I guess it depends on what you get in an Italian restaurant. If you're ordering lasagna or fettuccine alfredo, then yes, that's heavy. On the other hand, a nice cioppino or a veal piccata is quite light. That's why I prefer Spiga to La Gondola (yes, I know it's closed), for example.

Since Germany is a much colder climate, the food is much more "stick to your ribs", as it should be.

As usual, it's why they make vanilla and chocolate.