Eating Well, but Cheaply in Italy

Posted by Barbara Rogers Sep 6, 2007

In my last blog, I asked for your questions and suggestions, and -- wow – did I get them! Everything from tips on places to visit – the Blue Grotto and the view of modern Athens from the Acropolis – to questions on everything from cheap lodging and dining in Rome to Portuguese folklore.

Look for articles and blogs based on these suggestions in coming weeks, but for now, I’ll address the question of affordable travel in Italy. This has become even more important with the continued drop in the value of the American dollar. When a Euro costs $1.50, it’s time to think seriously about money-saving strategies, especially in Italy.

Here are a few of our tricks and tips for low-cost dining:

• When looking for restaurants, avoid the heavily touristed streets and look in the neighborhoods where locals live and work. The farther you are from a popular attraction, the more likely you are to find authentic local food at local prices.
• Don’t be afraid of eating places without English menus. You will be welcomed and if necessary, the waiter will use pantomime or show you foods so you can make a selection. Restaurants in Italy post a menu with prices, so you can get an idea of the range before you enter, even if you can’t read the dishes.
• For lunch, look for the “tavola calda” places. They serve hearty cafeteria-style meals where you can see each dish before asking for a serving. Prices are designed for locals. Make this your main meal.
• In the evening, do as the locals do and eat a lighter meal, ordering just a pasta course or an appetizer. These are usually ample, especially if you had a larger meal at midday.
• Order vino de tavola – table wine – instead of a bottle.