, baked apple, herbal nuances, and floral undertones.
AWARDS

Falstaff - 100

Falstaff - 99

Vivino - 4.7
Barber's Vintage Farmhouse Cheddar produces Vintage Cheddar, which is well-known for being one of the oldest cheddar cheese makers in the world, originating in Somerset, England. Their Vintage Cheddar is typically aged for up to 24 months and is celebrated for its rich, complex flavor profile.
This cheese features a distinctively sharp taste with a creamy yet crumbly texture. Barber's unique use of traditional starter cultures, which have been maintained and propagated since the 1950s, contribute to the depth and intensity of the flavor.
This product is also notable for holding a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status, ensuring that it is authentically crafted using time-honored methods and locally sourced milk.
AWARDS

World Cheese Awards - Gold
2021

Global Cheese Awards - Gold
2024, 2023, 2019

International Cheese Awards - Gold
2024
AWARDS

World Cheese Awards - Gold
2024

International Cheese Awards - Gold
2024, 2023, 2022
Jura Mountain cheese is a product created by Walo von Mühlenen, a company renowned for its expertise in aging and refining cheeses. The cheese is made from cow's milk and reflects the rich traditions of Swiss cheesemaking. It is aged to develop a complex flavor profile, with creamy and nutty undertones and a smooth texture.
The aging process takes place in specialized facilities to ensure the cheese attains its characteristic depth of flavor and unique aroma.
AWARDS

World Cheese Awards - Super Gold
2023

World Cheese Awards - Gold
2024
Roter Teufel Extra is a distinctive and highly regarded hard cheese produced by Güntensperger Käse in Switzerland. This cheese is known for its intense aroma, which results from a long aging process and high-quality ingredients. Roter Teufel Extra is very intense and spicy, with a rich, creamy texture.
Over time, as it ages, its flavor becomes more pronounced and stronger. It is a cheese for those who enjoy stronger, spicier varieties. The cheese is firm and dense, but it has a slightly crumbly structure, which is characteristic of longer-aged cheeses.
AWARDS

World Cheese Awards - Super Gold
2021

World Cheese Awards - Gold
2024
TasteAtlas food rankings are based on the ratings of the TasteAtlas audience, with a series of mechanisms that recognize real users and that ignore bot, nationalist or local patriotic ratings, and give additional value to the ratings of users that the system recognizes as knowledgeable. For the “Top 100 European Foods” list until April 27, 2025, 294,461 ratings were recorded, of which 214,187 were recognized by the system as legitimate. TasteAtlas Rankings should not be seen as the final global conclusion about food. Their purpose is to promote excellent local foods, instill pride in traditional dishes, and arouse curiosity about dishes you haven’t tried.