I am vegetarian.
Stress veh-jeh-tah-RYAH-no. The 'g' is soft before 'e'.
Use this when first telling a waiter or host about your diet. Say it early so the kitchen can prepare accordingly. Add 'vegetariana' if you are female.
Italian adjectives agree with gender: vegetariano (male), vegetariana (female). In Italy, vegetarianism is increasingly common, especially in cities, but rural trattorias may have limited options. Always confirm that dishes contain no meat or fish.
Sono vegano/vegana.
I am vegan.
Use when no animal products at all are consumed.
Non mangio carne.
I don't eat meat.
More direct alternative; useful if unsure about the term.
Seguo una dieta vegetariana.
I follow a vegetarian diet.
More formal phrasing, suitable for restaurants.
Italy has a long tradition of 'cucina povera' — peasant cooking — which is naturally vegetarian. Dishes like pasta e fagioli, ribollita, and caponata are beloved and meat-free.