Restaurants Tuscany

There are many names for restaurants in Italy. This explains what is available at each type of restaurant.

Breakfast - colazione served between 7-10:30

Lunch - pranzo served between 12-2:30

Dinner - cena served between 7:30-10

Trattoria, Osteria or Ristorante Fine dining. Menu usually begins with antipasti hors d’ oeuvres. Then Primi soup, pasta or rice. Next Secondi meat or fish choice sometimes with vegetable or a salad. Last course Frutta, Formaggio or Dolci. This course of fruit, cheese or sweets can be served alone or in combination. Espresso is always at the end of the meal.

When you receive your check look for a cover charge “coperto”. It will usually be at the top of the check. Most places charge this small fee.

If the bottom of your check says “servizio” you do not have to leave a tip. It is included. Otherwise normal tipping is 10%.

Birreria or Spaghetteria - Not as fancy. Mainly pasta dishes and snacks.

Pizzeria - Inexpensive and informal. Pizza, Pasta, Meats and Fish. Bruschetta, Crostini, fresh fruit and Gelato. Open in the evenings.

Enoteca - Wine Bar. You can order one dish. No courses. Cheeses, Meats, Salads, Soups and Pastas. Wine and beer.

Cafes & Bars - Open from 7am to 9pm sometimes later. Great places to get breakfast. They serve small bites to eat and sandwiches. Coffee, beer and wine.

Gelateria - Ice cream. Gelato is wonderful. The flavors are exactly what you order.

At some of the smaller bars and cafes you pay first then bring your receipt to the counter. Also if you sit down you may pay more. Standing is common and cheaper.