"Why Every Italian Restaurant Pronounces ‘Cacio e Pepe’ Wrong!

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 15:17:20 +0000

Why Every Italian Restaurant Pronounces “Cacio e Pepe” Wrong (And What to Actually Say Instead) If you’ve ever sat down at an Italian restaurant in the U.S., ordered Cacio e Pepe, and felt confused when the chef pronounced it something like “KAY-choh PEH- peanut” or “CASH-coh PEE-tay,” you’re not imagining things. The truth is, almost every English-speaking Italian restaurant pronounces “Cacio e Pepe” incorrectly—but don’t worry, it’s not a mistake in the traditional sense. This article breaks down why this dish’s name is frequently mispronounced, how Italians actually say it, and why getting it right matters for authentic Italian dining. ### The Misconception: Why “Cacio e Pee Pee” Isn’t Traditional Italian When most Americans hear Cacio e Pepe, the pronunciation leans toward “KAY-choh PEH-ee” or “CAY-choh PEH-ee,” but native Italian speakers typically say it as “KAHO cheh PEH-pee”—with a crisp, almost clipped rhythm that reflects its roman roots. The real issue isn’t a mistake per se; it’s the elevation of a humble Roman dish into what sounds like a playful mockery rather than an elegant tribute.