They can sometimes give you "looks" if you wave away the wine list. They make a good profit on the mark-up on wines. It shouldn't worry you though. I'd order a bottle of mineral water and leave it at that.

I do not drink alcohol . . . . . I have never experienced any disapproval when ordering (bottled) water. Don't stress out about it . . . . it's not an issue.

Chris.

I don't drink and never felt censured at all in Europe (though I've felt that way a time or two here in the US). Of course, I almost always have soda and I'm sure they make a hefty profit off of that as well. But even when it was just water in Italy I never got an impression other than "of course; right away".

Its perfectly acceptable to have mineral water with a meal in Italy. You are usually asked whether you want it still or fizzy. Never had any disapproving gestures at all on my visits, its pretty commonplace.

Well I see I'm in the minority (not the first time!). It could be that where visitors eat the waiters/waitresses are used to it.

I've lived here for more than 30 years and in some country restaurants not frequented by tourists I've had some "disappointed" looks when I've refused the wine list. That's all. No big deal.

Be aware that you are expected to order bottled water in Italy, not tap water, but in France "un carafe d'eau" is offered free if you ask.

I drink like a fish, but that's neither here nor there. You and I are calling the shots, order or no what you wish.

BTW, the new Mount Hillary wine from your country is superb.

We don't order wine either, and I've never seen even a disappointed look. However, here in Le Marche, there is a significant number of people, including my husband, who don't drink any alcohol at all.

Just remember that you are the customer!:-)

Not everyone drinks alcohol and if you just want water with your meal then that is what you should have.

I really wouldn't worry about this at all.