Italian Restaurant Don'ts: Why You Should Never Order Pineapple Pizza

Planning a trip to Italy? If you don’t want to be remembered as "Tourist of the Year", there are a few things you probably shouldn’t order.

Italy – the land of romance, opera, Vespas… and sacred pizza. If you think you can order pineapple pizza in a small trattoria in Naples and walk away unnoticed, think again. I tried. And yes, I'm still a little embarrassed. The waiter smiled kindly, yet painfully, and said: “Qui facciamo la pizza vera.” (Here we make real pizza.)

Can I order pineapple pizza in Italy?

You can… but you really shouldn’t. Even if it shows up on a menu as a joke, it'll probably cost more than five classic pizzas. Why? Because pizza con ananas (pineapple pizza) is borderline offensive to most Italians. In Naples, I once asked about it — the waiter raised an eyebrow and said, “Signorina, questa non è l’America.” (Miss, this is not America.) In short: real Italian pizza does not come with pineapple.

Is it wrong to put parmesan on seafood pasta?

Yes — very wrong. In Italy, you never put cheese on dishes with clams, mussels, octopus, or tuna. It’s a culinary taboo. Parmesan and seafood do not mix. Ever.

Can I drink cappuccino in the evening?

No, grazie! Cappuccino is a morning drink, usually before 11 AM. After that, it’s espresso only. The waiter might serve you — but they won’t forget you.

Can I order spaghetti with meatballs in Italy?

Nope. That’s a Hollywood creation. Spaghetti con polpette doesn’t exist in traditional Italian menus. Meatballs are usually served separately as a second course.

Can I order chicken pasta?

Forget it. “Chicken Alfredo” is a myth outside of Italy. Locals might just stare at you in silence if you ask for it.

What about garlic sauce with pizza?

That’s another big no. In Italy, pizza is served complete — no dipping sauces needed. Garlic sauce or ketchup? Just... don't.

Can I get coffee “to go” in a paper cup?

Italians drink coffee quickly at the bar — al banco. Paper cups are rare, even in Starbucks. Want to blend in? Sip it like a local.

What should I order instead?

• Pizza Margherita – classic: tomatoes, mozzarella, basil
• Pizza Diavola – spicy and delicious
• Pasta alla Carbonara – egg, guanciale, Pecorino. No cream!
• Cacio e Pepe – simple, peppery, Roman perfection
• Tiramisù – a soulful Italian dessert

Final thoughts from experience:

If you want to eat like a local, skip the pineapple pizza. Ask your waiter for a recommendation, smile, and trust the tradition. Italy isn’t just a destination — it’s a lifestyle of flavor, style, and passion. And yes — always say “Buon appetito!”, never “Enjoy your meal.”