Although everyone loves Italian food, figuring out how, where and what to eat in Italy can pose problems for the traveller. Knowing what type of meal or snack you wish to have and considering time limitations, you may wish to consider one of the following choices:
Bar: The place to have espresso and all its variations, rolls (panini) and small sandwiches (tramezzini), alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Pay first and give the receipt to the barman with the order. It is usual to stand at the bar, as there is a service charge for sitting at a table. Bars in Italy are open from early in the morning to late at night.
Paninoteca: A sandwich bar where you can have a quick meal.
Trattoria: Less formal than a ristorante and where local specialities are served.
Ristorante: The most formal type of place to eat and where, traditionally, one is not in a hurry. The order of courses is antipasto, pasta or soup, main course with salad or vegetables, dessert and coffee.
It is customary in Italy to provide the coperto, constituted by the normal table dressing and a small basket of bread. This will be included in the final bill and is charged per person (about €2 per person). A service charge might be included although it is customary to leave a tip (5% to 10% according to the bill).
There are plenty of discos and nightclubs in every major city or tourist resort all over Italy. You can visit www.discoteche.it or contact the local Tourist Office.