Every region in Italy offers distinctive regional specialities that locals take great pride in and passionately preserve. Traditional Italian menus are typically divided into five clearly defined sections. A classic Italian meal generally includes an appetizer, a first course (primo), a second course (secondo) accompanied by a side dish (contorno), and is then followed by dessert and coffee. While you are not required to order all of these courses during a single meal, particularly if you’re dining casually or on the go, in a more formal or upscale restaurant it is customary and expected to enjoy more than just a simple pasta and salad. This clear structure highlights the variety, depth, and richness of Italian cuisine and the importance of savouring each course.
On our Italy tour, you will receive a combination of breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks throughout your trip.
Your included meals and any special dining arrangements will be clearly outlined on your final itinerary.
Olive Oil Cake and Oilve Oil Spaghetti
Antipasti: Appetizer
Antipasti's come before the main meal. A choice could be a plate of the local cold cuts (ie.cured ham and melon) or a salad.. ( I do find you can easily skip this course if you do not want to spend more money)
The First Course - Primo:
The first course is usually your pasta dish, soup, or risotto. Usually there are several pasta choices.
Please remember.. The portion size will usually be smaller than what you are use to in America.. If this is all you order..ie Rigatoni, Spaghetti with bolognese sauce (meat sauce) or Ravioli with ricotta and spinach you will go hungry.
Grandma's Lasagna
The Second or Main Course - Secondo:
The second course will be your meat, poultry, or fish dish. It doesn't usually include a side dish....ie any potato or vegetable...While some may.. Don't expect it will... There are sometimes one or two vegetarian offerings, although if they are not on the menu you can usually ask for a vegetarian dish and/ or a gluten free dish.
The Side Dishes - Contorni:
Usually you will want to order a side dish with your main course. This could be a vegetable (verdura), potato, or insalata (salad).
The Dessert - Dolce:
Now it's time for dolce. I do suggest you eat dessert. Even if you plan on having Gelato soon after or later in the day/night. Most often there may be a choice of fruit.
There will also be plenty of rich, sweet creamy desserts to choose from. Dessert is also when you would order your coffee.. Or more wine or an after dinner drink.