The Italian Dining Tradition That Could Inspire A Backyard Change

After returning home from a vacation in a foreign country, it's not unusual to miss some of the little cultural idiosyncrasies that you enjoyed in a new place abroad. You might even pine for those local traditions so much that you'll want to attempt to replicate them when you get back to the U.S. What's one tradition from abroad that we'd love to bring to our own backyards? Al fresco dining, an essential aspect many people love best about Italy, one of the Mediterranean capitals of cuisine.

Al fresco, which literally translates to "in the fresh" in Italian, describes eating outside in the cool open air. Outdoor dining holds a special place in Italian culture and remains beloved by many — so beloved, in fact, that some Italian cities such as Florence have had to prohibit outdoor seating in certain areas because all those tables, chairs, and umbrellas were clogging up narrow streets and squares! But you don't need to book a ticket to the Eternal City or venture to the rolling hills of Tuscany to relish some al fresco dining. You can easily make it a part of your everyday dining routine with a few simple additions that will help transform your backyard into a Mediterranean retreat — like a table and chairs, one or two romantic touches, and some weather-ready gear.

Today, al fresco dining is popular not only in Italy but all over Europe, especially in countries with warmer weather, such as Spain and France. But people worldwide came to appreciate the custom even more during the COVID-19 pandemic, when outdoor dining became a preferred way to enjoy a meal. That's because socializing outside in the open air is a healthier way to get together with friends and family, with airborne viruses much less likely to spread than they do indoors.

What's more, being outdoors and regularly eating outside (especially with people you love) may reduce stress and inflammation levels — which contributes to a lower risk of certain diseases and chronic conditions such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol. And when you're sitting down for a meal, doing so in nature may even help you make healthier food choices. Perhaps most enjoyable of all, away from indoor distractions like your television, computer, and the clutter of everyday life, al fresco dining can help foster better connections to nature — and to your dining companions.

You don't need to completely overhaul your backyard to get a little taste of Italian al fresco dining. Simply find an outdoor dining set, patio furniture, or bistro-style table and chairs that fits your own preferred aesthetic. And don't stress if you don't have a huge backyard or lots of space to play with. Even small, peaceful seating spaces in your garden are enough to acquire the al fresco experience. Or, if all you have is a back porch or a small terrace off your apartment, that could still be plenty of room to squeeze in a tiny table and chairs.

While you may not be able to replicate the Italian countryside's picturesque beauty, you can add a touch of the natural beauty that makes al fresco dining so special by personalizing your space with flowers or plants — perhaps incorporating potted herbs that double as fresh, readily-available ingredients or garnishes. Then, add some ambiance with romantic yet budget-friendly patio lighting, such as string lights, lanterns, or traditional tabletop candlelights.

And finally, don't forget to be prepared for any and all weather! One aspect we love about al fresco dining that's common in Italy as well as many other European countries is the penchant for enjoying eating outdoors even when it isn't sunny and a perfect 75 degrees. In Italy, even ski resorts are equipped for enjoying a glass of prosecco al fresco. So, try investing in some heat lamps or Amazon's highly rated firepit table, have some throw blankets ready for when it gets chilly, or install a large patio umbrella that will handle a light drizzle. That way, you can still soak up the pleasures of an al fresco meal no matter what the weather is like!