what to expect: dining
CAFFEINATE - EAT - APERITIVO - REPEAT
Reservations
Reservations are important in Italy, especially during peak season. Here is how
you can make restaurant reservations:
Use the app called TheFork. It's similar to OpenTable and easy to use.
Call or email the restaurant direct.
Contact your hotel or vacation home host and ask if they can assist with
making the reservation.
Dining Establishments
Bar: This is where you'll go for coffee and pastry in the mornings. Many will have
aperitivo later in the day as well.
Cafe: Try a cafe for a pinino while touring and sit outside for some great people
watching.
Enoteca: This is a wine bar with a focus on regional specialties. There will be
small bites but you're really here to have a glass (or bottle) of wine!
Osteria: Enjoy wine with a simple meal here.
Pizzeria: Find pizza and other local favorites for lunch or dinner. Note: order one
pizza per person and cut it yourself. Some restaurants only offer pizza for dinner.
Ristorante: A fancier dining experience with multiple courses. Note: If a small bowl
of grated parmesan cheese did not automatically come with your meal, chances
are, it does not complement your dish and probably should not be asked for.
Trattoria: More casual than a ristorante but plenty of menu options.
Cover (Service) Charge
Most restaurants will add a €1-€3 per person service charge to the check. This is a
standard practice and covers bread, oil, and other condiments on the table. It's
normally listed on the menu as "coperto" which translated to cover, or "pane e
coperto" bread and cover. It's mandatory to pay this and it's not a tip. The price is
determined by each restaurant.
RESTAURANT INFO
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