Italy's Trattorias Offer Hand-Painted Ceramic Plates as Souvenirs of Regional Cuisine

In Italy, the custom known as Piatti del Buon Ricordo, translating to 'plates of good memories,' enables patrons at select trattorias to take home a hand-painted ceramic plate representing their signature dish. Initiated in 1964 by Dino Villani to celebrate Italian culinary heritage, the initiative reached its height with more than 130 restaurants, though currently, 111 still participate. The plates are handcrafted by artisans at Ceramiche Artistiche Solimene, with designs by Paolo Argenton since 1985. Each plate displays the restaurant's name, its signature dish, and local motifs. Overseen by the Unione Ristoranti Buon Ricordo under Cesare Carbone, this initiative preserves regional cuisine. Vintage plates have become collectibles, with eBay prices ranging from 3 to over 150 euros, influencing modern eateries like La Piola in Alba.