The Perfect Italian Kiss — And Other Secrets about Italian Manners
Five steps to creating the perfect Valentine’s date – start with a perfect Italian Kiss
1. Forget handshakes
In Italy, a kiss on both cheeks is the currency of genuine connection. Yet, it might take a bit of practice for those just getting started. When you dive into the world of cheek-to-cheek contact, you’ll find that the perfect Italian kiss is not just a greeting but a cultural embrace that speaks to the country’s good-natured hospitality. This is not just an ordinary peck; it’s a special moment where cheeks meet for a brief unique union. The secret lies not just in the embrace but in the timing – it’s an artful pause that transforms a greeting into a movie moment. PRO TIP: Start by touching left cheeks and follow by touching right checks, lips never touch cheeks.
2. Pasta Politics
Italian manners extend well to the culinary realm, and nothing embodies this more than the unspoken rules of pasta politics. The magic happens not just with twirling spaghetti on a fork, but with the knowledge that spaghetti should never be cut. These small compliances nod to tradition. Every gesture pays homage to centuries of culinary savoir-faire that you could be a part of. Make sure that you check out all of Pasta Press’s spectacular spaghetti dishes and ask our staff for a pasta-twirling performance.
3. Gestures with Gusto
When it comes to expressing themselves, Italians elevate gestures to something more than a flick-of-the-wrist. In Italy, communication extends beyond words, body language is key! Here, every tilt of the head, or raise of the eyebrows tells a story. In fact, if you aren’t reading the gestures you are definitely missing the punchline. Italians proudly use their hands to punctuate conversations with a flair that’s nothing short of operatic. Whether it’s the iconic pinched fingers or a nonchalant shrug, these gestures are the secret language of Italian manners, adding a dash of drama to everyday interactions.
4. Dolce Vita is Dining
Dining in Italy is more than a meal; it’s a celebration of the dolce vita. The nuances of table manners reflect one’s profound respect for the food and the company. From the careful selection of the right utensil to the proper silence during the first bite, every movement is a symbol of unity and community. Savor each bite and never, under any circumstance, hand someone your money without a middle-man dish. These protocols are the notes of sophistication where culinary tradition meets the modern world.
5. Eye Contact or the Tango
In Italian manners, eye contact is the tango – intense and deliberate. It’s not about locking eyes for the sake of it, it’s a reaching of the olive branch that conveys sincerity, trust, and a genuine connection. In Italy, eye contact is the subtle yet potent ingredient that flavors every social interaction. Don’t shy away! Do your part to show you are intentionally absorbing the moment.
As we unravel the secrets of Italian manners, from the perfect cheek-kiss to the nuances of pasta politics, we discover a culture that cherishes tradition while embracing the modern world with open arms. Italy’s social etiquette is a balance of respect, passion, and a dash of charm that leaves a mark on those who take a chance. So, here’s to savoring the perfect Italian kiss and relishing the habits that have made Italy’s manners a cultural feast for the senses. Salute!