Foodie In Florence: Food is Fun and Far-Reaching!

We all know what food is. I'm sure our first thoughts are that food is either a plant or animal and we use it to keep our bodies going. This is certainly true, but after being here in Florence for almost four weeks I can assure you that there is quite a bit more to it than that. 

Food in Florence is so much FUN! Food in Italy is certainly a genuine source of pleasure. Meals here are composed of an antipasto (appetizer), a primo (first course-usually pasta), a secondo (main course-meat or fish), the contorno (veggie side dish) and lastly, dolce (desert). The idea is that a table will order a couple of items for each course and it is shared among the entire party. The conversations, passing of plates, and lengthy meals create an intimate setting. Dinner is a sanctuary to our senses and is to be savored. 

Also, what could be more fun than eating gelato at any hour of the day? Italians enjoy themselves by enjoying food and food with others. 

Food here is also FAR-REACHING. It can be viewed as a nutritional aspect to our daily lives, but takes on other roles as well. It can be a social outlet and part of a cultures identity. Florence is rich with food culture. Italy has withstood the test of time and has held on to their food identity. From the small scale farms in Tuscany to the classic Italian dishes, quality wines, breads, cheeses and deserts, this culture refuses to be forgotten. 

I enjoy the Italian cuisine but adore the way in which they appreciate it. Italians take the time to nourish themselves, please themselves, and connect themselves to others all over a cappuccino. This relationship to food needs not to remain here but back in Clinton as well! Meet a friend for coffee at Malones, give yourself a real lunch break, and have a leisurely dinner with loved ones (One that takes more than 30 minutes).

Italians believe that they deserve a break, not that they've earned one. I think we deserve one too!

Buon Appetito!