This is your guide to authentic eating in Italy.
Think of Italy and you can’t help but think of food.
Pizza, pasta, gelato, cappuccino…oh, the list could go on and on!
Italy tempts you with unique regional specialties, fresh seasonal dishes, savory antipasti, and mouthwatering desserts.
In fact, there are so many options that sometimes just making a choice can be overwhelming!
If you’re looking for some inside food intel for your next Italian trip, this post is for you.
It’s all about eating in Italy, courtesy of my many years of living in this amazing country, eating my way up and down the boot, of course!
Perhaps you are wondering why you would need to know how to eat in Italy? A country that is well-known for its fine cuisine.
Well…
Most of the food in Italy is good, sometimes it is sublime and occasionally it is mediocre or disappointing.
And it is one of those things can be quite easy to get wrong, especially when following the well-worn tourist paths.
Food is truly one of the best things about visiting Italy, so it is worthy of knowing a thing or two before you travel.
Eating Well In Italy
Everyone dreams of exploring Italy like a local and finding authentic Italian adventures.
You know, things like wandering prosecco vineyards, dining al-fresco in charming restaurants, or eating prosciutto right from the source in Friuli.
Really, who wouldn’t??
Italy has a rich and healthy food culture, that is truly second to none.
As an advocate for wellness travel, I think that Italy is one of the best countries to explore healthy eating. Mindfully enjoying nourishing food is a part of my daily self-care routine.
You don’t have to look much beyond the Meditteranean Diet to find foods that benefit your mind & body.
And the act of dining, well…it’s a social activity of leisure. How about that for supporting well-being!
A trip to Italy will inspire you to find pleasure in eating local, seasonal, and healthy foods. Food is authentic Italy, at it’s best!
People often ask me about eating in Italy, so I wanted to share some of what I have learned over my years of living here.
These tidbits are sure to help you dive deeper into your culinary adventures. So you can seek out more of the good food experiences, and hopefully, avoid the bad!
15 Secrets to Authentic Eating in Italy
Here are 15 inside things worth knowing for your Italian travels, to help you eat well..in every sense!
Location
Vere away from high volume tourist areas when choosing where to eat. Quick turn-over doesn’t make these very appealing places.
Menu
Avoid choosing places with photos, English, or multiple language menus as they tend to cater to tourists.
Opening Times
Find a restaurant that opens around 7 pm. Italians eat late & local places don’t cater to early diners.
Menu Fisso
Try a Menu Fisso (set menu) for lunch. It’s a set price working person’s lunch, not a tourist menu. It’s a good bet for the stomach and wallet!
Local Specialties
Food in Italy is highly influenced by regional identities. Research before you go & dive into foods right from their source. Think pizza in Naples or prosciutto in San Daniele.
Seasonal Dishes
Italians eat seasonally, so choose fresh dishes that highlight seasonal produce. Pumpkin gnocchi anyone?
Prima Colazione
Head to the local cafe to experience food culture 101 and take part in the typical Italian breakfast ritual of coffee & a pastry (brioche or cornetto).
Panini
Grab your lunch sandwich to go & find a place to sit and enjoy the local scene. It’s a great way to people watch!
Gelato
When choosing a place to get gelato, look for the words “produzione propria” or “artiginale”. Both mean that the gelato is made on-site, the old fashioned way.
Picnic
Buy some salami, cheese, & olives and dine alfresco. Then find a bench or a park to enjoy the outdoors. Oh, and don’t forget the wine!
Eat Outside
Join in! The Italians sure know how to make the most of the outdoor ambience & enjoy the fresh air, even in the smallest spaces.
Find A View
Eat or drink somewhere with a view. It’s guaranteed to provide memories that you won’t soon forget!
Be Adventurous
Try a few new dishes or even share a few with your friends. You’re in Italy after all, so sample as many different things as you can!
Be Present
Be fully present with your food experiences. Eat mindfully. Take in the aromas, look at the goodness in front of you, & savor every single glorious bite.
Take Your Time
Meals in Italy are a time to enjoy both the food & the company. So sit back, relax, & take advantage of the slower pace of life.
Now, check out Eating in Italy (Must Know Dining Tips), and then….
Go & book your next trip to Italy, your culinary escapades await!
until the next time…
…live well – travel well – be well
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