L’Aquila: Feasting for Two with 19 Euro!

Cafeteria eating elsewhere might not be too tempting, but try a good one in Italy and you’ll be in for suprises. Including the price: our early February lunch for two at a L’Aquila “self-service” (Italians use the English term) was 19 Euro, wine included!

In early February in L’Aquila, Pino had meetings about reconstruction work up until 2 pm: too late for lunch in a trattoria or ristorante but people were still in line in the “self-service” (as they’re called here) in the shopping mall.

While waiting for Pino, I’d worked on my computer in the adjoining cafe’ there; at 1 30, I was ready for a nibble. I picked up a tray, a silverware packet and joined the self-service food line, choosing a tasty array of vegetables. I ordered half a glass of vino bianco at the cafe’ bar adjacent. A delectable aperitivo.

I could verify the goodness to Pino when he arrived. We decided to eat there, getting in line.

And the signora in line before me assured us with a smile, “qui si mangia benissimo!” Pino passed up the primi, opting for veal cutlette (light and tender) and vegetables but I had to try their gnocchi al ragu. Buonissimi. And second time around for vegetables, too: others to savor!

Lasagne and chick pea soup (“pasta e ceci”) were other first course choices and pork roast and a simmering stew were additional secondi.

Menus vary daily and the adjacent dining room where you head with your food tray was fillled, many working people eating here daily; after all, the price is right.