You’ll Be Stunned to Learn that These Italian Dishes Were Made in America

Who would have guessed that Spaghetti and Meatballs isn’t a traditional Italian dish or that “Italian” dressing was invented in Massachusetts?

In fact, many of the foods considered to be Italian classics aren’t consumed in Italy at all. For example, Italians wouldn’t dream of adding chicken to their pasta (pasta courses are served without meat), and the very Italian-sounding Cioppino - or fish stew - was created in San Francisco by Italian-American fishermen. Italian Wedding Soup doesn’t include pasta, and there’s no such thing as “garlic bread” prepared by slathering garlic butter on a toasted baguette. Bruschetta, however, is served by the slice and made by brushing olive oil on toasted ciabatta. Here are some other “Italian” dishes that aren’t actually served in Italy:

●     Baked Ziti

●     Pasta with Vodka Sauce

●     Chicken Parmesan

●     Pizza topped with Pepperoni

●     Caesar Salad

It's no surprise that mozzarella sticks and pizza rolls are not Italian creations, but it is shocking to learn that Italian-American immigrants created many of these well-known dishes.

Italian Food Orlando

For the Orlando visitor who's searching for an authentic - yet fresh - take on classic Italian dishes, Mia's Italian Restaurant is definitely worth a visit. Of the many restaurants near Orlando Convention Center, Mia's is a favorite for its pasta and sauces that are house-made using simple, raw ingredients. Patrons will enjoy delicious starters like a giant meatball (spaghetti not needed), grilled stuffed calamari, a variety of customizable charcuterie boards, or a bowl of steaming minestrone. For those who find it difficult to choose just one type of pizza, Mia's bakes them in a brick oven and serves them by the square slice, so it's easier to sample. Then there are the classic authentic specialties like Braciole di Marzo and Eggplant Parmigiana. But don't forget dessert - and it won't be easy to choose just one. Mia's offers apple-ricotta donuts, biscotti, gelatos and sorbets, and unique takes on traditional tiramisu and cannoli.

Sunday Brunch Orlando

There’s nothing ordinary about Mia’s Sunday Brunch. Orlando visitors are first treated to a variety of cocktail options - including a bottomless Mimosa Bar, other “Sparklers” made with Prosecco and fruit juices or liqueurs, and spicy bloody marys concocted with a house-made San Marzano tomato mix. Even the eggs and pancakes take on an Italian twist, and Mia’s favorites - like pizza and pasta - are also on the menu. With so many delicious options, it just makes sense to go for the best bottomless brunch Orlando offers.

Birthday Celebrations at Mia’s Italian Restaurant

The talented culinary team, led by Chef Brandon Whitestone, can create a customized birthday menu, no matter the size of the crowd or the appetites of the partygoers. The host can choose either a sampling of hors d'oeuvres, a hearty buffet, or multi-course plated meals, and all events include a coordinator to ensure the party goes off without a hitch. Of the many Orlando birthday party venues, a celebration at Mia's will be truly unforgettable.

Authentic Italian Classics and Delicious Variety

Taste rustic-Italian cooking and a variety of traditional favorites without leaving the country! Mia’s Italian Restaurant offers farm-to-table cooking in the heart of Orlando. Reserve a table today.