Observations

Observations

Inconspicuous McDonald’s

Mickey Di’s golden arches in Rome are not as loud and outstanding as those I have seen in other places around the world. Even in Zaragoza, Spain where los maños are very proud of their region’s cuisine and eat whatever is on the menu del día at just about any bar or restaurant in the city.

I compare my experience in Zaragoza to what I am observing in Rome because both places are very proud of their gastronomic history. Considering the fact that Slow Food was founded in Rome in response to the projected construction of a McDonald’s in the Piazza di Spagna, it makes sense that the red and yellow logo of the fast food icon be minimized to an 11x14 placard.

If I had been looking for the McDonald’s in the Piazza della Rotonda, I would have easily missed it because it is veiled by at least twenty outdoor tables with umbrellas that are just tall enough to mask the little M on the windows. I am not a die-hard opponent to McDonald’s but I was happy to see that a major world city has not been completely bombarded by fast food chains from the United States. As a matter of fact, I have not seen one Dunkin Donuts, KFC or Pizza Hut. How wonderful!

On the other hand, there are small pizza shops, independent restaurants and coffee bars at the turn of every street. Oh, and I can’t forget about the gelato shops. The weather has been a little cold for me to indulge in Italy’s notorious frozen treat but I’m sure I’ll sample a gelato of some sort before I leave.