Where is the dairy section?
do-VE il re-PAR-to la-TYE-ro ka-ze-A-ryo
Asking a supermarket employee for directions to a specific department.
Italian supermarkets are organised into reparti (departments). Knowing the Italian names for departments speeds up shopping. Key ones: reparto ortofrutta (fruit and veg), reparto macelleria (butcher), reparto pescheria (fishmonger), reparto salumi e formaggi (cured meats and cheese), reparto panetteria (bakery).
Dov'è la pasta?
Where is the pasta?
Simple and direct — pasta is always easy to find
Dove sono i prodotti per celiaci?
Where are the gluten-free products?
Gluten-free section — increasingly prominent in Italian supermarkets
Dove trovo l'acqua minerale?
Where do I find mineral water?
Mineral water — Italians buy large quantities
Italian supermarkets often maintain a separate banco servito (staffed counter) for premium cheeses, cured meats, and fresh fish, in addition to pre-packaged options in the regular aisles. The counter service preserves the traditional delicatessen experience.