The Best Street Food in Parma, Italy
Where to Eat Like a Local
Parma is a city that knows how to eat, and we’ve already answered the question – why visit Parma—but now it’s time to talk about the food you can eat on the go. While you may not see locals walking down Parma’s historic streets munching on prosciutto-stuffed sandwiches, you will find small, no-fuss spots where the city’s best flavors are served fresh and fast.
These aren’t your typical street carts, but casual, stand-up eats that fit seamlessly into a day of exploring. Whether you’re in the mood for a legendary panino, crispy focaccia, or the best gelato in town, this list has the essentials—including picks from Chef Ilaria Bertinelli.
If you are planning your visit, check out Parma’s official tourism guide for more must-see spots and local food markets. And for a sit-down experience, don’t miss our guide on where to eat in Parma.
Da Pepèn – Home of Parma’s Most Famous Panino
📍 Borgo S. Ambrogio, 2, 43121 Parma PR, Italy
This Parma institution has been serving some of the best panini in Italy since 1953. If you only order one thing, make it the Carciofa—a sandwich packed with artichokes, cheese, and eggs, all crisped up on a grill. The horse tartare sandwich (yes, horse meat!) is another classic for the more adventurous eater.
Mama Mia Bottega & Piaceri – A Foodie’s Dream Deli
📍 Str. Nino Bixio, 31/A, 43125 Parma PR, Italy
Part deli, part casual eatery, Mama Mia celebrates local ingredients. Expect fresh pasta, charcuterie, and aged Parmigiano Reggiano, perfect for grabbing a quick bite or putting together a gourmet picnic. If you’re into serious snacking, this is a must-visit.
Ciacco Gelateria – Where Gelato Becomes an Art Form
📍 Via Giuseppe Mazzini, 39, 43121 Parma PR, Italy
Ciacco takes artisanal gelato to another level. Their flavors are made with zero artificial ingredients, just pure, seasonal goodness. The pistachio and dark chocolate are crowd favorites, but their rotating seasonal flavors keep locals coming back.
Frank Focaccia – The Fluffiest, Most Flavorful Focaccia in Town
📍 Borgo San Lorenzo 19, 43121, Parma PR, Italy
Focaccia might not be the first thing that comes to mind in prosciutto country, but Frank Focaccia makes a strong case. Whether you opt for classic tomato and mozzarella or a richer combo like mortadella and ricotta, this is a perfect handheld option while exploring the city.
Enoteca Fontana – Where Wine and Snacks Meet
📍 Str. Farini, 24, 43121 Parma PR, Italy
Technically a wine bar, but it earns a spot on this list for its perfect small bites—think charcuterie, cheese, and house-made pasta. It’s a stand-up, snack-and-sip kind of place, which makes it a great stop if you want a quick taste of the best Parma has to offer.
Torta Fritta at Ai Due Platani – Worth Sitting Down For
📍 Strada Budellungo, 104a, 43123 Parma PR, Italy
You haven’t really been to Parma until you’ve had Torta Fritta. These golden, airy pillows of fried dough are the perfect excuse to indulge in slices of Prosciutto di Parma and Parmigiano Reggiano. While not exactly street food, it’s so good that it deserves a mention. Ai Due Platani is one of the best places to try it—but be warned, this place is packed with locals, so book ahead.
Where to Next?
Parma’s food scene is one to savor, and if you want to do more than just eat, join Let’s Eat Parma. This culinary holiday, led by Chef Ilaria Bertinelli, offers hands-on cooking classes, market visits, and a deep dive into the flavors of Emilia-Romagna.
Hungry for more? Check out our recipe page for classic Italian dishes, and sign up for our newsletter to get monthly recipes, foodie tips, and updates on our next culinary holiday.
