The Difference between Italian Bars and Other Kinds of Pubs
Ales, beers on tap, cocktails and a decent wine if you’re lucky are some of the things you expect to find in your local tavern. Italians, on the other hand, do things a little differently. Their pubs are more like sandwich shops, coffee shops or restaurants that have liquor licenses.
Such joints also sell a variety of things ranging from cigarettes to ice cream. They also feature highly talented baristas that serve the best coffee you could ever hope to tastes. Here are a few types of Italian pubs:
Osteria
Osterias are very similar to trattorias (family restaurants). However, the prices are lower, and they have a more relaxed and informal interior design and vibe. Osterias are more like wine shops that also have bars in them.
Here you get to sample wines paired with cheese. You also get to sit at the bar and have some drinks with your friends. There are also neighbourhood osterias, which don’t primarily serve wine but local foods at affordable prices. Such Osterias are not that common outside Italy.
Taverna
These are more like English pubs with an Italian twist. First, they serve wine instead of beer and hard liquor. They also serve affordable meals that are tastier than anything you could hope to taste at your local pub.
Tavernas only operate during the evenings and late into the night. Although Some even stay open until dusk. They also feature live entertainment from local artists or have a jukebox.
Enotecas
Traditionally, Enotecas were establishments where you could go sample and by the best local wines. These days, they are more like bars that serve wine. You can take your friends to such joints to sample from a well-curated list of wines.
They also offer small bitings like cured meats, cheeses, nuts and other snacks. Some even have sandwich shops and baristas to make a delicious cup of espresso for that extra kick as you leave.