Published on and written by Cyril Jarnias
Italy, the birthplace of one of the world’s most beloved cuisines, offers expats who settle there a unique gastronomic experience. This guide will take you on a journey to discover the flavors, culinary traditions, and secrets of the Italian table, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the culture of your host country.
The Foundations of Italian Cuisine
Italian gastronomy is based on simple yet essential principles: the freshness of ingredients, respect for the seasons, and the valorization of local products. Each region of Italy has its own specialties, reflecting its history, geography, and traditions.
In the north, you’ll discover richer, creamier dishes highlighting red meat, cured meats, cheeses, and mushrooms. Risotto and stews are especially popular there. In the south, the cuisine leans more toward seafood, fresh herbs, olive oil, and colorful vegetables like tomatoes, eggplants, and bell peppers.
Italian cuisine has its roots in ancient Roman times, but it has also been influenced by various cultures over the centuries, including Arab, Greek, and Spanish. This rich history is reflected in the diversity and complexity of the dishes you’ll have the pleasure of discovering.
Good to know:
Italian cuisine varies considerably from one region to another. As an expat, don’t hesitate to explore the local specialties of your host region for an authentic culinary experience.
The Must-Haves of Italian Gastronomy
Your culinary journey in Italy wouldn’t be complete without discovering some iconic dishes. Here’s an overview of the specialties you absolutely must try:
1. Antipasti
Antipasti are the starting point of any proper Italian meal. These varied appetizers typically include:
Feel free to compose your own antipasti platter for a rich and varied taste experience.
2. Pasta
A true institution in Italy, pasta comes in many forms and is paired with a multitude of sauces. Among the must-try pasta dishes are:
To eat your pasta like a true Italian, cook it al dente and don’t hesitate to add a bit of pasta water to your sauce so it sticks better to the noodles.
3. Pizza
Originally from Naples, pizza has become a symbol of Italian cuisine worldwide. Authentic Neapolitan pizza is characterized by a thin, crispy crust, simply topped with San Marzano tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, and fresh basil.
4. Risotto
A specialty of northern Italy, risotto is a creamy dish made with Arborio rice, slowly cooked by gradually incorporating broth. It can be enhanced with various ingredients like mushrooms, seafood, or saffron.
5. Desserts
Italian gastronomy wouldn’t be complete without its delicious desserts. Among the most famous are:
Good to know:
Italians consume an average of 23 kg of pasta per person per year, making them the world’s largest pasta consumers. As an expat, get ready to discover an endless variety of pasta shapes and recipes!
Discovering Local Markets
To truly immerse yourself in Italian culinary culture, nothing beats a visit to local markets. These vibrant places are the heart of Italian gastronomy, where producers and consumers meet in a friendly atmosphere.
Italian markets are a true feast for the senses. You’ll find an abundance of fresh, local products:
Don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation with the vendors. They’ll be happy to share their knowledge about the products and give you preparation tips. It’s also a great opportunity to practice your Italian and get familiar with local culinary vocabulary.
Some iconic markets not to be missed:
Good to know:
Italian markets are generally open early in the morning and close in the early afternoon. To get the best products, it’s recommended to go right when they open.
Iconic Restaurants and Contemporary Trends
While markets let you discover the basic ingredients of Italian cuisine, restaurants offer you the chance to taste Italian culinary art in all its splendor.
Traditional Trattorias
Trattorias are family-run restaurants serving authentic local cuisine. It’s in these establishments that you can truly taste the soul of Italian cooking. Menus often change based on available seasonal products.
A few renowned trattorias:
Michelin-Starred Restaurants
Italy also boasts many Michelin-starred restaurants that reinvent traditional cuisine with a modern twist. These establishments offer a high-level gastronomic experience, combining innovative techniques with respect for local products.
A few starred restaurants to discover:
Contemporary Trends
The Italian culinary scene is constantly evolving, incorporating new influences while staying true to its roots. Among current trends, there’s a growing interest in vegetarian and vegan cuisine, as well as a particular focus on sustainability and organic products.
Restaurants like Joia in Milan, Europe’s first Michelin-starred vegetarian restaurant, perfectly illustrate this trend.
Good to know:
In Italy, it’s common to take your time eating. Meals are considered moments of sharing and conviviality. Don’t hesitate to adopt this slower pace and fully enjoy each dish.
Table Etiquette in Italy
Understanding table etiquette is essential for fully integrating into Italian culture. Here are some rules to know depending on the context:
In a Family Setting
In a Professional Setting
In a Formal Setting
In all contexts, it’s important not to add cheese to seafood dishes; it’s considered a culinary faux pas in Italy.
Good to know:
In Italy, coffee (espresso) is typically drunk after the meal, never during. Additionally, cappuccino is considered a morning drink and is generally not ordered after 11 a.m.
Finding International Ingredients
Although Italian cuisine is delicious, it’s natural for an expat to sometimes want to cook dishes from their home country. Here are some tips for finding international ingredients in Italy:
Remember that some ingredients may have Italian equivalents that could work for your recipes. Don’t hesitate to ask local shopkeepers for advice; they can often suggest interesting alternatives.
Good to know:
If you can’t find a specific ingredient, try adapting it with a local product. This approach can lead to delicious variations of your favorite recipes!
In conclusion, discovering Italian gastronomy is an exciting adventure that will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the culture of your host country. From colorful markets to Michelin-starred restaurants, and family-run trattorias, each culinary experience will bring you a little closer to the Italian art of living. Remember that food is at the heart of social life in Italy, so don’t hesitate to share your discoveries and meals with your new Italian friends and colleagues. Buon appetito!
Cyril Jarnias is an independent expert in international wealth management with over 20 years of experience. As an expatriate himself, he is dedicated to helping individuals and business leaders build, protect, and pass on their wealth with complete peace of mind.
On his website, cyriljarnias.com, he shares his expertise on international real estate, offshore company formation, and expatriation.
Thanks to his expertise, he offers sound advice to optimize his clients' wealth management. Cyril Jarnias is also recognized for his appearances in many prestigious media outlets such as BFM Business, les Français de l’étranger, Le Figaro, Les Echos, and Mieux vivre votre argent, where he shares his knowledge and know-how in wealth management.
