Community Water and Cheese Dairies

Acqua Chiara Natural Water Dispensers

Instead of purchasing cases of water weekly and transporting them back home and disposing of the plastic bottles, many Italians conveniently go to a community water dispenser with their glass or plastic water bottles and fill them with water.  

In many towns you can find community houses operated and maintained by Acqua Chiara Natural. They are small structures located in strategic points of the town or city, which supply drinking water of the highest quality, clean, microfiltered, sterilized, refrigerated with a choice between still and  sparkling.

The water, which comes from the local water system and costs currently about 10 Euro cents per liter depending on which you select, still or sparkling. Weekly the technicians clean and maintain the systems for water quality and safety. 

There are two ways to purchase, with Euro coins or with a card that you can load money which is purchased at a local cartoleria (stationary store). To discover more, see the link below. 

Local Dairies

The province of Pordenone, nestled in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region of northern Italy, is home to a rich tradition of artisan cheeses, or formaggi. Many of these cheeses are produced in small latterie (dairies) scattered across local towns. 

For Americans unfamiliar with these regional specialties, it's worth noting that these cheeses are not industrial and are distinct, fresh, and different from dairy to dairy. Additionally, these dairies also offer yogurts, fresh eggs and local specialities. See the link for the Aviano Dairy as an example. Some popular local varieties of cheese are below and are worth trying. 

• Montasio: A semi-hard cheese with a firm texture and a slightly nutty flavor, perfect for grating or slicing. It has a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status, ensuring its authenticity.

• Fior di Panna: A creamy, soft cheese often enjoyed fresh, with a delicate flavor.

• Ricotta di Pecora: A sheep's milk ricotta that is softer and creamier, often used in local dishes or eaten on its own.