Parma, a city celebrated for its art and culinary heritage, offers more than just Parmigiano Reggiano, Prosciutto di Parma, and fresh pasta. It boasts a vibrant sandwich culture, where the simple "panino" is elevated into an art form. Let's embark on a gastronomic journey to discover the best "artist sandwiches" Parma has to offer, exploring historical establishments and new trends, quality ingredients, and creative combinations.
The Art of the Panino in Parma: A Culinary Institution
In Parma, a sandwich is not merely a quick snack but a complete culinary experience. Local sandwich shops distinguish themselves through careful ingredient selection, creative pairings, and attention to presentation. Many Parma sandwich makers consider themselves true artists, capable of transforming a simple sandwich into a gastronomical work of art.
Pepen: An Icon of Parma's Sandwich Scene
No discussion about Parma's best sandwiches is complete without mentioning Pepen. Established in 1936, this historic sandwich shop is an institution for Parma locals and a must-visit for tourists. Its success lies in the quality of its ingredients, the simplicity of its recipes, and its authentic and convivial atmosphere.
Pepen's menu offers a wide selection of sandwiches, from classics with prosciutto and cheese to more original creations. Among the most popular are the "Cavallo Pesto," made with horse pesto, and the "Wallis," a warm sandwich with cooked ham, fontina cheese, and tartar sauce. The long line outside the shop is testament to its enduring popularity.
Pepen evokes memories and traditions, a landmark for generations of Parma residents. Its timeless atmosphere, combined with the quality of its sandwiches, makes it an unmissable experience for anyone wanting to discover the authentic taste of Parma. Andrea Vignali notes that Pepèn, the iconic Parma sandwich shop that invented the express sandwich over 70 years ago, has expanded to Milan, bringing its traditional sandwiches to a wider audience.
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Panino d'Artista: An Explosion of Creativity in the Heart of Parma
Located in the heart of Parma's historic center, in Via Farini, Panino d'Artista combines the tradition of Parma's sandwich shops with a touch of creativity and innovation. Dedicated to Giuseppe Verdi, the establishment offers an artistic and welcoming atmosphere, ideal for a lunch break or a tasty snack.
Panino d'Artista stands out for its quality ingredients, sourced from selected local producers, and for the variety of its menu, ranging from classic sandwiches to platters of typical cured meats and cheeses. Among the house specialties are sandwiches with Prosciutto di Parma, Culatello di Zibello, and other PDO cured meats, accompanied by artisanal cheeses and homemade sauces.
The establishment also offers gluten-free options for those with celiac disease, demonstrating attention to the diverse needs of its customers. Its central location, pleasant atmosphere, and quality products make it an ideal choice for a quick lunch or a tasty break while visiting the city.
Walter: The King of the Wallisburger
Another historical name in Parma's sandwich scene is Walter, famous for his "Wallisburger." This sandwich, invented by Walter himself over forty years ago, has become an institution in Parma. It is a warm sandwich with cooked ham, fontina cheese, and a secret sauce, the recipe of which is jealously guarded.
Walter is an iconic figure in the city, known for his friendliness and his passion for his work. His sandwich shop is a landmark for Parma residents of all ages, who gather here to enjoy his unique Wallisburger and chat with the "king of the sandwich."
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The simplicity of the ingredients, the care in preparation, and the familiar atmosphere make the Walter experience unique and unforgettable.
Beyond the Classics: New Trends and Unexpected Combinations
In addition to the historical sandwich shops, Parma also offers a series of more recent establishments that offer artist sandwiches with innovative combinations and refined ingredients. These establishments cater to a younger audience attentive to current gastronomic trends, offering an original and stimulating culinary experience.
Many Parma sandwich makers are inspired by local cuisine, using typical ingredients such as Parmigiano Reggiano, Prosciutto di Parma, and balsamic vinegar to create unique and tasty sandwiches. Others experiment with ingredients from other regions of Italy or from around the world, creating unexpected and surprising combinations.
The increasing attention to the quality of ingredients and sustainability has led to the emergence of sandwich shops that use only organic and locally sourced products, promoting healthy and conscious eating.
The Tradition of "Cavallo Pesto"
A unique Parma tradition is the "cavallo pesto" sandwich. This involves raw minced horse meat seasoned with salt, pepper, and lemon. It's a local favorite, especially on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Two types are available: "di prima," leaner and bright red, ideal for raw consumption, and "di seconda," with a higher fat content, used in the "vécia col pist" dish.
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The tradition dates back to the 19th century when Maria Luigia, Napoleon's wife, ruled the territory. Faced with a famine, she ordered the consumption of horses. The first equine butcher shop opened in Turin in 1865, and Parma regulated its consumption in 1873. Franco Orlandelli opened the first shop in Parma in 1881.
The Associazione per la Tutela del Cavallo Pesto di Parma ensures quality, requiring that the meat be butchered and deboned in Italy, using horses from Eastern Europe (particularly Hungary) that are over four years old. The seasoning includes iodized sea salt and spices like black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
Several establishments offer the cavallo pesto in various forms. At Alla Clinica del Panino da Walter, you can find creative combinations with raw or cooked cavallo pesto. Pepèn is renowned for its cavallo pesto sandwich, described as the "best sandwich" by Tom Rachman. 1881 Macelleria Equina - Panini & Pokè offers gourmet versions like the Panino Etna with pistachio cream and pecorino cheese. Macelleria Equina Olga serves a traditional cavallo pesto sandwich in a thin ciabatta. Frank Focaccia offers cavallo pesto in a round focaccia with various toppings. Panino d’Artista provides a gourmet take on the tradition with the Rosetta di Parma, featuring horse tartare and lettuce.
Sandwich Shops Offering Traditional Flavors
Parma offers several places where you can find traditional products framed in a fragrant sandwich for less than 10 €.
- Pepèn: An institution known for its atmosphere and iconic sandwiches like the Spaccaballe and Carciofa.
- Da Walter - La clinica del panino: A rustic establishment offering a variety of sandwiches, including the Pesto primavera and the Crociato.
- Frank Focaccia: Known for its small, crispy focaccias filled with classic local cured meats.
- Panino d’artista: A paninoteca in a historic house, offering traditional Parma flavors reinterpreted in a contemporary way.
- Tra l’uss e l’asa: A modern option for "hot sandwiches" with cooked fillings, offering an explosion of flavors.