# What is the best classic Italian dish?

> Italy's culinary heritage is unrivaled. Which classic Italian dish deserves the top spot?

*By YPB Team · Published May 21, 2026 · https://youpick.best/ranking/what-is-the-best-classic-italian-dish*

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## Current results (no votes yet)

1. **Spaghetti Carbonara**
   The Roman masterpiece of eggs, Pecorino Romano, guanciale, and black pepper — simple yet endlessly debated in its authenticity.
2. **Pizza Margherita**
   The Neapolitan original topped with San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil — the definitive foundation of all pizza.
3. **Risotto alla Milanese**
   Milan's golden rice dish infused with saffron and Parmesan, creamy and regal, traditionally served alongside osso buco.
4. **Osso Buco**
   Milan's hearty slow-braised veal shanks in white wine and vegetables, crowned with bright gremolata for contrast.
5. **Pasta all'Amatriciana**
   The Roman shepherd's pasta of guanciale, Pecorino, and tomatoes — bold, peppery, and fiercely protected by tradition.
6. **Cacio e Pepe**
   Rome's legendary three-ingredient pasta — cheese, pepper, and pasta water — deceptively difficult to master perfectly.
7. **Ragù alla Bolognese**
   Bologna's slow-simmered meat sauce with soffritto, wine, and a touch of milk — the real Bolognese, no tomato paste needed.
8. **Tiramisu**
   The iconic Venetian dessert of espresso-soaked ladyfingers layered with mascarpone cream and dusted with cocoa.
9. **Saltimbocca alla Romana**
   Rome's refined veal cutlets wrapped in prosciutto and sage, pan-fried in white wine — its name meaning 'jumps in the mouth.'
10. **Pasta alla Norma**
   Sicily's beloved pasta with fried eggplant, tomato sauce, basil, and ricotta salata — a perfect expression of Mediterranean flavors.
11. **Lasagna al Forno**
   The layered Emilian classic of flat pasta, Bolognese, béchamel, and Parmigiano-Reggiano — the ultimate comfort centerpiece.
12. **Bistecca alla Fiorentina**
   Tuscany's legendary T-bone steak from Chianina cattle, grilled over charcoal at high heat and served rare with just salt.
13. **Arancini**
   Sicily's golden fried rice balls stuffed with ragù, mozzarella, and peas — beloved street food with crispy breadcrumb shells.

Tags: food, cooking, italy, classics