When most people think of iconic Tennessean food what comes to mind is likely images of Memphis-style barbecue or Nashville hot chicken. While these are both excellent examples of The Volunteer State’s culinary offerings, Tennessee has much more to offer than barbecued and fried meat. Hidden within the state’s major cities you’ll find several establishments serving food so authentically Italian you’ll swear you were in Rome.

1. Porta Via Ristornate e Bar

From its Florentine plaster walls to its tiled fountain and cherry-wood pergola, Porta Via Ristorante e Bar makes you feel like you’re in the Old World from the moment you step through the doorway. This West Nashville establishment, which opened its doors in 1989, offers 56 menu items, 12 rotating gelato flavors, and several Italian coffee drinks such as lattes and Americanos. Every menu item is made using recipes that have been handed down from generation to generation.