What Dining Etiquette Should You Expect?

Italian fine dining is polished but relaxed; service is attentive without hovering.

Menus often follow antipasto–primo–secondo–dolce, but sharing is acceptable if you signal politely. Bread may come with a "coperto" charge; olive oil and balsamic requests vary by region.

Ask for the check ("il conto, per favore") when ready—servers don't rush you. Dress codes: smart casual to elegant; jackets are appreciated at top venues in Milan and Rome.

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