Itinerary among the cities of Blue Fish in Calabria

When you think of Tropea, two things come to mind: the turquoise of its sea and the braids of the most iconic onion in Italian cuisine. But the scent of the PGI Red Onion goes well with typical dishes based on the freshest blue fish, from fileja with swordfish to fried surici.

To celebrate this delicious gastronomic combination, there is also the traditional Festival of Blue Fish and the Tropea Red Onion, which takes place in July.

What will certainly lead you to Pizzo is its crystal-clear sea, the Murat Castle and, of course, the legendary tartufo ice-cream. But perhaps you don't know that Pizzo is also famous for its gastronomy based on blue fish, which you can enjoy in various typical recipes, but particularly fried, strictly to be eaten hot, just out of the frying pan, “friji e m'bucca” as they say in these parts. As is the case, for example, at the Festival of Blue Fish, which usually takes place at the end of July in the old town centre.

There is a small town on the Tyrrhenian coast that has made blue fish its pride and joy. You will find it on the murals that recall the hard work of the fishermen, in the many restaurants where you can taste delicious dishes prepared according to ancient recipes, and also in the art installations that take up, stylised, the shapes of the fish most common along this stretch of coastline.

In Fuscaldo, but also in the neighbouring villages, do not miss the opportunity to taste anchovies rimbottite, a unique speciality prepared with variations according to local tradition. At the end of July, the traditional Festival of the Anchovies takes place, where you can taste the different anchovy specialities.

A tour among the cities of blue fish in Calabria cannot fail to pass by the Costa degli Achei. Here, in the heart of the Sibaritide, you must come and taste a speciality of the most ancient seafood tradition: alici arriganate, prepared according to jealously guarded recipes. All you have to do is stop at one of the many restaurants offering fish-based menus to discover how good they are.

It is certainly one of the most popular summer resorts. A stone's throw from Soverato, but also from renowned beaches such as Caminia, Pietragrande, Copanello.

In Montepaone, a spectacular sea, evenings of music and entertainment and, of course, blue fish prepared in many varieties, all very tasty, await you in one of the many lidos with tables by the sea. In summer, festivals and fairs offer gastronomic stands where fried blue fish is always on offer.

If Bagnara Calabra has been dubbed the “Calabrian swordfish capital”, there must be a reason. You will soon discover it, visiting this delightful village nestled along the Costa Viola, bathed by the waters of the Strait of Messina, rich in history and traditions. Gastronomic too, since it is famous for its fish recipes. Swordfish alla bagnarota is a speciality you can only taste here. Where? You will be spoilt for choice.

No one returns from Scilla without being deeply enchanted by this place where time seems to stand still, with the fishermen's houses of the ancient Chianalea quarter lapped by the sea. What also remains impressed, however, are the aromas and flavours of the typical dishes. You can taste the famous swordfish sandwich, a speciality that will remain in your heart, along with the picturesque views of the village.