Business may be discussed at a breakfast meeting, but it is not common. Cocktails are not common in Italy. Drinking without eating is rare. Hard drinking is unusual and not appreciated. Even mild intoxication is considered ill-mannered.
Women drink very little in Italy.
At formal occasions, women generally do not propose toasts. Italians do not use bread plates. Break bread and place it next to your plate on the table. Ask for your check when you are finished eating. It may not be brought to you until you ask.