Living in Rome: 6 Surprising Secrets About Grocery Shopping in Italy

One of the first things that threw me off was the sheer scale of Italian grocery stores. Unlike the sprawling American supermarkets with aisles upon aisles of endless product options, many Italian stores felt more intimate and specialized. Instead of huge freezer sections, you’ll find fresh breads and a vibrant selection of local produce taking center stage. Italian shoppers tend to frequent smaller, neighborhood markets rather than mega-stores, which creates a unique, community-driven vibe to the whole experience.

Payment methods were another curveball. Cash is king in many Italian grocery stores, even more so than in many parts of the U.S. While cards are accepted, I often found myself needing to carry euros for minor purchases, especially at delis or produce stands. Plus, store layouts can be surprisingly minimalistic – meaning self-checkout machines are rare and many places still rely on…