What do Italians Eat for Lunch?

Weekday lunches for Italians often consist of a "tavola calda" or takeout sandwich. The full-course lunches are something that Italians enjoy on the weekends and on special occasions.

Italian culture includes eating out frequently. Italians will have a variety of dishes for lunch, depending on the city. For instance, the takeout options available in Naples differ from those in Rome. Every city will have different pizzas and sandwiches that you may order at a bar or eat on the street.

Italians love their tavola calda, or "hot table," during lunch. In general, it is fast, affordable, and healthful. The pasta, meat, seafood, side dishes, and other meals are prepared in the morning and then put out for lunch in a glass-enclosed showcase.

Italians occasionally eat the lengthy, multi-course lunches. These lengthy meals include more food than most people are accustomed to eating and last at least two hours. Italians will prepare these to mark important occasions, but many families also host big Sunday dinners. The meals consist of an appetizer, a pasta course, a main course of meat or fish with side dishes and dessert.