Considering that Emilia-Romagna is the birthplace, and current production home, of signature Italian delicacies including Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, Prosciutto di Parma, and Modena balsamic vinegar, it was surprising to learn at a recent tourism event in NYC that this compact, centrally-located region is less visited than other Italian regions.

Rooted in ancient tradition, the food here conveys a taste of place like few others. Emilia-Romagna boasts Europe’s highest number of D.O.P. (Denominazione di Origine Protetta, or Protected Designation of Origin) products, the European Union’s certification of products that are produced in and owe their characteristics and reputation to a specific region.