Veni, Vidi, Vini

I put this title in two days ago fully intending to write a quick description of the Mercato Centrale, but never got around to it, so here you are finally.... 

As you climb the escalator to the second floor, the anticipation of what you smell, hear and partially see is exciting.  Once you get up there, this is what do see...

This photo doesn't do justice to the size of the space or the ancient building.  The basket hanging lights were at least 10' to 12' in size.  Then this....

And great graphics that were funny, but informative and then this one of many food signs....

The place was bustling and everyone seemed happy to be there, including the workers.  We were ready to relax with an Apero Spritz (my new favorite aperif.....Apero, prosecco and club soda, soooo refreshing,) people watch and decide what to have for dinner.

It didn't take us long to realize that here as well as other parts of the city, 99.9% of the people are really! really! nice.  They have easy smiles and always are happy to help you with the language, directions, or whatever.  The other thing that is obvious is that there is no point in getting upset if your service is slow or the bathrooms are not what you expected, because, after all, this is ITALY.  Live and let live.

Yes, but, back to the Mercato... Think grand, sophisticated, bright and airy food court.  So many choices, so little time....I finally decided on a focaccia topped with melted Gorgonzola, prosciutto, and walnuts.  Maria had a spinach penne topped with a light tomato sauce and a dollop of ricotta cheese.  This is the man who sold me the focaccia.... ( the photos of the food are on my iPhone and I don't know how to get them here).....

After taking this all in, we finally decided to head back to the apartment, but, not before having the obligatory Gelato.....      "In Italy food must be 'hello' as well as buono!"