Italian cuisine is beloved for its rich flavors and quality ingredients, but not all menu items are equally delicious. Whether you’re dining at a local trattoria or a high-end ristorante, some dishes may leave you disappointed. Learning what to order can save money and gain a deeper appreciation for authentic Italian flavors.
Spaghetti and Meatballs
While this dish is associated with Italian cuisine, it’s an Italian-American creation. Typically, Italians serve meatballs as a separate course. Ordering the dish in a traditional Italian restaurant might raise eyebrows. If you’re looking for more authentic Italian cuisine, order pasta dishes like spaghetti ala carbonara, cacio e pepe, or pasta al pomodoro.
Fettuccine Alfredo
Another Italian-American creation, fettuccine alfredo, doesn’t exist in Italian cuisine. The original Roman dish, fettuccine al burro, is much simpler, using only pasta, butter, and parmigiana-reggiano cheese.
Caesar Salad
Caesar Salad was invented in Mexico by an Italian immigrant. It’s not a traditional Italian dish and isn’t typically found in authentic Italian restaurants. Consider ordering insalata caprese, which includes fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, or a Panzanella, a Tuscan bread salad. These dishes showcase authentic Italian flavors better than Caesar salad.
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is delicious, but it’s not authentically Italian. In Italy, you’re more likely to find bruschetta or bread served with olive oil. Ordering garlic bread suggests that you’re expecting more of an Italian-American cuisine. Instead, order crusty bread as is with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. If you’re craving something with more flavor, look for bruschetta on the menu. This appetizer consists of grilled bread rubbed with garlic and topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and olive oil.
Italian Dressing
Italian dressing is a vinaigrette with herbs and cheese but isn’t Italian at all. In Italy, salads are usually dressed with olive oil and vinegar with diners often applying themselves at the table. When your salad arrives, it’ll likely be undressed but you’ll find bottles of extra virgin olive oil and vinegar (often balsamic or red wine vinegar) on the table.
Chicken Parmesan
While popular in Italian-American restaurants, chicken parmesan (or chicken parmigiana) is not a traditional Italian dish. In Italy, the dish is made with eggplant, not chicken. Consider focusing on more traditional chicken-based courses like pollo all cacciatora, or pollo al marsala. If you’re interested in trying a true parmigiana, order the eggplant version as a side dish or appetizer.
Pepperoni Pizza
While pizza is undoubtedly Italian, “pepperoni” pizza doesn’t exist in Italy. The closest equivalent is “salame piccante” (spicy salami). Instead, try a classic Margherita with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and basil, or venture into regional specialties like a Quattro Formaggi (four cheese) or Pizza al Prosciutto e Funghi (ham and mushroom).
Cappuccino After Dinner
Cappuccinos are, of course, Italian. However, ordering it after dinner is a faux pas in Italy. Italians consume cappuccino and other milk-based drinks only in the morning, believing that milk interferes with digestion later in the day. Ordering one after your evening meal might expose you as a tourist or suggest unfamiliarity with Italian coffee culture. Instead, embrace Italian tradition and order an espresso after your evening meal.
Pasta as a Main Course
In Italy, pasta is typically served as a first course not as a main dish. Start with an antipasto (appetizer), followed by a smaller portion of pasta as your first course. Then move onto a main course of meat or fish, accompanied by a side dish of vegetables.
Bottomless Breadsticks
While some American-Italian restaurants offer bottomless breadsticks, this is not a thing in authentic Italian restaurants. In Italy, bread is served in a basket and is meant to accompany the meal, not fill you up beforehand. In many parts of Italy, it’s common to use bread to fare la Scarpetta – literally “make a little shoe” – by using a small piece of bread to soak up the remaining sauce on your plate. This is a respectful way to enjoy every last bit of your dish.
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