Moving beyond the recognized tourist areas of Rome, Naples, and Sicily, the consumption of pizza in Italy takes on a myriad of forms, each with its own set of dining etiquette. This exploration delves into how Italians commonly enjoy pizza with or without dining utensils, depending on the setting and personal preference.
Dining Etiquette in a Traditional Pizzeria (Pizza al Piatto)
When dining at a traditional pizzeria in an Italian city, the choice to eat pizza al piatto (on a plate) offers a unique experience. In such establishments, a fork and knife are essential for cutting the pizza into manageable bites. It's important to note that attempting to bite into a whole pizza, especially a piping hot one, can be quite awkward. Thus, many opt for the more refined method of cutting slices and eating them properly with utensils.
However, the decision to eat with a fork and knife isn't always about propriety. It can also be influenced by the company you keep. In a setting like a date, one might go the extra mile to seem polite and take individual bites from smaller pieces. Conversely, in more casual settings such as with friends or family, using one's hands to pick up slices is perfectly acceptable and often seen as part of the enjoyment of the meal.
Personal Preferences and Pizza Buying Practices
As an Italian, I have observed that the choice to eat pizza with a fork and knife primarily depends on the temperature and manageability of the slice. When the tip of the slice is too hot to handle, a fork and knife are necessary. Similarly, choosing single slices ensures a variety of toppings, with one slice featuring vegetables for a nutritional boost and others tailored for flavor indulgence. In such cases, the practice often involves buying from pizza parlors that offer slices rather than whole pies, or even pre- ordering a tray of slices.
The Role of Cutlery in a Pizzeria Setting
At a formal pizzeria, cutlery is typically provided. However, the facility may also offer the option to have the pizza sliced. Locals often prefer cutting their own slices to maintain freshness and control over the slicing style. Despite this, one will find both methods utilized, as Italian pizzerias do not always enforce strict dining etiquette. Some diners might use a knife to cut wedges, while others will meticulously slice and use a fork.
Pizza as Street Food
When pizza is served as street food, the experience changes dramatically. In this setting, there is no cutlery provided. Pizza is often pre- folded in a manner akin to a portafoglio (clutch) to make it easier to hold and eat. This practice mirrors the approach used during tourism, where street vendors typically serve the pizza in this portable manner.
The Uniqueness of Neapolitan Pizza
The Neapolitan pizza is particularly interesting as it is quite different from the more common styles. Unlike crispier pizzas, Neapolitan pizza is soft and tender, with a distinctive border called the cornicione. This feature allows for a unique eating method; once the slice is bent over, it's ready to be eaten directly from the hand, eliminating the need for forks or knives. This approach to consumption is not limited to Naples but can be found in pizza stalls across Italy, as it is a respected and cherished method of enjoying this beloved dish.
Drumming up the most delicious experience, eating a crispy pizza with hands can be a delightful alternative despite the fork and knife being the common choice. However, in any case, the true essence of Italian pizza lies in its ability to be enjoyed with or without utensils, making it a versatile and joyous culinary tradition.
Conclusion
The flexibility in dining manners in Italy showcases the adaptability and practicality of pizza consumption. Whether it's a refined slice al piatto or the convenience of street food, the joy of eating pizza remains the primary focus. Understanding these nuances can enhance the dining experience both for locals and tourists alike, making pizza consumption a delightful and versatile experience.