As I begin my journey through the Marche region, my first stop is in Urbino, a small hill town that flourished during the Renaissance. One of its most cherished street foods, the crescia di Urbino, has roots that trace back to the 15th century. It’s not just a popular dish—it’s a taste of history.
The Secrets of Crescia
At the Ragno D’Oro restaurant, Valerio reveals the culinary secrets behind the crescia. “It may look like a piadina,” he says, “but the ingredients and preparation are quite different.” This crescia, made from puff pastry, was a favorite of the dukes of Urbino during grand feasts, earning its place as a true Renaissance dish.
Valerio explains that the crescia di Urbino is actually the ancestor of the millefeuille. In its time, puff pastry was considered a delicacy reserved for the nobility, adding an extra layer of richness to this already indulgent treat.
A Hearty Dish with Local Flavors
At Fagiolo Pizza, Pietro shares more about the crescia’s powerful flavor. “The perfect filling is with prosciutto crudo and casciotta cheese di Urbino,” he says. Indeed, every café, restaurant, and trattoria in Urbino seems to offer their own variation of crescia, making it an essential part of the local food culture.
I try the crescia sfogliata di Urbino filled with screscenza cheese and rucola. The dough, enriched with lard, gives it a deliciously heavy and indulgent texture. Combined with the creamy cheese and peppery arugula, it’s a rich, savory bite that takes me right back to the heart of the Renaissance.
Practical Tips
Explore Local Cafés: While Urbino’s restaurants serve crescia, don’t overlook the small bars and cafés—they often offer fresher, more affordable versions of this street food.
Choose the Right Filling: For a truly authentic experience, try your crescia with prosciutto crudo and casciotta di Urbino. It’s a classic combination that balances the richness of the dough with salty and creamy flavors.
Pace Yourself: The crescia is a heavy dish due to the lard in the dough. If you’re planning to explore more of Urbino’s food scene, consider sharing a crescia to leave room for other local delights.
Try a Sweet Version: Though crescia is typically savory, some places in Urbino may offer sweet variations. Pair it with local honey or jam for a unique twist on this traditional dish.
Address: Fagiolo Pizza, Via Vittorio Veneto, 19, Urbino
Address: Ragno D’Oro, Via Don Minzoni, Urbino
