Ciao, amici!
Those who appreciate the rugged beauty and untamed spirit of Calabria’s landscapes will feel a similar connection to the dramatic scenery that unfolds in the region’s lesser-known corners. Just as the towering Sfalassà Viaduct in Calabria stands as a testament to the region’s engineering prowess, the Calabria Food Fest showcases the rich culinary heritage that makes this region a true gem. The second edition of the festival, taking place from June 16 to 23, 2026, promises to be an unforgettable celebration of Calabrian flavors and traditions. If you’re planning to attend, consider visiting the Sfalassà Viaduct, a monumental feat of engineering that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape - A Majestic Monument to Calabria’s Engineering Heritage
Passion here accepts no compromises.
Into the Heart of the “Deep South”#
When we talk about the “Deep South,” we mean the very tip of the Italian boot.
Here the flavors are intense, proud, and centuries of history are interwoven in every dish that arrives at the table with an overwhelming generosity. You haven’t truly lived until you’ve tasted the pure, unfiltered passion of Calabrian cuisine, an experience that stays etched in your soul. It is a journey into the heart of a land often overlooked, but capable of giving unparalleled gastronomic emotions.
Calabria gets under your skin.
If you want to understand the fiery spirit of this land before you arrive, read my colleague Luca’s guide on how to experience the ‘I Tri da Cruci’ festival in Tropea. It perfectly captures the pure passion of the local culture. This festival is not just a simple event, but a total immersion guided by those who live the land every day with hands covered in flour.
Forget the poor-quality tourist menus.
Your Calabrian Home: Montepaone and the Ionian Coast#
For this incredible week, your home will be the charming town of Montepaone.
Imagine waking up to the Ionian breeze and the promise of days kissed by the Mediterranean sun that warms the citrus groves. The Hotel Rada Siri, nestled on the coast, offers the perfect balance between modern comfort and authentic local charm, just steps from the turquoise water. It is the ideal refuge to rest after a day spent exploring the secrets of regional gastronomy.
The rhythm here is dictated by the sea.
Arriving in this paradise is simpler than you think thanks to the Lamezia Terme (SUF) airport. The organizers have provided private transfers that will take you directly into the heart of the festival without any logistical stress. All internal excursions are managed smoothly, allowing you to focus only on the aromas and breathtaking panoramas you will encounter along the way.
Freedom is the best side dish.
A Culinary Itinerary to Savor#
Squillace Castle: History and Taste#
The majestic Squillace Castle is one of the jewels of this edition.
This historic fortress, dominating the Ionian coast from above, becomes a unique stage for gala dinners served within millennial walls. We will listen to the stories of the producers while the air fills with the scent of typical dishes prepared according to recipes passed down for generations. The view of the sun dipping into the sea from these heights is a memory you will carry with you forever.
Soverato: The Pearl of the Ionian#
Then we will head to Soverato, the most vibrant town on the coast, for an apericena at Brezza Fish & Chill.
This seaside spot is led by Michelin-starred chef Luca Abbruzzino, a true master in treating Calabrian fish with respect and innovation. My Nonna always said: “The secret is in the ingredients,” and here you can taste the freshness of the Ionian in every single bite. Here you learn to distinguish real fish from the mediocre stuff of the tourist traps I detest so much.
Quality needs no tricks.
Agriturismo Fassi: The Art of Pasta with Nonna#
For me, this is the most exciting moment of the entire trip.
We will go to Agriturismo Fassi for a cooking lesson with the “Official Nonna of the Calabria Food Fest 2026.” With hands covered in flour, you will learn the ancient art of making fresh pasta just as generations of Calabrian women have done. My Nonna always said that pasta must be made with love and strong hands, and you will feel that love in every dough you shape under the watchful eye of the master.
Tradition is touched by hand.
If you appreciate these manual and slow traditions, you will find a similar soul in my guide on handmade corzetti from Liguria. It’s the same spirit of respect for the raw material that unites our entire peninsula.
Practical Insider Advice#
Embrace the rhythm of the land.
Calabria operates with its own beautiful cadence that does not allow for haste or urban performance anxiety. Give yourself the luxury of slowing down, of chatting with producers, and of enjoying every meal as if it were a sacred ritual. And please, no cappuccino after 11:00 AM: it is a golden rule that I will defend as long as I have breath in my body!
The coffee here is a serious espresso.
- When to go: The festival takes place from June 16 to 23, 2026, the perfect time to enjoy the warm sea and the sun before the August heat.
- Book in advance: This is an exclusive trip and spots disappear quickly among true gastronomy enthusiasts.
- Explore Squillace: If you have time, visit the village for its ceramics, a craft that runs parallel to the food culture.
Calabria is proud and full of flavors you will never forget. I can’t wait to share the table with you and let you discover how spicy and generous this land can be!
Enjoy your trip and seek the spice!
For those who appreciate the rich flavors and aromas of Italy’s culinary heritage, a trip to Tuscany is a must. The region’s picturesque landscapes, charming hilltop towns, and world-class wines make it an ideal destination for foodies and wine enthusiasts. To experience the essence of Tuscany, consider embarking on a road trip, as outlined in Tuscany Road Trip: 7-Day Autumn Adventure, where you can explore the region’s hidden gems and local traditions.