Get ready to savor eating in Italy with this food lover’s guide!

When you 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!

That said, perhaps you are wondering why you would need to know more about eating 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.

The truth is, I love eating in Italy, it’s one of the joys of living here.

My love of Italian food has no boundaries and many of my cherished memories revolve around the food culture.

Glorious long holiday dinners with my family, hearty mid-hike lunches in The Dolomites, exploring Puglia with a wine expert, and more wine tastings than I can count. My experiences have covered a lot of territory over the years.

It’s been a delicious ride.

Since people are always asking me about eating in Italy, I decided to put some of my best ideas in one place. This guide contains valuable inside insights from 20+ years of living here and eating my way up and down the boot!

Ready? Let’s dive into eating in Italy…

Nourishing Yourself in Italy

A trip to Italy will inspire you to find pleasure in eating local, seasonal, and healthy foods. That’s because 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. After all, you don’t have to look much beyond the Mediterranean Diet to find foods that benefit your mind & body.

Mindfully enjoying nourishing food is also a big part of Italian life. And the act of dining, well…it’s a social activity of leisure.

So, think of dining in Italy, not just as eating, but as nourishing your well-being.

The way it should be!

Finding The Best Places to Eat in Italy

When it comes to finding the best places to eat in Italy, there are a few simple tips and tricks that can help you uncover hidden gems and avoid tourist traps.

• First, venture away from the main tourist areas to explore the smaller neighborhoods. Here you’ll find locals enjoying authentic and delicious food.
  
• Second, don’t be afraid to ask the locals for recommendations. Italians are proud of their culinary traditions and are usually more than happy to share their favorite spots.
  
• Finally, be adventurous and try new things. Italy is known for its diverse cuisine, so don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try something you’ve never had before. After all, how will you ever know how good it is, if you don’t give it a try?

Embrace Mealtime as Sacred

In Italy, mealtimes are about enjoyment and spending time with family and friends. It revolves around being present and is a time of pleasure and connection.

As well as, a relaxed mealtime is nourishing for both the mind & body. These are pauses engrained into every day are opportunities to stop and connect, both with yourself & others.

So, don’t be in a rush, slow down and take your time.

Know this, even though the dishes may vary greatly, the customs around dining in Italy are constant no matter which region you visit.

Meals are prepared simple and fresh. There is no rush. You sit down and enjoy the experience.

That’s the Italian tradition.

Expect Slow & Relaxed Service

Typically things move at a more leisurely pace in Italy.

Of course, this also holds true for dining experiences. It’s one of the reasons why eating in Italy is a nourishing experience for your well-being.

You won’t feel rushed in & out the door because there is another reservation behind you. The wait staff won’t fuss or continually stop by and ask how things are going. In fact, you usually have to ask for the check (il conto) when you are ready to leave.

But, you will have the opportunity to savor your food and truly enjoy the time with loved ones.

This holds true whether you’re in a relaxed Dolomite resort town like Cortina, or the hustle and bustle of Venice or Rome. That’s becuase eating in Italy always moves at a slower pace.

Indulge in Local & Regional Specialties

Italy is a country of diverse culinary traditions, with each region having its own specialties and flavors. There is something for everyone’s tastes when it comes to eating in Italy.

In the north, regions such as Lombardy and Emilia-Romagna are known for their creamy pastas & risottos, hearty stews, and cured meats.

The Dolomites in particular have their own food culture, with high altitude dining at rifugi, loads of locally sourced goods, and cheese that makes your mouth sing.

Tip: If you want to visit cities with well-established food cultures, try Parma, Modena, or Bologna.

In central Italy, Tuscany offers a variety of dishes such as the famous Florentine steak, ribollita (a hearty vegetable soup), and pici pasta. In Umbria, it’s the porchetta and lentil soup that will make you lick your chops.

Down south, the coastal region of Campania is famous for its pizza and seafood, while Sicily is known for its unique blend of Mediterranean and Arabic flavors. And we can’t leave out Puglia, it’s a plant based food lover’s paradise.

But, no matter where you go, here’s the most important thing:

Embrace the concept of “eating local” and savor the unique dishes that each area has to offer. By doing so, you’ll not only support local farmers and producers but also experience the true essence of Italian gastronomy.

Which is a win-win for the well-being for people, places, & the planet!

Dine with a View in The Dolomites

If you’ve been here before, you’ll know that I love The Dolomites and spend lots of time there.

One of the things I love best, is the culinary scene. With ample farm to table options and mountain huts (known as Rifugi in Italian or Hutte in German), you get to enjoy an authentic cultural food experience, often times with an incredible backdrop.

It’s food as it’s meant to be, local, seasonal and with a view. Which makes pausing to take in the scenery truly a joy!

The Dolomites are big and there are oh so many places, but here are a few of my favorites for eating mountain style:

• Gostner Schwaige: This farm on Alpe di Siusi is has been in the same family for hundreds of years. With an emphasis on farm to fork, many of their dishes come from their farm. I’ve eaten herre many times, and the ricotta strudel is a not to be missed specialitiy.
  
• Rauchhuttee: This was one of the most memorable dinners I’ve had in the Dolomites. With a twist on many classic dishes, their cheese tray bis divine and the wine list is extensive.
  
• Sofie Hutte: Located on The Seceda Range (one of my favorite hikes), their wine list with over 300 bottles will tempt you to stop and have an aperitivo. With their South Tyrolean specialities, you can dine the afternoon away in style.

Eating in Rome, Florence, & Venice

Affectionately known as The Big 3, these iconic cities are wonderful places to dine, with endless options. Here are a few of my well-loved delights:

Rome

• Felice a Testaccio: Located in The Testaccio neighborhood, this is something special as the cacio e pepe is prepared at the table… a not to be forgotten experience.
• Casa Bleve: How about an dinner in a 16th century vaulted ceiling Baroque palazzo with a second to none wine list? I highly recommend the braised beef cheek, washed down with a vintage wine. We had new year’s eve dinner here and it o stands out as one my favorite family memories.
• Antico Forno Roscioli: This is where you’ll find the best take away pizza by the slice. Along with fresh bread and loads of sweet treats. A family run institution, they also have a restaurant and cafe right around the corner. Oh, and a food tour!

Florence

• Trattoria Mario: Go here for one reason only, Florentine Steak. A no reservations, cash only place where you’ll feast next to with Italians. Get there early, you won’t regeet it!
• Osteria Santo Spirito: Gnocchi with cheese and truffles, you bet!
• Osteria del Cianghiale Bianco: I first wandered in restaurant this histoic tower turned here 25 years ago, before I even moved here. It is always good Tuscan food and service. Located close to The Ponte Vecchio, they are open every day, and take reservations. Which you might need!

Venice

• Osteria La Zucca: We’ve been eating here for years and it never disappoints! The menu changes daily and is driven by local produce. The pumpkin flan is legendary and not to be missed. It is a small locale, so reservations are a good idea.
• Al Covo: Tis is another family run restaurant that features local produce and seafood. Think fine dining with an authentic family atmosphere. The tasting menu is a good choice here, as is the chocolate cake with pistachios!
• All’Arco: This is the quintessential Venetian wine bar, a place you go for good drinks and cicchetti (Venetian style finger foods). With only a few tables outside, this is where you get the real experience of standing and chatting, with your wine in hand. It’s fun and located near The Rialto Bridge, making it an easy stop.
  
  

Shop At Local Food Markets

One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the vibrant food culture of Italy is by visiting the local food markets. You’ll find these treasure troves of the food scene, in small villages and big cities alike.

These bustling markets are a feast for the senses, with colorful displays of fresh produce, aromatic cooked food, and mouthwatering delights.

Local food markets are a truly wonderful way to experience the local side of life in Italy as you stock up on some goodies.

In addition, by shopping at the food markets you support local and artisan producers, which is a win for everyone!

Dig into Cooking Classes & Food Tours

Italy offers a wide range of culinary experiences that allow you to learn from both chefs and locals, while immersing yourself in the art of Italian cooking.

Meaning, that those who want to take your love for Italian cuisine to the next level, participating in cooking classes and food tours should be on your bucket list.

Whether you choose to learn how to make fresh pasta, discover the secrets of pizza making, or do something like a Balsalmic Vinegar tour, these kinds of culinary experiences will expand your knowledge of Italian cuisine, while at the same time providing you with unique memories.

That way you can bring a piece of the dolce vita home with you and extend that well-being right on into your daily life!

Sometimes people ask me about specific food tours. And while they are not usually on my agenda, I did have a gastronomic delight in Rome several years ago, with the Twilight Testaccio Food Tour.

Celebrate at Italy’s Food Festivals

Italy is a country that loves to celebrate its food culture, and one of the best ways to do this is by attend one of the many food festivals, or two, or even three!

Beyond the tasty treats, these festivals (known as sagre) also afford a glimpse into the traditions and customs that surround Italian food. It is the perfect way to explore like a local.

To me, these are the hidden gems of the food scene in Italy!

Over the years, I’ve been to so many food festivals, like: pumpkin, prosciutto, chestnut, mushroom, asparagus & more. Honestly, there are so many local food festivals and so little time.

Often called “una sagra”, mark your calendar to attend at least one food festival during your visit to Italy, it’s an experience that you don’t want to miss!

Savor Pizza, The Italian Way

Of course you’re going to eat pizza when you come to Italy! Here are a few things to keep in mind:

If you’re headed to Naples, you must try the original margherita. This classic pizza is melt in your mouth fresh with a slightly thicker and chewier crust than other areas in Italy.

You will also find other specialties around the boot like speck in The Dolomites and pumpkin pizza in the fall!

Just know that Italians eat pizza with a knife and fork. So, unless you’re enjoying a slice to-go, be prepared to sit and fully appreciate the experience.

And, did you know that Italians traditionally drink beer with pizza?

But hey, you only live once, so drink whatever floats your boat!

Eat Pasta as a First Course

Here’s the thing about pasta in Italy, there are more types and shapes of pasta in Italy than there are flavors of gelato. Yep, seriously. And they are more than just creative shapes.

Pasta is made to go with the sauce and is typically a first course in Italy or “primo”. Often I will get pasta, skip the second course and order a salad or vegetable instead.

Over the years, these dishes stand out:

• Emilia Romagna: Tortellini in Broth, Cappelletti & Tagliatelle Bolognese
• Friuli: Cjalzons-half moon dumplings native to my region
• Tuscany: Papparadelle
• Rome: Amatriciana, Carabonara, Cacio e Pepe, & Alla Gricia
• Puglia: Orecchiette & Cavatelli
• Amalfi Coast: Spaghetti alle Vongole

Among the best pasta dishes above, were in Puglia & Emilia Romagna. Which are both, in my opinion, the best overall regions for food.

Savor Your Morning Coffee

Italy is famous for its coffee culture, and savoring a cup of espresso is an integral part of daily life. In fact, if you’ve been here before, you’ll know that morning coffee is my favorite ritual!

When ordering coffee in Italy, for some, it’s customary to drink it at the bar counter rather than sitting at a table.

While, I often go to the same local haunts like Italians, I will sit down and enjoy my cappuccino.

Yet, when I’m traveling, I sometimes belly up to the bar when there is limited seating or I’m in Venice. Since there is an additional charge to sit in some bars, embracing this tradition will free up some money for wine later!

Just know, this is not true of all bars, especially outside of main tourist areas. Where I live in Friuli, it is the same price to sit or drink at the bar.

PS. Don’t miss Affogato. Espresso with a scoop of gelato, it’s ideal on a hot day.

Experience the Aperitivo Culture

Italy is known for its vibrant aperitivo culture, a pre-dinner ritual that involves enjoying a drink and light snacks, usually with friends.

Aperitivo usually takes place between 6 pm and 9 pm and offers a chance to unwind after the work day. Outside of the big cities, it will include chips and nuts and in some places, a variety of appetizers and small bites.

Although, in my opinion, mid-afternoon is also a great time for any traveler to partake in aperitivo!

From the classic Spritz Aperol to Negroni, there’s a drink to suit every taste. So, join the locals at a bar, try a new drink, and savor the flavors in the lively atmosphere.

Raise Your Glass to Wine at Every Meal

Well, maybe not breakfast, for me at least. Yet, don’t be surprised if you see some of the older generation drinking wine well before lunch!

Italy is renowned for its world-class wines, and no lunch or dinner is complete without a glass of vino. Wine is an integral part of Italian culture and something to try both on its own and with food.

A good rule of thumb here is order local wine, it’s made to compliment the regional food. Don’t be afraid to ask the wait staff for a recommendation.

Most importantly, see wine time as an opportunity to slow down and savor, its part of experiencing la dolce vita.

Here are a two of my favorite wine experiences in Tuscany:

• One of the best experiences I’ve ever had was at The Torciano Winery in Tuscany. Their wine tastings are robust, the property is beautiful, and Pierluigi (the owner) is a passionate pioneer of wine experiences! Just outside San Gimignano, they also have a hotel and offer wine tasting and overnight packages on their fairytale property with stunning views. Go, you will not be disappointed.
  
• The other place I love it Columbini’s Fattoria Del Colle. One of the first wineries in Italy with an all female staff, this place is an authentic gem. Located in the beautiful Tuscan countryside, the Fattoria del Colle is an unspoilt and unique property, complete with a wine cellar, holiday apartments, a restaurant, two pools, a spa, olive groves, and epic views. A weekend here is like stepping inside a fairytale.

End on a Sweet Note: Gelato & Desserts

So many desserts, so little time!

Seriously, no food lover’s guide to eating in Italy would be complete without mentioning the mouthwatering dessoffer.

Like all food in Italy, desserts will vary from region to region and season to season. But, here are some not to be missed treats:

• Strudel di Mele: the best apple strudel is in The South Tyrol region
• Gelato: eat this anywhere & everywhere and try lots of flavors (pistachio and bacio are on the top of my list)
• Tiramisu: anywhere, but it hails from Treviso in The Veneto region
• Tartufo: (aka Pizzo in Calabria) this ice cream with syrup in the middle is a true indulgence
• Cioccolata Calda: Hot chocolate in Italy is like no other…thick and dense like pudding, with fresh shipped cream on top

And a few holiday treats:

• Christmas Panettone: buy it from the bakery, not the supermarket, it is infinitely better (my favorite, of course, is pistachio)
• Zepploe di San Giuseppe: Head to the bakery on March 19th to find these donut – cream treats with black cherries (if you’re lucky in the days before and after too)
• Columba: this traditional dove shaped easter cake is similar to Panettone (with or without candied fruit)

The Do’s & Dont’s of Eating in Italy

Italians tend to take their food seriously, and there are certain customs and traditions to be aware of when dining in Italy.

Here is a quick rundown of a few Do’s & Dont’s (so to speak):

• Firstly, it can be considered rude to ask for substitutions or alterations to a dish, as Italian cuisine is based on the concept of using fresh and seasonal ingredients that work in harmony.
  
• Do however, ask about specific preferences like vegan or vegetarian offerings, they have grown quite a bit over the years.
  
• Do make reservations, especially if there is a well-known place you have your heart set on, or if it’s a Michelin starred restaurant. By reserving a table in advance, there’s no room for disappointment.
  
• Generally speaking, restaurant hours are limited in Italy, especially outside of the main tourist areas. Plan to eat lunch between noon and 3 pm.
  
• Plan to eat dinner begins around 7, when restaurants generally open again.
  
• If it’s mid-day and you are hungry, do find a bar. More like cafes, they often have light snacks and sandwiches to tide you over until dinner.
  
• Do take your time! Italian dining is a leisurely affair, meant to be enjoyed & savored. Sit back, relax, and embrace the unhurried pace of the Italian dining experience.

• Don’t feel compelled to leave a tip. Unlike in some countries, tipping is not obligatory in Italy, as service charges are often included in the bill. However, if you receive exceptional service, it’s always appreciated to leave a small gratuity.
  
• Don’t order tap water: Unlike in some countries where tap water is commonly served, it’s not the norm in Italy. Instead, order bottled water with your meal.
  

Eateries & Courses in Italy

It’s helpful to know a little about the different types of eateries in Italy (and there are plenty). So you can make the best choices given your time, resources, & energy.

As well as really explore like a local.

Here are a few of the more common eateries you will find:

Ristorante // A full service sit-down restaurant with multi-course meals. Some will be more expensive than others.

Trattoria // Similar to a restaurant, but often less formal. The menu will be simpler and often it’s family run.

Osteria // Less formal than a restaurant, an osteria often has a small menu focusing on regional food & wine. Prices tend to be less expensive & they are often family run.

Bar // A bar in Italy is more like a caffe. It’s a place to get coffee, pastries and wine & drinks. They will often have snacks and sandwiches as well. 

-eria // Anything with an eria at the end of the word, mens it’s an eating establishment that serves/sells that product. Gelateria=Gelato. Pizzeria=Pizza. You get the idea.

Meals in Italy have many courses.

Yet unless it’s a holiday or wedding, Italians don’t eat them all in one sitting. The portion sizes are also smaller than in America, so it’s not as overwhelming as it to eat several courses. You can simply mix and match as you please.

Here’s a quick guide to courses when eating in Italy:

Antipasti // The starter. This is a great place to experience local & seasonal selections. And ideal to split with others.

Primi // The first course of hot food like pasta, risotto, soup, or dumplings.

Secondi // This is the main course, typically meat, poultry, game or seafood. Always the most expensive course on the menu.

Contorni // Side dishes of vegetables, potatoes or salad that are typically served with the second course.

Formaggi e Frutta // Cheese & Fruit are sometimes served to round out the meal. Or even in place of dessert.

Dolce // Dessert, save the best for last!

Caffe // Italians typically end meals with an espresso.

Digestivo // These are after-dinner drinks like limoncello, grappa & amaro that Italians sometimes drink to aid digestion.

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Eating in Italy is a culinary adventure like no other.

From the regional specialties to the local food markets, each bite tells a story of tradition, passion, and a genuine love for food.

So pack your bags, prepare your taste buds, and get ready to embark on a gastronomic journey through Italy.

Buon appetito tutti!

until the next time…
live well – travel well – be well

More Isights for you:

• Croda da Lago: A Dolomite Hike for The Senses
• Crocuses & Snow: A South Tyrol Photo Hike
• AMondeval Plateau: A Dolomite Afternoon of Self-Care