There is often so much more to a meal than we give it credit for. Nowadays, many meals are rushed, packaged, and microwaved. Too often, eating is a means to end our hunger instead of truly nourishing our bodies and connecting with one another. Sharing a meal in Italian culture has remained intentional and purposeful with an emphasis on tradition and authentic flavor. Italian restaurants continue to exemplify this convergence of food and family. Here is a guide to why adopting Italian principles in your family dinners may improve your relationships. 

Cultural Intersection of Food and Family 

The Italian way of eating is ritualistic in nature. A traditional Italian dinner is held on a Sunday, and everyone in the family gathers to eat multiple courses. The meal served is just as nourishing as the interactions that take place at the table. 

The ingredients in Italian cuisine have a rich history. The entire purpose of breaking bread with one another is to relish fresh flavors, be present for the experience, and enjoy the company you are with. This tradition is meant to be experienced intentionally, deliberately, and without haste, which is why you may notice that there is a slight delay in when the check is dropped after the last course at an Italian restaurant. 

Why Italian Food is Great For Families 

Beyond the deeply connective ritual of eating together, Italian food is great for families because of the way it is traditionally served. Traditionally, Italian food is served family-style on platters that everyone passes and shares. Almost all recipes in Italian culture include olive oil, herbs, spices, grains and vegetables, which make them highly nutritious offerings. The combination of a family-style method of serving Italian cuisine, as well as a diversity of choices for a variety of palettes, is designed to cultivate an atmosphere of generosity, warmth, and intentionality among friends and family.

Italy is known for its incredible cuisine, but you don't have to hop on a plane to enjoy its robust flavors and recipes. Capriccio Ristorante in Pembroke Pines, FL is a little slice of "Bel Paese", which translates to "beautiful country" in Italian. Since 1987, this five-star Italian restaurant has been dedicated to serving only authentic Italian favorites paired with live entertainment and first-class service. With auxiliary spaces for private meals and banquets, Capriccio Ristorante is the perfect place to celebrate with the ones you love. To make a reservation, call (954) 432-7001 or visit them online to peruse their full menu.