It's nothing like I was used to seeing in the US.

There were sections labeled "Primi Piatti" and "Secondi Piatti", and I couldn't figure out which one was the main course.

Initially I thought "Primi Piatti" was simply the version of the appetizer, but as I raced through the menu items in this section, they all seemed quite substantial, so maybe that wasn't the case.

So, I decided to do some research, and here's what I found. In traditional Italian dining, the "Secondi Piatti", the second courses, are the true main course of the meal.

The "Primi Piatti", while hearty and satisfying, are more of a warm-up.

Think of "Primi Piatti" as carb-rich dishes, like pasta, risotto, or soup, that come after the antipasto, aka what Italians call the starter. "Primi Piatti" are designed to satisfy without being overly heavy, preparing you for "Secondi Piatti", aka the second course, aka actual main course. The "Secondi Piatti", on the other hand, are where the spotlight truly shines.

This course is focused on protein, featuring dishes like a tender ossobucco, a slow-braised veal shank in a rich sauce, or Bistecca alla Follentina, I'm pretty much sure I butchered the name, which is a thick-cut T-bone steak, cooked to perfection.

If you are in the mood for seafood, you might find something like a Branzino Affrono, again butchery, sorry, a whole roasted sea bass seasoned with fresh herb, or Crispy Fritto Misto, a delightful mix of lightly fried seafood and vegetables. These dishes are often paired with simple contouring names, C-O-N-T-O-R-I-N-I, which are Italian side dishes that complement the main course.

Common examples include roasted vegetables or a light salad, which are typically ordered separately to enhance the overall meal experience. The distinction between "primi" and "secondi" reflects the structure and philosophy of Italian dining.

The "primi" offers variety and warmth, filling but not overwhelming, while the "secondi" is the centerpiece of the meal, meant to be savored slowly and enjoyed in good company, often alongside a glass of wine.

While traditionally it's encouraged to enjoy both courses sequentially, it's perfectly common for modern diners to choose just one based on their appetite or mood.

This structure is deeply rooted in Italian culture, emphasizing balanced enjoyment and respect for food as an experience, rather than mere substance.

So while the "primi" might feel substantial, it's the "secondi piatti" that is considered a highlight of the meal.