Food Archives - Amy's Passport

Europe is home to several remarkably old restaurants that have been serving customers for centuries. These establishments have witnessed history unfold and have retained their charm, traditions, and culinary excellence throughout the years. Here are a few of the oldest restaurants in the world:

St. Peter Stiftskulinarium – Salzburg, Austria

Dating back to the year 803, St. Peter Stiftskulinarium is considered one of the oldest restaurants in Europe. Located within the St. Peter’s Abbey complex, it has been serving traditional Austrian cuisine for over 1,200 years. The restaurant features a historic ambiance, including medieval vaulted ceilings and a charming beer garden.

sobrino de botin restaurant madrid spain — Credit: Food & Wine

Sobrino de Botín – Madrid, Spain

Founded in 1725, Sobrino de Botín is recognized by the Guinness World Records as the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the world. Famous for its roasted suckling pig and lamb, Botín has been serving these signature dishes for nearly three centuries. Its rustic interiors and traditional Spanish cuisine make it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and food lovers alike.

la couronne restaurant rouen france — Credit: TripAdvisor

La Couronne – Rouen, France

Founded in 1345, this historic establishment has been serving patrons for over 675 years. La Couronne has a fascinating history and has welcomed famous figures such as Richard the Lionheart, Joan of Arc, and Gustave Flaubert. The restaurant specializes in traditional French cuisine, including classic dishes like escargots, sole meunière, and coq au vin. Its timeless ambiance and culinary excellence continue to attract diners seeking a taste of French gastronomic heritage.

Zum Franziskaner – Stockholm, Sweden

Established in 1421, Zum Franziskaner is one of the oldest restaurants in Sweden. Situated in Stockholm’s Old Town since 1910, this historic eatery offers a menu featuring classic Swedish dishes like herring, cured salmon, and traditional meatballs. The building itself has a rich history, having served as a tavern, an inn, and even a pharmacy over the centuries.

The Brazen Head – Dublin, Ireland

The Brazen Head claims to be Ireland’s oldest pub, with records dating back to 1198. While it started as a pub, it now operates a restaurant as well. Located in Dublin, The Brazen Head is steeped in history and Irish folklore, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The establishment serves a range of Irish dishes, accompanied by live traditional music.

These venerable establishments stand as testaments to the enduring power of good food, warm hospitality, and a commitment to preserving culinary traditions. Visiting these historic restaurants provides a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience centuries-old flavors and ambiance.

Naples, the vibrant city in southern Italy, is renowned as the birthplace of pizza. The history of this beloved Italian dish is deeply rooted in the streets and traditions of Naples and it has since become a global culinary sensation.

The origins of pizza can be traced back to ancient times when the Greeks and Romans prepared flatbreads topped with various ingredients. However, it was in Naples that the modern pizza as we know it today truly took shape. In the 18th century, Naples was a bustling and densely populated city, and the working class needed a quick and affordable meal. This led to the creation of “pizza,” a simple and flavorful dish that quickly gained popularity among the locals.

The traditional Neapolitan pizza is characterized by a thin, soft, and chewy crust, topped with the freshest ingredients. The original Margherita pizza, named after Queen Margherita of Italy, was created in 1889 to honor her visit to Naples. The pizza was adorned with tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil, representing the colors of the Italian flag. To this day, the Margherita remains a classic and beloved choice for pizza lovers worldwide.

Naples has a rich tradition of pizza-making, and there are strict guidelines in place to preserve its authenticity. In 1984, the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (AVPN) was established to protect and promote the true Neapolitan pizza. The AVPN certifies pizzerias that adhere to the traditional techniques and ingredients, ensuring that visitors can experience an authentic taste of Naples.

To make an authentic Neapolitan pizza, the dough must be made from specific types of flour, water, salt, and yeast. It should be hand-kneaded and left to rise for a specific amount of time to develop its unique texture. The sauce is made with San Marzano tomatoes, which are grown in the volcanic soil near Mount Vesuvius, giving them a distinct flavor. Fresh mozzarella cheese and locally sourced toppings complete the masterpiece.

Today, Naples boasts countless pizzerias, ranging from traditional family-run establishments to modern eateries pushing the boundaries of pizza-making. Some of the most famous pizzerias in Naples include Da Michele and Sorbillo, which have been serving delicious pizzas for generations.

The popularity of Neapolitan pizza has transcended borders, and it can now be found in every corner of the world. However, there is something special about enjoying a slice of pizza in the city where it all began. The passionate dedication to preserving the authentic flavors and techniques ensures that Naples remains the ultimate destination for pizza enthusiasts.

In conclusion, the history of pizza in Naples is a tale of simplicity, ingenuity, and culinary excellence. The city’s humble creation has become an iconic symbol of Italian cuisine, and a trip to Naples would be incomplete without savoring an authentic Neapolitan pizza.