We have gone out into the local stores and selected everyday products  in order to give you an idea of the cost of living  - or at least the cost of eating here in Tuscany Italy.

 

Every week we will add new products, services and comparisons -

have anything you are especially looking for, let us know!

you want to know how the price fares to you but aren't up on exchange rates, may we suggest you use:  http://www.xe.com/ucc/

 

One of the largest selections of fresh pasta can be found in the Italian supermarkets (of course)...so we thought that would be a good place to start.

Ravioli, this is a square shaped filled fresh pasta found normally in the refrigerated area of the supermarket - though sometimes you can find them at the deli counter as well.  They are traditionally filled with ricotta cheese and spinach, however you can find some tempting variations on the theme (porcini mushrooms or even salmon filled ravioli).

500 grams (approximately 1.1 pound)  will vary in cost from 4.50.-Euro to 5.-Euro.  The ravioli at the deli counter are normally a little more, BUT they have a tendency to be a little better in quality.

Tortellini, a round or oval shaped meat and cheese filled pasta.  You can find this in the dried pasta area as well as the fresh pasta area.

250 gr. (approximately a half a pound) of tortellini will vary from 2.85.-Euro to about 3.25.-Euro - again these can be found at the deli counter.  The best thing about buying them at the deli counter is you can get the exact weight you want.  Most Italians figure about 100grs. a head (remember 100 grams to the kg)

And of course you are going to want to cover these tasty pastas in parmesan cheese!  100 grams. (3.5 ounces) of already grated parmesan cheese will run you about 1.50.-Euro.  You can buy it buy the block - and you will find it normally close to the milk area.  They are in pre wrapped triangular packages (called grana or reggiano). It will appear a little more costly - because it is approximately 2.-Euro per 100gr.  However it is great also to eat as snackers, so you can get your dollars worth.