C'è un'area barbecue?

Is there a barbecue area?

Pronunciation

bar-be-CUE — three syllables, pronounced approximately as in English.

When to use it

Ask for villa or countryside stays where outdoor cooking might be available. City apartments rarely have barbecue facilities.

What it means

'C'è un'area barbecue' — 'area' is feminine so it elides to 'un'area'. 'Barbecue' is used in Italian as in English. Italian outdoor cooking also includes 'grigliata' (grill) on a 'griglia' (grill grate) over 'carbonella' (charcoal) or 'legna' (wood).

Variations

C'è una griglia per il barbecue?

Is there a grill for the barbecue?

Ask about the specific equipment available

Dove trovo la carbonella?

Where can I find charcoal?

Ask where to buy charcoal nearby

È permesso fare una grigliata?

Is it allowed to do a barbecue?

Some Italian properties, particularly in fire-risk areas, prohibit open fires

Mini Dialogue

— C'è un'area barbecue? — Sì! Sul retro c'è una griglia fissa. La carbonella è nel capanno. — Perfetto. Ci sono restrizioni? — Solo non fare il fuoco quando c'è vento forte, per sicurezza.

— Is there a barbecue area? — Yes! At the back there is a fixed grill. The charcoal is in the shed. — Perfect. Are there any restrictions? — Just do not light a fire when the wind is strong, for safety.

Cultural Note

The Italian 'grigliata' (barbecue) is a major summer social ritual. In rural areas, outdoor grills using wood ('legna') are traditional and produce excellent flavour. In fire-risk regions (much of central and southern Italy in summer), outdoor fires can be completely prohibited — always check local regulations.

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Devo pulire l'appartamento prima di partire?

Ci sono biciclette disponibili?

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