I take frequent walks in Urbino. There is just so much to see. Each street leads me to a different piece of history or to a cultural point I’m eager to learn about. Over the weeks I’ve come to have a favorite street. With its beautiful marble sidewalk and arches over my head, I let the path lead me to one of the most breathtaking views in the city. The hills and valleys go on for miles, and at this viewpoint sits a one-of-a-kind cafe. I remember my first time there. I went after a full day of classes to unwind. I asked the waitress, “Hello, can I have a menu?” She responded in English, “I am the menu?” At that, we both let out a chuckle, and she began to recite some of the items they offer straight from memory. She mentioned something I had heard about often, but hadn’t yet tried, “a classic crescia”.
The actual name for this dish is Crescia Sfogliata Di Urbino. This, of course, is a mouth full for a beginner at Italian like me. The Crescia Sfogliata Di Urbino is a regional dish typical of the location of Urbino. It dates back to the Renaissance period and is made with lard, flour and eggs. When the waitress brought it out, with a coke as my side drink, I saw a flatbread similar in appearance to a tortilla, but also very different. Its flakiness and layers make it stand out in comparison.
