Samuel Ghelli
Mangiare in testa a qualcuno: When Superiority Comes with Table Service
In Italian, even an absurd place to eat can make perfect sense.
Cercare il pelo nell’uovo: To Look for a Hair in the Egg
An Italian expression that speaks to those who actively scrutinize, seeking imperfections and non-existent faults.
Mangia, mangia!: When “Eat, Eat” Stops Being About Food
In America, a familiar Italian expression invites you to enjoy a meal. In Italy, it can also accuse people of taking too much.
Mangiarsi le mani: The Italian Expression for Regret
English speakers kick themselves over a missed opportunity. Italians turn themselves into the meal.
What an Italian Proverb About Cake Teaches Us About Imperfection
Not everything turns out as planned. Italians have a proverb for that, and it comes with pastry.
Avere sale in zucca: When Common Sense Needs Seasoning
Italians know that an empty head can sometimes be improved with the right condiment.
Avere le mani in pasta: When Italians Get Involved
English puts a finger in every pie. Italian puts both hands into the dough.
Carne da macello: When Italians Turn People into Meat
Italian gives human expendability a distinctly culinary form.
Why Bigger Isn’t Always Better in Italy
In Italy, the true measure of value may be found in the cellar.
Fare il Pesce in Barile: When Italians Play the Fish in a Barrel
Some forms of indecision are less innocent than they look—and Italian has the perfect food for them.
