First, let’s begin with what to see in Novara. The city is home to many beautiful churches and monuments, including the Basilica of San Gaudenzio, the Broletto, and the Fontana del Nettuno, just to name a few. The Basilica of San Gaudenzio is a stunning church that stands tall over the city. The church is most famous for its bell tower, which stands at 121 meters, making it one of the tallest in Italy. The Broletto, a medieval building, was once the seat of political power in Novara and now houses the city’s art gallery. Finally, the Fontana del Nettuno is a beautiful fountain in the heart of the city, surrounded by stunning architecture and bustling streets.
Now that we have seen what Novara has to offer in terms of sights, let’s move on to the food. The culinary traditions of Novara are heavily influenced by the region of Piedmont, which is famous for its rich and hearty cuisine. One of the most famous dishes in Novara is risotto, made using Carnaroli or Arborio rice, cooked with meat broth, coated with butter, and served with Parmesan or Grana Padano cheese. Another typical dish is agnolotti, a variety of pasta stuffed with meat, vegetables, or cheese. Lastly, the city is home to a very famous dessert – the Novara biscuit. These crunchy biscuits, made with hazelnuts and sugar, are delicious and perfect for dipping in coffee or tea.
Now, onto the trattorias. If you are looking for a trattoria to try these typical dishes, we recommend the Trattoria del Gallo, located in the historic center of Novara. The restaurant serves many local specialties, including risotto and agnolotti, alongside other Piedmontese dishes. The atmosphere is cozy and rustic, perfect for a night of good food and wine. Another trattoria to try is Albergo Ristorante il Delfino, located near the train station. This place is famous for its seafood, but they also serve traditional Piedmontese dishes like agnolotti and brasato, a flavorful beef dish.
In conclusion, Novara is a city that offers much to those interested in art, history, and gastronomy. From the stunning architecture of the churches and fountains to the rich and hearty flavors of the local cuisine, Novara has something for everyone. If you find yourself in Novara, be sure to try the delicious risotto, agnolotti, and Novara biscuits, and visit one of the city’s incredible trattorias to taste the local flavors.