Cucina Romana Festival - Carbonara vs Cacio e Pepe

A slice of Rome in the province of Novara

For an entire weekend, the municipality of Bellinzago Novarese, in the province of Novara (Piedmont), becomes the Piedmontese capital of Roman cuisine. The Cucina Romana Festival, known to all as the Carbonara vs Cacio e Pepe challenge, is a travelling street food event curated by Italia On The Road - Cibo Da Strada in collaboration with the local council. For several seasons, it has enlivened the Area Scuole on Via Vescovo Bovio and inaugurated the town's outdoor event calendar.

The duel between two great classics

The heart of the festival is the most hotly contested gastronomic duel in Roman tradition: on one side, carbonara, with its crispy guanciale and creamy egg sauce; on the other, cacio e pepe, essential and perfect. The choice is yours, or try both and vote for your favorite. Alongside the two queens of fresh pasta, you will find a menu that is a complete journey through Roman dining.

What to eat

• Carbonara and Cacio e Pepe, the absolute stars
• Carciofi alla giudia, fried according to the traditional Roman ghetto recipe
• Porchetta and sausage sandwiches
• Mixed fried foods and Roman street food specialties
• Selected beers and a well-stocked refreshment area

The format is classic street food: you can sit at the outdoor tables set up in the area or choose takeaway to enjoy your favorite Roman dish at home.

Live music and atmosphere

The festival is not just about gastronomy: every evening is accompanied by live concerts and shows, turning the Area Scuole into a meeting point for families, groups of friends, and curious foodies. Past editions have featured tribute bands dedicated to the great names of Italian and international music, confirming the popular and convivial nature of the event.

An event for the whole family

With free admission and no need for reservations, the Cucina Romana Festival in Bellinzago Novarese is designed to be accessible to everyone. It is the ideal occasion for an evening out or a Sunday lunch outdoors, in an informal and festive atmosphere that perfectly represents the spirit of the Novara region and Piedmont when it comes to good food and conviviality.