Candied Chestnuts from Piedmont

One of the greatest delicacies of Italy are marroni canditi (candied chestnuts). Hard to find in the U.S., Zingerman's now imports them from the Bardini brothers in Cuneo, Piemonte. The process of making the chestnuts is intense-they are soaked in water for a week in underground caves, then in vanilla syrup, and then rolled in sugar. You won't recognize them as chestnuts, but you will definitely fall in love.

San Pellegrino World's 50 Best Restaurants

San Pellegrino World's 50 Best Restaurants have been chosen and six restaurants in Italy have made the list. The restaurants are innovative, experimental, and break the bonds of tradition all the while being the most chic in the city and country. The Italian restaurant ranked highest on the list is Osteria Francescana in Modena with the Michelin-starred Ristorante Cracco in Milan not far behind. The famous Gambero Rosso in Livorno has made the list again. Combal.Zero in the Museum of Contemporary Art in Piedmont presents dishes that will surprise you in every way. Dal Pescatore in Mantua has one of Italy's most celebrated women chefs. La Calandre in Rubino is traditional and hearty and has a pastry shop and food shop that you can order from on-line! These restaurants are worth leaving the beaten track for-and not easy to get into. Make sure you call ahead.