Imagine sitting at a beautifully set table in a charming Italian home, the scent of fresh basil and garlic wafting through the air. The wine is flowing, the laughter is contagious, and the food? Oh, the food is something to die for. Dining with an Italian local is not just a meal; it’s an experience representing Italy’s heart and soul.
Links to my trusted travel vendors!
Booking.com for your accommodations.
Viator for your things to do.
GetYourGuide for more things to do.
Discover Cars for your road trip.
Omio for your trains and buses.
Dinner With A Local Italian
Dining with a local in Italy (I chose to do this in Florence) offers a unique glimpse into the country’s culinary traditions and warm hospitality. It’s an opportunity to savor authentic dishes prepared with love and experience the essence of Italian culture.
How To Get This Experience
First, let me just say that this was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. I booked it through EatWith, an awesome platform that offers culinary experiences like this worldwide. EatWith connects you with hosts who are passionate about sharing their love of food and culture. It’s super easy to use – browse, book, and get ready for an unforgettable experience. The best part? Whether you’re in Florence or any other corner of the globe, you’ll walk away with new friends, amazing memories, and a satisfied stomach.
My EatWith Experience
When I first discovered the EatWith platform, I knew it was something I had to try. My love for Italy runs deep, and I was craving a truly authentic experience that went beyond the typical tourist activities. EatWith seemed like the perfect way to connect with locals and immerse myself in the culinary traditions of the region. After browsing through the many tempting options available in Florence, I found the perfect match: a dinner hosted by the sweetest person, Valeria. Her menu promised a pleasant journey through the flavors of the Adriatic Sea, and I couldn’t resist the opportunity to join her for an evening of delicious food and great company.
Arrival
Upon arrival, I was warmly greeted by Valeria and her partner, Andrea, who handed me a refreshing glass of wine. Soon after, two other couples arrived to join the dinner. Everyone was wonderful – one couple was from Arizona, and the other from Puerto Rico. The conversation flowed effortlessly as we all connected and shared stories. Learning about our hosts and their culinary journey was amazing, making the evening even more enjoyable.
The Dinner
The dinner I booked with Valeria was a seafood extravaganza titled “Adriatic Seas to Florence: East Coast Fish Delight.” Although she also hosted a steak dinner on another night, the seafood option was ideal for me since I consume red meat.
Every bite was beyond mouthwatering. We savored four exquisite courses, each accompanied by free-flowing wine – with both red and white available. The meal began with a light appetizer of millefoglie of pane carasau with an inzimino of calamari. For the first course, Valeria served a scrumptious pasta mare e monti, featuring clams, mushrooms, and seafood. The second course was pallotte cacio e ova abruzzesi – these resembled meatballs but contained no meat. And last but certainly not least was the mouthwatering dessert: a strawberry tiramisù that was the perfect sweet ending to an unforgettable meal.
Pallotte Cacio e Ova Abruzzesi
The After Dinner
Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end, and this was no exception. With our bellies happily stuffed with Valeria’s incredible culinary creations, we lingered a while longer, letting our food settle. We sipped more wine, swapped stories, snapped some fun photos, and soaked up the wonderful company. It was the perfect ending to an unforgettable evening!
FAQs
Below are some commonly asked questions regarding EatWith.
In Which Countries Is Eatwith Available?
EatWith is available in 130 countries.
How Long Do The Experiences Last?
This all depends on what you booked. Dinners last 2-3 hours. The timeframe for each experience is mentioned on the website.
Can I Become A Host?
Absolutely! It’s free to sign up for. If you love to cook and are willing to open up your home to strangers, this may be the case for you.
Conclusion
In conclusion, dinner with a local Italian offers a unique experience beyond just enjoying a meal. It’s about immersing yourself in the heart of Italian culture, making new connections, and creating unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a foodie, a traveler, or someone looking to experience Italy more profoundly and authentically, this is an experience you don’t want to miss. So next time you’re in Italy, reserve your spot for a dinner with a local Italian – your taste buds and heart will thank you.
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