Italian supermarkets are treasure troves: €3 wine better than €15 abroad, €2 Parmigiano that costs €8 at home. But they work differently: you MUST weigh your own produce, bags cost money, and many close for lunch. Shopping hours → · What to bring home →
1. Esselunga (north): Italy's best — excellent produce, bakery, deli. 2. Coop (nationwide): Largest cooperative, ethical, organic range. 3. Conad (nationwide): Good quality, strong in south. 4. Carrefour: Longer hours (some until 10pm). 5. Lidl/Eurospin: Budget — surprisingly good Italian products. 6. Eataly: Premium food hall — visit once, not for daily shopping.
Dried pasta (€1-2, De Cecco/Rummo). San Marzano tomatoes (€1.50). EVOO (€5-12). Parmigiano (€15-20/kg). Prosciutto crudo (€3-4/100g at deli). Mozzarella (€1-2). Wine (€3-8 range beats €15 elsewhere). For your suitcase: Pasta, balsamic IGP, coffee beans, giandujotti, dried porcini, taralli.
Produce: Weigh+label at the scale (press the item number). No label = cashier sends you back. Bags: Bring your own (€0.05-0.25 each). Hours: Most 8:30-20:00/21:00. Some close for lunch in south. Sunday: Many open morning only. Alcohol: Available everywhere (no separate liquor stores).