photo credit: alessandraelle
When searching for gourmet Italian cuisine, visitors may become confused about the difference between an Osteria, a Trattoria and a Ristorante. Actually, these distinctions were more prominent historically than they are in modern times.
In earlier times, and Osteria was sort of a rustic tavern. It was an establishment where one would stop in for a glass of regional wine and perhaps some very simple bit of food. Then came along the Trattoria. These tended to be run by families. Here they would serve mostly traditional Italian food in a cozy atmosphere. Literally, an Osteria is a tavern or inn, but today it usually means the same as a Trattoria.
Finally, along came the Ristorante. This was a more sophisticated establishment serving evening meals, but of course some also serve lunch. Ristorantes are more expensive and serve haute cuisine, whereas Trattorias primarily serve the traditional offerings of local specialties at mealtimes are often later than you may be used to. Around Florence, for example, Pranzo – or lunch – is usually from 1:00 p.m. to about 2:30 p.m., and Cena – or dinner – is enjoyed from 7:30 p.m. to about 10:30 p.m. In some of the more simple eateries, there is not always a menu. Your waiter will recite the offerings available, so listen closely.
Another thing that may seem a little odd at first is that rather than having coffee with dessert, the coffee comes AFTER dessert. Also, a cappuccino is never something that concludes a meal. It is looked upon as a snack beverage or even a breakfast drink.
Gourmet Italian cuisine is meant to be enjoyed leisurely. It is considered rude to rush diners through a meal. Therefore, your waiter will wait to bring the bill until you ask for it – as a courtesy to the diners.
So be it an Osteria, a Trattoria or a Ristorante, you are sure to make some wonderful memories while enjoying some of the gourmet Italian cuisine of this fabulous country!
Mangia Bene!
