Italian Cuisine - Food Establishments

Food Establishments

Each type of establishment has a defined role and traditionally sticks to it.

Establishment Description
Agriturismo Working farms that offer accommodations and meals. Often the meals are served to guests only. Marked by a green and gold sign with a knife and fork.
Bar/Caffé Locations which serve coffee, soft drinks, juice and alcohol. Hours are generally from 6am to 10pm. Foods may include brioche, panini, tramezzini (sandwiches) and spuntini (snacks such as olives, potato crisps and small pieces of frittata).
Birreria A bar that offers beer found in central and northern regions of Italy.
Bruschetteria Specialises in Bruschetta, though other dishes may also be offered.
Frasca/Locanda Friulian wine producers that open for the evening and may offer food along with their wines.
Gelateria An Italian ice cream shop/bar, that sells gelato. A shop where the customer can get his or her gelato to go, or sit down and eat it in a cup or a cone. Bigger ice desserts, coffee, or liquors may also be ordered.
Osteria Focused on simple food of the region, often having only a verbal menu. Many are open only at night but some open for lunch.
Paninoteca Sandwich shop open during the day.
Pizzeria Locations specializing in Pizza. Wood fired-pizza ovens are a specialty of Italy.
Polenteria A regional establishment seen in limited number north of Emilia-Romagna.
Ristorante Often offers upscale cuisine and printed menus.
Spaghetteria Originating in Naples, offering pasta dishes and other main courses.
Tavola Calda Literally "hot table", offers pre-made regional dishes. Most open at 11am and close late.
Trattoria A dining establishment often family run with inexpensive prices and an informal atmosphere.

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