Grana Padano is the only possible alternative to Parmigiano Reggiano.


It is produced with the same passion and technique as Parmesan Cheese, but it does not come from the same area of origin.


The two cheeses are so similar, that Giacomo Casanova remarked in his memories that the name "Parmesan" was a misnomer in his time (mid-18th century) as the cheese was produced in the town of Lodi, not Parma (both towns are in Lombardy).


This comment originates probably from the fact that he was confusing Parmesan Cheese for Grana Padano and it goes to show how similar the two cheeses actually are.