Cailian, possibly part of the explanation, is that Italy was no colonizer like the UK, France, Spain, Portugal, Holland, etc. Italy lacked the connection to many exotic foods and the folk who prepared them. Provincial, you could say.

Italy was late to move from land, industrialize and trade with a world beyond the Mediterranean. The upside is lives that are more organic and sensual. Hence Italian dominance in design.

When traveling, we scored cities and countries by "memorable meals." London has the most. Madrid and Mexico City were next. The bottom was Cairo with zip.

Always imaginative and enjoyable.

Best.