The typical family dinner is still a tradition throughout Italy. Lighter than lunch, dinner will usually consist of a pasta dish and at least two vegetables. Meat is usually only a main course at a holiday dinner. Fish is more commonly served than meat. Wine is typically served as the evening beverage along with a large pitcher or bottle of water on the table.
Fruit is the dessert.
If a richer dessert is desired, portions are very tiny. A small canoli, a third of the size as those found in America, is typical as is a thin slice of a fruit tart. Tarts are sold in pastry shops by the single serving. Although tap water is very drinkable and full of calcium, bottled water is most often consumed. Many Italians would never consider drinking anything other than bottled water with the choices being natural or sparkling.