This article was adapted from the original itinerary published on the blog Visit Naples and Amalfi Coast Travel Tips
Brushing Up on the Obvious Good Graces
Visitors often push the boundaries of what’s acceptable when they eat or drink in Italy. Italians are passionate about their cuisine, and a few quirks that seem normal outside of Italy can make a person look a bit odd here. To help you enjoy every meal like a local, here’s my personal list of what not to do when you’re dining out in Italy.
1. Bars and Restaurants
1. Never ask for a “Latte.”
In Italy, latte means milk. If you ask for one, you’ll get exactly that – a glass of milk. If you want coffee with milk, order a caffè (con) latte.
2. No cappuccino after midday.
Cappuccino is a morning drink, usually enjoyed with breakfast. After 12 p.m., it’s espresso time. Ordering cappuccino later in the day is something non Italians do. In tourist areas, you’ll still get served no problem, just know the barista is smirking on the inside.
3. No butter with bread.
Bread (pane) is served plain, and that’s how it’s meant to be eaten. Italians enjoy the flavour and texture as it is, however olive oil is permitted, of course. As is ‘Scarpetta-ing’ (wiping up all remaining sauce with bread) at the end of a dish.
2. Pasta and Pizza
4. Never ask for pineapple on your pizza.
Asking for pineapple on pizza is unthinkable in Italy. Keep it simple with traditional toppings, respect and follow the advice of the pizziolo.
5. Pasta should be al dente.
If the pasta feels slightly firm, it’s perfect. Overcooked pasta is one of the worst food crimes of a chef in Italy, and a devastation to them personally.
6. No Parmesan on seafood pasta.
Cheese and seafood don’t mix. Parmesan hides the delicate flavour of the fish, and no Italian chef would serve it that way.
7. “Spaghetti Bolognese” isn’t authentic.
You’ll only find that label in restaurants aimed at tourists unfamiliar with how to pair meats with pasta, and likely to result in a weird, westernised bastardisation. In Italy, the correct dish is tagliatelle al ragù alla bolognese.
8. Forget Pasta Alfredo and Spaghetti & Meatballs.
They’re Italian-American creations, not Italian classics. Alfredo sauce isn’t traditional, and spaghetti never comes with meatballs in Italy. They’re also modern con-fusion food interpretations of original recipes. Skip them.
9. “Chicken Parmigiana” isn’t a traditional Italian dish
Even though crumbed meats known “Cotolette” are staples in many Italian households. When you spot “parmigiana” on a menu, eggplant is the star of the show, not chicken. Head to the north of Italy for a an authentic treat of “cotoletta alla milanese” made with veal in Milan. Save your “chicken parma” order for the pub when you get home.
3. Spaghetti Rules
10. You won’t find tinned spaghetti.
Italian supermarkets don’t sell it, so if you love it, bring your own (and keep it well hidden at the bnb). Italians insist on freshly cooked pasta. If invited to someone’s home, there’s a chance you might be offered a slice of pasta bake, but never, ever from a can.
11. Never break spaghetti before cooking.
Watching someone snap spaghetti in half or small pieces strikes at the heart of every Italian, despite a proliferation of ridiculous reels and youtubers getting creative with spaghetti. Respect the creator, let the long strands soften naturally in the water. If you want short pasta, choose another variety. Simple as that!
12. Don’t cut spaghetti.
No knives for spaghetti or long pasta. It should be twirled elegantly with a fork, not chopped into small pieces. Start from the outer edges of the plate and twirl a few strands at a time. Take your time and don’t try to scoff a giant fork-full into your mouth all at once if feeling awkward. It’s easy to get the hang of it with patience, and a little practice.
13. Keep ketchup away from pasta.
Pasta deserves real sauces – passata, carbonara, amatriciana, or ragù. Ketchup is for fries, not for spaghetti. Don’t even think about heating pasta and ketchup in the microwave, embarrassing but true. There are still humans walking the planet guilty of this food crime.
14. Don’t drown pasta in sauce.
There should be just enough to coat the slightly salty pasta, never so much that it’s swimming in it. The balance between the flavour of the pasta and its sauce is crucial.
15. No spoon twirling.
Many visitors try the fork-spoon combo, but Italians don’t. Long pasta is twirled against the plate, which looks more natural and elegant. Occasionally you’ll be offered a spoon for short pasta, risotto or very saucy dishes. It’s more elegant to decline and still with the fork. Soups are the exception, naturally.
Dining in Italy is a richer, more satisfying experience when you understand the local customs and how to be polite. Follow these simple tips, and you’ll enjoy your meals the way Italians do – relaxed, flavourful, and full of respect for the chef.
You can find more of my travel advice and tips here: Visit Naples and Amalfi Coast Travel Tips.
