Americans have enjoyed Italian food for over a hundred years, thanks to immigrants that brought recipes with them from their native land. Spaghetti sauce, for example, has been so thoroughly adopted by the American palate that it appears, not just in Italian restaurants, but bars, grills and everything in between. The last few years, however, have seen the rise of the “foodie,” someone looking to explore traditional dishes in exciting new ways, resulting in several trends in Italian food.
Splurging on a good meal. For the past several years, Americans ate out sparingly, choosing to eat at home to save money. As the economy recovers and the recession wanes, people are more willing to spend. After years of forced frugality, people are opening their wallets to upscale restaurants for special occasions, recognizing that a good meal is worth it.
Locally-owned restaurants. It’s no secret that chain restaurants are struggling to stay relevant to today’s modern consumer. A “foodie” is far more likely to be impressed by quality of ingredients and years in the business than the number of locations. Christini’s, for example, uses extra virgin olive oil from Greece and has wowed guests for almost thirty years.
Authenticity. Anyone can boil water for noodles and dump a jar of spaghetti sauce on top. People are beginning to look beyond familiar Italian-American food to enjoy bona fide Italian fare, like Christini’s Ossobuco, Carpaccio or “true interpretation” Fettuccini Alfredo (made by simply tossing Parmesan cheese with butter, without the need for cream or a thickener).
Emergence of non-traditional items. Everyone is familiar with tiramisu and cannolis, but not many have tried Tartufo or Zabaglione. Both tasty after-dinner treats available at Christini’s, Tartufo is comprised of ice cream with fruit in the middle, while Zabaglione is a light custard. For the adventurous eater, being able to savor a new experience is a delight all its own.
Simple, quality food. Gone are the days when restaurants offered pages of entrees to cater to each customer’s possible whim. Guests now expect fewer choices but higher quality. In this arena, Christini’s really shines, winning everything from the AAA Four Diamond Award to the Nation’s Restaurant News Fine Dining Hall of Fame Award.
For superb service in a relaxed atmosphere and outstanding food no matter the trend, visit the best restaurant in Orlando, Christini’s Italian Ristorante. Call us at to make reservations today.