Black background with the word 'Bennuvento!' written diagonally in white cursive text.
A plate of assorted appetizers with a canal and boats in Venice in the background.

*True* Local Tips

Believe it or not…

This site actually started as a scrappy Google Doc that I shared with friends and family — a running list of my favorite places in Italy after years of living full-time and (now) part-time in Venice. Eventually, I realized: why keep all the good stuff buried in an email chain? So now it's here, open to anyone who finds it useful. Whether you're planning a trip, daydreaming from your desk, or just wondering where to find a decent snack — welcome!

An American living in Italy smiling at the camera, standing near ancient stone ruins in Verona, with a cityscape and river in the background.

About me

I’m Sarah — an educational consultant by trade and a seasonal Venetian thanks to work, marriage, and a long-standing weakness for aperitivo hour. Since 2016, I’ve bounced between New Orleans and Italy, collecting espresso habits, Carnival pastries, and an unreasonable number of opinions on where to stay, eat, and wander.

This site is a collection of my go-to places: the off-the-radar gems, the delicious detours, and the everyday rituals that make Italy feel like home. I have no “influencer” angle or agenda (I like my day job!) — just offering honest recs from someone who’s lived abroad and figured out where to find the good stuff.

My story is nothing groundbreaking, but if you're curious...

〰️

My story is nothing groundbreaking, but if you're curious... 〰️

Now, for the real reason you’re here.

A young girl with blonde hair in a braid, wearing a pink dress, standing behind a railing that overlooks a coastal scene with cliffs, water, and buildings in Polignano a Mare.
A traditional round dining table set neatly for four guests near a large window with open wooden shutters. The window is framed by heavy, dark curtains and shows green trees outside, set in the Italian countryside.

Ready to Explore My Recs?

Assorted seafood and vegetable salad on a decorative plate -- example of Venetian cuisine.