Are you out of inspiration for lunch or dinner; would like to try something new but not sure what? Then why not have a shot at some Italian restaurants. If you think that Italian food is only spaghetti and lasagna, well you are in for a surprise! Of course pastas are a part of their regime, but there is much more to it!

The different regions of Italy were unified in 1861. The Italian food was then influenced by many factors: the different regions of Italy as well as by Greek, Arab, Roman and Norman cultures. Today's Italian restaurants reflect mostly either the southern or northern part of the country.

To this date, the primary influences in this culture's diet are its southern and northern parts. While the south will cook with dried pasta, olive oil, mozzarella from buffalo milk and lots of tomatoes, the north will prefer butter, risotto, Mascarpone cheese and fresh egg pasta.

Italian restaurants conventional menus are made of five different elements. Meals start with the antipasto, which is considered the appetizer. It can be hot or cold, such as a caper salad (fresh mozzarella and basil on a ripe tomato), breaded calamari (squid rings, fried), stuffed olives or baked artichoke hearts.

The next meal would be the primo. This is the first of two main courses in Italian cuisine. This course regularly is a warm dish, like risotto, pasta or soup. The second of those two main courses, the Secondo, is one of meat. So there are no vegetarian options for this one. Authentic Italian cuisine prefers the veal, but since the Second World War, beef has become exponentially popular and more affordable.

The side dish is called the Contorno, which is pretty much what you would imagine, some vegetables or a salad. And last but not least is the Dolce, which as you probably guessed it is the dessert. The most delectable way to finish a meal!

These establishments all have their individual versions of this menu. Of course, different regions of the United States have personalized local foods, and Italy is the same, so there is always something to look forward too.

Restaurants reviews or guides can give you some assistance in picking one that will suit you. You can now find great Italian restaurants to fit your tastes and your budget. A place for a family gathering that you will all enjoy!