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PhrasesDietary RestrictionsMangio solo pesce, non carne.
A2

Mangio solo pesce, non carne.

I eat only fish, not meat.

Pronunciation

PEHS-sheh — 'sc' before 'e' = 'sh'. 'Solo' = SOH-lo, stress on first syllable.

When to use it

Use to clearly define your pescetarian diet. This is a well-understood dietary preference in Italian coastal regions.

What it means

'Solo' (only) is a powerful limiter here. 'Mangio solo pesce' clearly establishes what you eat. In Italy, 'pescetariano' is a known term, though asking staff directly is more practical.

Variations

Sono pescetariano/pescetariana.

I am pescetarian.

The Italian term for a fish-eating vegetarian.

Il brodo è di carne o di pesce?

Is the broth meat-based or fish-based?

Important check for soups and risotto.

Niente carne, solo frutti di mare.

No meat, only seafood.

Clear specification for mixed seafood dishes.

Mini Dialogue

Cameriere: Per il secondo le consiglio il vitello arrosto. Cliente: Mangio solo pesce, non carne. Avete pesce? Cameriere: Certo! Abbiamo branzino alla griglia e baccalà alla livornese. Cliente: Il branzino, per favore.

Waiter: For the main I recommend the roast veal. Client: I eat only fish, not meat. Do you have fish? Waiter: Of course! We have grilled sea bass and salt cod livornese style. Client: The sea bass, please.

Cultural Note

The Catholic tradition of not eating meat on Fridays ('venerdì di magro') has historically shaped Italian pescetarian-friendly menus. Many traditional restaurants still offer fish-focused 'venerdì' specials.