Discover Italy's Finest Sandwich in a Hidden Umbrian Gem
An unassuming takeaway in the picturesque Umbrian hill town of Città della Pieve is serving what one esteemed food critic has declared to be the best sandwiches in Italy. For British travellers, this culinary delight is now within easy reach, with budget flights from London to the region available for as little as £40 return.
A Rustic Kitchen with a Legendary Reputation
Il Pizzicagnolo di Bartoccioni, a compact sandwich outlet tucked discreetly behind a church, is the brainchild of proprietor Luca Bartoccioni. This modest establishment, which features a few outdoor tables, specialises in crafting sandwiches piled high with exceptional regional produce sourced directly from the surrounding Umbrian countryside.
In a review for the Sunday Telegraph, food expert Russell Higham effused, "A rustic kitchen with outside seating serves what are, I'm reasonably certain, the best sandwiches in Italy." This is no mass-produced high street operation; it is a bastion of artisanal quality and local tradition.
The Secret Ingredient: 'Truth'
Luca Bartoccioni reveals that beyond the premium ingredients, there is a profound philosophy that elevates his €9 (approximately £7.80) creations. "That's 'truth', and it's a word we use a lot in Città," he explains. "It means you have to give people what you promise. And when you do that, life becomes simple. It means you can believe what people say here."
This intangible ethos of authenticity and integrity permeates the entire town, fostering a community dedicated to calm, focus, and genuine craftsmanship. Luca's assistant, Andrea Ciculi, echoes this sentiment, noting the simple, beautiful quality of life in Città della Pieve.
Fresh, Local, and Made to Order
What sets Il Pizzicagnolo di Bartoccioni apart is its unwavering commitment to freshness and locality. "When you order, we bake the focaccia fresh for you right there and then," Luca states. The sausages and red onion are sourced from the immediate area, while the cheese hails from the nearby hilltop town of Todi.
Open daily from 10am to 2:30pm, this small takeaway with a lean team consistently earns rave reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor. Impressively, it manages to cater efficiently to large groups, with one customer noting seamless service for a party of ten, all served simultaneously by a single staff member handling orders, payment, and preparation.
A Town That Comes Alive
For most of the year, patrons can enjoy their sandwiches in peaceful reflection amidst the town's serene beauty. However, come August, Città della Pieve bursts into vibrant life during its annual Palio dei Terzieri festival. A highlight is the traditional archery contest between the town's historic districts, which unfolds right outside Luca's sandwich shop, adding a unique cultural spectacle to the dining experience.
How to Get There
For those inspired to make the pilgrimage, the journey is surprisingly affordable. Ryanair offers return flights from London Stansted to Perugia, the closest airport to Città della Pieve, for fares starting at just £40. British Airways also provides services from Heathrow to Perugia, with prices beginning around £90, rising to just over £110 during the peak festival period in August.
This discovery proves that a truly exceptional culinary experience need not be found in a bustling metropolis. Sometimes, the finest flavours are waiting in a quiet, little-known hill town, just a short and inexpensive flight away.
