Cappuccino, a coffee derivative, is the drink of choice for Americans

Imagine ordering an authentic Neapolitan pizza and receiving a cappuccino on the side. It seems absurd, right? Yet, for some foreign tourists, this combination is not so unusual. Luca D'orzi, Maître of the renowned Senses Restaurant at Palazzo Montemartini, a Radisson Collection Rome, reveals the bizarre requests of an international public that often upset Italian culinary traditions.

Deep-rooted traditions and demanding palates
“Americans love cappuccino ,” D’orzi says with a sympathetic smile. “They want it with pizza, with pasta, even with meat!” This preference for frothed milk and espresso may seem harmless, but for Italians it represents culinary heresy.

According to D'orzi, it's not just Americans who commit these gastronomic “sins.”

“We have guests from all over the world, each with their own habits and preferences. It is a constant challenge for us to adapt to their requests, while keeping our culinary traditions intact.”
Luca D'orzi – Maître of Palazzo Montemartini, a Radisson Collection Rome

A meeting of cultures at the table
Despite the apparent oddities, D’orzi embraces these cultural differences with admirable openness. “Every dish, every pairing, tells a unique story,” he explains. “It’s an opportunity to learn and appreciate different culinary perspectives.”

Whether it’s a cappuccino with pizza or an even more bizarre request, Senses Restaurant is committed to satisfying the needs of its guests, always maintaining a deep respect for Italian traditions.

Towards a future of culinary openness
As culinary customs continue to evolve and merge, it is clear that open-mindedness and mutual respect will be key to preserving the authenticity of each culture's culinary traditions. Perhaps, one day, cappuccino and pizza will become an accepted new trend, or perhaps it will remain an eccentricity for the more adventurous palate. Either way, the meeting of cultures at the table promises to enrich the culinary experience for all of us.