Italian dishes like pasta and salad on a restaurant table
FOOD NEWS
Why Reservations Are So Crucial When Exploring Restaurants In Italy
BY AUTUMN SWIERS
In Italy, dinnertime is a leisurely social event, and restaurants aren't keen on pushing customers out quickly. Many eateries are small, which limits the number of available seats.
If a restaurant is full when you show up, you’re out of luck. If you want a table between 8:30 to 10:30 PM, the time slot of the Italian dinner rush, a reservation is crucial.
In a touristy area, you’ll likely be able to get a table a day early or the same day. At restaurants popular with locals, you might need to book weeks or months in advance.
It's perfectly fine to eat at whichever places you come across, but if there are specific restaurants in Italy you really want to visit, make sure to book them in advance.