Discover the culture, flavours and stories behind your favourite dishes at Cibo Manchester.
Italian food is more than just food – it is a way of life that has captured the hearts of people all over the world because it is simple, fresh and full of tradition. At Cibo, we believe that every dish tells a story. These stories are based on regional pride and culinary mastery that has been passed down through generations. In this blog, we invite you to learn more about Italian cuisine with ten fun and surprising facts that might change the way you look at your next plate.
1. There Are Over 600 Pasta Shapes
There are more than 600 different shapes of pasta in Italy, each of which can hold sauces in a particular way. Tagliatelle, for example, go well with rich, meaty sauces – like our Tagliatelle Bolognese – while penne go well with creamy sauces due to their ribbed surface. Next time you order from Cibo Pasta, take a moment to see how the shape of the pasta harmonises with the sauce – it’s intentional.
2. The Pizza Margherita Is a Tribute to the Italian Flag
The iconic Margherita pizza is not just a delicious dish – it is also a piece of history. The red tomato, white mozzarella and green basil symbolise the Italian tricolour. It is a reminder that food and national identity are often intertwined in Italian culture.
3. Italy Is a Cheese Lover’s Paradise
Did you know that more than 400 different types of cheese are produced in Italy? From crumbly pecorino and creamy burrata to the king of cheeses, Parmigiano Reggiano, Italian cheese production is as diverse as its regions. At Cibo, you’ll find Italian cheeses in many of our dishes – from salads to risottos – adding depth and authenticity to every bite.
4. Italian Food Changes With the Region – and the Season
What you eat in Milan is fundamentally different from what is served in Sicily. In northern Italy, butter, cream and rice dishes such as risotto take centre stage, while in the south, tomatoes, olives and seafood take centre stage. Even our own menu at Cibo reflects this diversity in our seasonal offerings and regional inspirations.
5. Wine Is More Than a Beverage – It’s a Way of Life
In Italy, wine is not reserved for special occasions – it is an everyday pleasure, often enjoyed with lunch or dinner. The key is balance and pairing. At Cibo, our wine list is carefully matched to the dishes we serve. Whether you’re enjoying a seafood salad or a creamy mushroom risotto, we have the perfect Italian wine to go with it.
6. “Garlic Bread” Isn’t Actually Italian
Although garlic bread is often associated with Italian dishes in other countries, it is more of a Western creation. In Italy, the more authentic version is bruschetta – toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes, olive oil and occasionally garlic or mushrooms. Try our Bruschetta Funghi to get a real flavour of how Italians enjoy this rustic starter.
7. Many Classic Italian Dishes Are Naturally Vegetarian
Italian cuisine is incredibly versatile – many traditional recipes are plant-based without compromising on flavour. Dishes like Parmigiana di Melanzane (layered aubergines with mozzarella and tomato sauce) or our Pizza Ortolana (with courgettes and sun-drenched tomatoes) are proof that Italian cuisine makes vegetables the star of the show.
8. In Italy, Meals Are Never Rushed
Italian culture attaches great importance to mealtimes – it is a time to slow down, socialise and enjoy. Meals are seen as social occasions and are rarely rushed. At Cibo, we embrace this philosophy by creating an atmosphere where you can relax, savour every bite and create memories with the people around you.
9. Gelato Is Not Just Ice Cream
Even though they look similar, gelato and traditional ice cream are very different. Gelato contains less fat and air, giving it a richer texture and more intense flavour. It is smoother, silkier and is served slightly warmer than ice cream, making it a favourite end to many Italian meals.
10. Experience a taste of Italy – right here in Manchester
At Cibo, every plate tells a story – a story rooted in the culinary traditions of Italy, but brought to life here in the heart of Manchester. Whether you’re enjoying a cosy lunch in Hale, a romantic dinner in Wilmslow or a get-together with friends in Disley, Cibo brings the warmth, authenticity and elegance of Italian cuisine straight to your table.
We invite you to savour these flavours, discover new favourite dishes and experience unforgettable moments – because at Cibo you don’t just eat Italian, you experience the Italian way of life.
