Eating on the go in Italy: between cibo di strada and street food

Abstract

This article provides an initial assessment of the emergence of what Italians now call street food, in English. The relatively new and fashionable expression in a foreign language refers to the contemporary evolution of what used to be called cibo di strada (street food, in Italian). Both supported and stimulated by the media over the past decade, culinary entrepreneurs and creative chefs have been providing affordable and exciting dishes and snacks that are inspired by traditions, often updating and “elevating” them to respond to the penchants of their clientele. This article explores the significance of the new Italian street food and its connections with recent cultural and social developments in Italy in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis.