Is Parmesan cheese the same as Romano?

Answer 1

Parmesan is and is not the same as Parmigiano.

Parmesan cheese is a term commonly applied for commercial purposes outside of Italy to Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, one of Italy's finest.

Parmigiano Reggiano is a DOP product which means it is protected by European Law and only the cheese made from the zone of Parma and nearby can be classed as the real thing.

Parmesan cheese is, therefore, a cheap imitation.

Answer 2

Parmesan is smoother and Romano has a sharper taste. Pecorino Romano and Parmigiano-Reggiano are made from different ingredients, use different methods of processing, are aged for different lengths of time and, most importantly, are only produced in different specific regions in Italy.

Answer 3

Parmesan reggiano - actually called "parmigiano reggiano" - is the real kind that is imported from Italy, and Parmesan is the American variations of parmigiano reggiano, and is often more dry than than the imported stuff. It's also a lot cheaper than the imported kind