Before I departed for my semester abroad, I was constantly reminded by advisors and students about Italian dining culture. Throughout my time studying in Rome, I learned that the dining experience strongly emphasizes the value of seasonal goods and fresh, locally produced ingredients. Antipasto (appetizers), primo (first course, usually pasta or risotto), secondo (main course, usually meat or fish), contorno (side dishes), and dolce (dessert) are the courses that make up an Italian meal. Aperitivo also has an essential role in Italian dining. Aperitivo occurs in the hours after work and before dinner. In my Italian language and culture class, we learned that aperitivo means “to open,” where you open your stomach and prepare it for dinner by having a cocktail or two. It is like the Italian version of a happy hour. Eating meals slowly is highly regarded in the Italian dining tradition. After lunch, traditionally the largest meal of the day, one may take some time to rest. This particular time after lunch is known as Siesta. Dinner might start later in the evening and extend for several hours. It usually begins around 8 or 9 PM. It’s a social activity that cultivates a sense of community and shared experience as food and wine are enjoyed with loved ones.
Going into studying abroad, I tried to prepare myself for later meals and siesta. However, no matter how often I was warned, I was not as prepared as I thought. Adjusting to this lifestyle took some time to adapt to 100 percent. I didn’t dislike it, but it was somewhat challenging going from trying to eat dinner before 8 pm to only starting to make dinner or leave for a restaurant between 8 and 8:30! It also took a while to become accustomed to not being checked in on by your waiter every 10ish minutes. At first, it was annoying because, in some instances, the waiter would get annoyed if bothered more than once or twice. I understood that dinner, or any meal, was encouraged to take your time and enjoy; however, at the end of some meals, I would have to wait up to 20 minutes to be given the check.
From the perspective of someone who resides in Rome, the Italian food and dining culture is a cherished and profoundly ingrained aspect of daily life. It is not just about eating but the entire experience, encompassing family, tradition, and a solid connection to the land and its produce. Meals are considered a time to slow down, enjoy life, and connect with others. A Roman might find it strange to rush through a meal or eat on the go, as meals are an opportunity to savor the flavors and the company. This leisurely approach to dining is not just about the food itself but the conversation and bonding around the table. Whether it’s a Sunday family lunch or a casual dinner with friends, these gatherings are essential to the social fabric.
The experience prepared me to navigate successfully in a multicultural and globalized world by teaching me to appreciate and adapt to different cultural practices. By immersing myself in Italian dining traditions, I learned the importance of respecting and understanding diverse customs, such as the slower pace of meals and the focus on quality ingredients. This awareness and adaptability are essential for blending with people from various cultural backgrounds.