Venice and its surroundings are a feast for the senses.

The ancient splendors of the mythical Serene City, the

stunning vistas of the Dolomite mountains, the romance of

Verona - discover their magic in this unique guide to the

culture and cuisine of one of Italy's most beautiful regions.

The city of Venice, shrouded in mist as it rises

above the lagoon, is home to centuries of history

and legend. The beauty of Saint Mark's Square

and the secret, winding canals have inspired generations

of artists and writers to capture the soul of

this sometimes melancholy, yet always lovely city.

The surrounding region of Venetia is no less

rich in cultural and natural treasures : from Juliet's

balcony in Verona to the architectural masterpieces

of Palladio ; from the ancient university of Padua -

among its students Galileo, Dante and Petrarch -

to the wild grandeur of the Dolomites.

The Traveling Gourmet offers the perfect introduction

to one of the world's most celebrated cities

and its regions, with plenty to delight both the

inquisitive tourist and the dedicated food-lover. In

addition to the author's lively account of points of

local interest, for each town or region visited.

Italian chef Toni Vianello presents a selection of

mouthwatering recipes. Specialties include dishes

such as zuppa digo (a soup made with tiny fish from

Venice's lagoon), and radiechio alla griglia (a salad

from Treviso where the lettuce owes its quality to

the purity of the town's water).

Specially commissioned photographs capture

both the beauty of the sights and the appetizing

colors of local products, inviting readers to bring

the flavor of Venice into their own home.