A True Story from a Travel Advisor Who Ate Her Way Through Italy
Hey y’all,
There’s something about Italy that just speaks to your soul — the beauty, the history, and, of course, the food.
When I visited, I made it my personal mission to taste my way through the country. I ate gelato every single day (no regrets there), enjoyed the best steak dinner of my life in Florence, and fell head-over-heels for Italian pizza, chocolate, and every lemon-flavored dessert I could find.
But along with those incredible meals came a few cultural surprises — little moments that taught me how Italians truly savor life. Here’s what I learned, and what you’ll want to know before you go.
🍝 The Art of Slow Dining
The first thing I learned is that Italians do not rush through meals — ever. Dinner isn’t just eating; it’s an experience.
We sat down one evening in Rome after a long day of sightseeing, and I noticed no one seemed in a hurry. People lingered over their food, talked with their hands, and laughed for hours.
When I finally decided I was ready to leave, I waited and waited… and waited some more. Finally, I learned the secret: in Italy, your server won’t bring the check until you ask for it.
📝 Tip: When you’re ready to pay, just say “Il conto, per favore” (eel CON-toh, pair fah-VOH-ray). It’s polite, expected, and saves you a lot of guessing.
And before you leave — use the restroom! Public restrooms in Italy can be hard to find and often charge a small fee, so go before you head out.
(Insert section image: “Italy Cafe Table.png” — landscape 1200x800px. Alt text: “Italian café table with bread, carafe of water, and cobblestone background.”)
☕ Coffee Culture (and Mike’s Little Struggle)
Now, let’s talk about coffee — or as my husband, My Prince Mike, would call it, “not quite enough coffee.”
In Italy, if you order a “coffee,” you’re getting an espresso — small, strong, and over in two sips. Mike, who loves a big mug of black coffee, looked at that tiny cup like it was a joke.
He eventually gave up and switched to hot tea, which has now become his go-to whenever we’re traveling in Europe.
📝 Tip: If you want something closer to what we drink in the U.S., order an “Americano.” It’s espresso with hot water added — not quite the same as a Tennessee diner cup, but it’ll do in a pinch.
And remember — Italians never drink milky coffee (like cappuccino) after 11 a.m. It’s strictly a breakfast thing. Order one after lunch, and you’ll get a few funny looks.
💧 Water, Coperto, and the Mystery of the Bill
I was surprised to find out that even water isn’t free in Italian restaurants! When the waiter asks, “Acqua naturale o gassata?” they’re asking if you want still or sparkling bottled water.
But if you want tap water — which is perfectly safe — you just say “acqua del rubinetto.”
📝 Tip: Tap water is safe and free. Bottled water costs a few euros, but sometimes it’s nice to have a cold one on the table. Either way, it’s your call!
And if you see a coperto charge (a couple of euros per person), that’s normal too — it’s the cover charge for bread and table service. Rounding up the bill for good service is always appreciated, but tipping is not expected like it is in the States.
🥩 The Best Steak (Cooked My Way!)
Let’s talk about Florence — where I had the best steak dinner I’ve ever had. And no, I did not go for the traditional rare Florentine style (I know my limits!).
I asked for mine well done, thank you very much, and it was still delicious — tender, perfectly seasoned, and served with simple sides that let the quality of the ingredients shine.
That’s the secret to Italian dining: fewer ingredients, more flavor, and total confidence in what’s on the plate.
👩🍳 Cooking Up Memories
When I go back to Italy — and you can bet I will — I plan to take a cooking class. It’s been on my travel bucket list for years.
Cooking alongside Italians, learning their recipes, and sharing a meal you made together sounds like an experience you’ll never forget. There are options all over the country — pasta-making in Florence, pizza-making in Rome, even lemon-themed classes on the Amalfi Coast.
📝 Tip: Whether you’re a foodie or just want to try something different, I can help you find a class to fit your itinerary. It’s a delicious way to connect with Italian culture.
🍋 Save Room for Dessert
It’s no secret that I have a sweet tooth — and in Italy, dessert is an art form. From creamy chocolate gelato to lemon tarts that taste like sunshine, there’s always room for “just one more bite.”
Inspired by Italy’s love of lemons, I came home and created my own dessert that reminds me of those sunny days along the coast — my Amalfi Sunshine Lemon Bars.
🍋 Amalfi Sunshine Lemon Bars
One bite of these bright, buttery bars and you’ll swear you’re standing on the Amalfi Coast with lemon trees in bloom. They’re easy to make, travel well, and pair perfectly with a cup of coffee — morning or afternoon.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 cups flour
- 4 large eggs
- 1½ cups sugar (for filling)
- ¼ cup flour
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2–3 lemons)
- Zest of 2 lemons
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 pan with parchment paper.
- Mix melted butter, ½ cup sugar, and 2 cups flour. Press evenly into pan to form crust. Bake for 18–20 minutes until lightly golden.
- In a bowl, whisk eggs, 1½ cups sugar, ¼ cup flour, lemon juice, and zest. Pour over hot crust.
- Bake for another 20–25 minutes. Cool completely, then dust with powdered sugar.
- Slice into squares, serve chilled or room temperature, and imagine yourself in Positano.
Ciao for now!
A Little About Me
Hi y’all, I’m Tara! There’s nothing I love more than traveling the world with my husband, Mike, and exploring the beauty of God’s handiwork. As an avid reader, when I’m not off on a real-life adventure, you can usually find me reading about one!
I poured that passion into my business, Tailored Travel, a full-service travel agency where my team and I would be tickled to help you cross the next destination off your list — including this beautiful place.
Let’s Start Designing Your Dream Trip!
📧 tara@tailoredtravel.vacations
📞 (423) 641-1070