It is also customary for the restaurant staff to enjoy their dinner together before opening to the public. You can walk by a restaurant and see people laughing and enjoying a meal from 5PM to 8PM but don't be fooled into thinking the restaurant is open. These people are the staff. Italians rarely snack in between meals or eat while walking or driving. Our language teacher told us that whenever she sees someone with a beverage or food while walking, she knows this person is a foreigner.
Olive oil is a very important ingredient in the Italian cuisine.
They use the oil on everything and each type of oil has a different purpose. For instance, Italy has an extra vinegar olive oil used on salads and vegetables. Then there is medium oil used to cook with, and low quality oil used for deep-frying. The oil you use can determine the success of your meal. I am including recipes for a typical Italian dish and one of their fantastic desserts.