There’s something magical about the way Italians embrace the art of dining. More than the amazing food, there’s also this warm, easy, zest for life they infuse into every occasion. And if you’re looking for how to capture that magic and host an unforgettable Italian Dinner Party; here’s a few secrets you need to know to make it truly authentic!
Greeting Guests
Physical contact is a big part of Italian culture. It shows closeness, warmth and affection.
So it’s totally normal to greet guests with a kiss on each cheek, regardless of gender. (Actually, come to think of it – Italians greet everyone like this.) Why not adopt this gesture yourself and set the tone for a night filled with a taste of Italian warmth and connection?
Italian Dinner Parties start late
Italians are known for their laid-back approach to life, and dinner parties are no exception. Like many other European countries – dinner is served later in the evening, usually around 8 PM (or even later.) This allows everyone time to relax, socialize, and enjoy a leisurely aperitivo before the actual meal.
Table Decorations
No need for anything extravagant or overly fussy. Your Italian dinner party table should be more laid-back, use natural elements and not be overly matchy matchy. Oh and don’t be afraid of adding a splash of colour. Use fresh fruit & greens or simple flowers as decorations. The idea is to let the food and company take center stage.
Alfresco Dining
If the weather permits, consider hosting your dinner party outdoors. Alfresco dining is quintessentially Italian and provides a charming backdrop for a memorable evening. And in my experience, when you take the party outdoors, people tend to linger longer and the party takes on a less formal air. Check out this post for tips on outdoor entertaining.
Start with an Aperativo and Antipasti
Start the evening with an aperativo – a pre-dinner drink like Aperol Spritz or Negroni or perhaps a Prosecco cocktail– paired with a selection of antipasti. Antipasti are delightful appetizers featuring cured meats, cheeses, olives, bruschettas, crostini and marinated vegetables.
Keep it Simple, Fresh, and Delicious
Italian cuisine celebrates the simplicity and freshness of seasonal ingredients. And you don’t have to serve a 7 course meal with all the fixins’! Traditional Italian dinners typically consist of antipasti, main dish (like pasta), meat dish (like grilled fish or roast chicken), salad and simple dessert.
Rustic & Family Style Dining
Family-style dining is at the heart of Italian gatherings. So instead of buffet or served plated portions, consider putting the main courses and side dishes in the center of the table for guests to share and pass around.
Wine
Wine is an integral part of Italian dining culture and they take it seriously, so if you’re hosting an Italian dinner party…you better have wine. Surprise your guests with something special and do a little research to provide guests with food and wine pairings that are delicious. E.g. The Wine Enthusiast has a great wine and pasta pairing cheat sheet
Serve Salad like an Italian
While North Americans eat salad at the beginning of the meal, Italians (like many other Europeans) serve salad at the end (after the main course). The salad course acts as a refreshing and light finish to the meal before dessert.
Don’t Forget Dessert!
No Italian dinner party is complete without a delightful dessert. Typically, Italian desserts involve serving seasonal fruits or sweets like tiramisu, gelato, granita or a simple fruit tart.
Joyful Hostess Tip: Serving gelato in a beautiful martini or coupe glass makes for a crowd pleasing, easy dessert!
End the Meal with a Digestivo
A “digestivo” is an alcoholic drink served at the end of a meal to help with digestion. The name literally means “digestive.” It’s usually an herbal or citrus flavoured liqueur that everyone enjoys while relaxing after dinner. For your next dinner party try serving a digestivo like Sambuca (which has a black licorice flavour), or limoncello (which is made from lemons)
Add a few Italian catch phrases
Before everyone starts eating, don’t forget to say “Buon Appetito!” to wish your guests a “good appetite and good meal”
When it’s time to raise a glass, use the Italian word “Salute!” This is a toast that means ” to good health, well-being, and happiness.” Fun fact: Italians consider it bad luck to toast with just water in your glass. The superstition believes that it will lead you to a “watery grave.”
What to Wear
A fun (and chic) way to fully embrace the Italian dinner party theme is to dress like one! My good friend and AMAZING stylist, Mena from Style Me Mena shares simple, everyday tips for “how to dress like an Italian ” in this article.
Now that you know the secrets – you’re ready to host your next dinner party like a true Italian and start living “la dolce vita!
Buon Appetito and Salute!
