Superlissimo Italian food

true, but I'm always open to suggestions of others' pleasurable experiences, whether they be food discoveries or other travel finds.

Josephine,

It's difficult to answer your question, as what's a MUST eat or NOT edible for me might be perfectly fine for you (or vice versa). Do you eat Italian food regularly, and if so what do you like?

You may be aware of this, but if not one thing to mention is that Italian meals come in "waves". There's the Antipasti, then Primi and finally Secondi. If you buy the "full meal deal" you'll need a very generous budget as it won't be cheap! Most times I don't order a "complete" meal, but rather just Insalata and a Pasta dish (and of course some Vino!).

If you like salads, DON'T expect Thousand Island dressing, as the only thing I've seen in Italy so far is Oil & Vinegar.

What's NOT edible for me is perfectly palatable for many Italians. One food that I "draw the line at" is horse meat (Cavallo). In Florence I'll often order Pasta with Pesto, while in Rome often Spaghetti Carbonara.

Happy travels!

thanks Ken -your suggestions were very helpful. I did not know about the 'waves' - so you've saved me molto euros! I will definitely avoid 'cavallo' and go for your more mouth watering alternatives! grazie.

Josephine, In Florence (& all through Tuscany), I really enjoyed Ribollita Soup and Porchetta (rolled pork roast with lots of rosemary. I didn't have many meals in Rome but remember that the meats, pastas and desserts were all good. I don't think that you will find many inedible meals in Italy unless you go to touristy, fast food places and even then most of the food is delicious. The Pesto in Liguria is incredibly good as is the seafood. Just don't expect everything to be served with the same dressings etc. that are expected in North America and you won't be disappointed. Sherry

thanks Sherry. As you hinted, I may be ok with whatever comes my way, because I don't like North american dressings, but I l-o-v-e- pesto, and will definitely look out for your suggestions, esp. seafood. Grazie

I agree with Sherry about the Ribollita soup. If you can find Cecina, have it with plenty of pepper. We loved it in Lucca. Looks a little weird, but YUM!

The best part about favorite food finds in Italy is coming home and creating them in your own kitchen. Your cooking will never be the same again (in my case - Thank God).

I'd be more concerned with WHERE you eat, rather than WHAT you eat. I would try to avoid places in major squares, places where they stand outside and try to lure you in, places with rotating menus in 5 languages, places that have a "tourist menu".... etc. but for me, a must eat - several times a day in fact ;) - is gelato. real, homemade, from tiny hole-in-the-wall places........i wish i could have some right now in fact!