Ortona's signature waffles are arguably the most significant dessert in this part of the region, and have a history dating back to the 15th century. Also, adding to their exclusivity, the iron used to create the unique design of these waffles is only manufactured in Guardiagrele, a town about 30 miles inland from Ortona.

Nevole are made with flour, olive oil, and mosto cotto, unfiltered grape juice that locals make using traditionally only Regina Bianca grapes—locally known as Pergolona—or, alternatively, grapes of the Trebbiano or Montepulciano variety.

The dough is sometimes additionally flavored with cinnamon and orange zest. Freshly baked, the waffles are rolled into cones and generally served alone, but they can also be stuffed with pastry cream.