Practicing Dolce far Niente, Delightful idleness

In preparation for the trip, I feel it's important to get the feel of Italy by practicing Dolce far Niente, the art of delightful idleness. With temperatures in the '70s today in Washington, I'm going to walk downtown and find someplace that resembles an Italian Piazza. (A piazza generally refers to an open pedestrian space, without grass or planting, often in front of a significant building or shops.) I'll buy a slice of pizza and sit outside to read and observe. I don't think public drinking is allowed in DC, so I'll take my own wine in a disguised container.

Smithsonian Castle

The first stop on my search was the Smithsonian Castle where the Spring Garden has been planted and the Magnolia tree blossoms are ready to open. A beautiful historical building with lots of public space and a restaurant inside; but this is a Garden not a Piazza.

Next I strolled over to 1600 Pennsylvania Ave.

White House on blocked off Pennsylvania Ave.

Lots of paved space, and a very important meeting place, but no restaurants or shops. This is more of a park and a photo opportunity.

Then I walked to the Woodrow Wilson Plaza where during the summer evenings concerts are held. The restaurants weren't open for lunch yet but it was as close to an Italian Piazza as I could find. Still, even with an Italian restaurant and outdoor tables, it just didn't seem Italian.

Woodrow Wilson Plaza