Italy's Cuisine: The Food Man, The Food!

RESTAURANTS AND EATING OUT

During your Queenslander Tour you will have a certain number of meals that are provided for you, but there will be times when you are free to go wherever you like. On nights that a meal is not provided for you, you will be invited to go with your Tour Captain to a local restaurant. However, if you choose to go it alone, stay away from chain-type establishments. Instead, opt for the local experience. If you are uncertain, ask your hotel clerk to recommend a good place that’s close by. Stick with a “ristorante” or “osteria” for your evening meal.

For daytime, a “trattoria” or “café” is generally a safe bet. Even rest stops along the highway can have a nice choice of sandwiches and other fare. Some even have a wonderful selection of hot, home cooked meals. Don’t be surprised, however, if you have to stand in rest stops or coffee shops along the way. Most people in Italy will stand at the counter to have their coffee. If you want to sit outside, you may have to pay a small fee for the pleasure. In Venice, at the Piazza San Marco for example, you will probably pay a fee or “Musica Supplemento” of at least 5 Euros to enjoy the live music. Hey, it’s Venice! Spend the extra money, and don’t worry about it. Life’s too short not to enjoy these extra delights.

Thanks to the advent of Starbucks, most Americans are now familiar with ordering a latte, mocha, or cappuccino, but in Italy it’s generally bad form to order a cappuccino after 11 a.m. If you prefer a more American-style coffee, simply ask for a “café Americano”, which is basically an extra shot of espresso mixed with hot water. This was a local adaptation to accommodate the American GI’s during World War II. If you only order water to drink, you may be asked if you want your water “with gas” (carbonated) or “still”, meaning regular or “naturelle”.

When visiting these establishments, you will sometimes find that the restroom is cared for by an attendant. They may sit outside the door with a plate or dish and expect to receive a small tip. A few small coins will do, but don’t feel overly pressured to tip. If it feels appropriate to tip, please do so.

Keep all receipts. A Revenue Official may ask to see your receipt within feet of an eating establishment to make sure you’ve paid. You can potentially be fined if you cannot produce it. http://www.queenslandertours.com/qtt/italy.htm