by Janet Farricelli CPDT-KA

Created on: May 27, 2009

A great Italian restaurant must be able to transport you into the ambiance of Italy. You want to almost feel like a tourist visiting a little piece of Italy without paying for expensive tickets or spending several hours on a flight. In order to feel this way, the restaurant must strategically play on all your senses offering an atmosphere that will make this place extra special. This is accomplished by creating a special ambiance by using sights, smells, flavors and sounds that will transport you to Venice, Rome and Florence all in one setting.

It all starts upon entering the restaurant. Your ears want to hear typical Italian music, vivacious mandolins or soul touching music like Bocelli or Pavarotti. The music will assure you are at an Italian restaurant and not in an all American Steak House or Chinese Buffet. Music plays a major role in restaurants: it provides relaxation and a soothing background to make the evening special.

The general atmosphere is of vital importance. The first impression is the most important. You want to feel welcomed, comfortable and cozy. Warm earthy colors work pretty well and the lighting as well must be warm and a little bit on the subdued side promising intimacy and comfort.

Decor is fundamental. Italian restaurants often offer interesting conversation pieces such as antique paintings featuring old markets or scenic oil paintings featuring ancient villas or views from Tuscany. A cracking fireplace is often strategically featured in the center of the room offering further cues of comfort.

Waiters and waitresses must be well groomed and in neat attire. A courteous attitude is a must. A good Italian restaurant server must be knowledgeable about food and wine combinations and must be able to pronounce the names of Italian dishes well. Smiles and a positive attitude will be well welcomed by the guests.

Of course the center piece of a good Italian restaurant is the food. Upon entering, guests must be greeted by the heavenily smells of baked bread, baked lasagna and all the other great Italian goodies. Menus must have a good array of choices, including some dishes for vegeterians. The wine list should offer good the finest choices.

Food must be abundant. Italians are generous in their portions. Those who have visited Italy are well aware of how many courses are served at an Italian meal. There should be antipasto, firsts, seconds, side dishes, desserts and coffee. Tiramisu' is a dessert that shuold be present on all the Italian restaurant dessert menus. Almost everybody loves this decadent dessert.

Guests will enjoy their stay and look forward to come back. It is once the guest has left that they realize how significant their dining experience was, after collecting all their emotions and feelings spent in the restaurant. The success rate of a restaurant is ultimately measured by guests coming back over and over. The need for reservations often is a good sign depicting an excellent restaurant that strives to do its best.

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