Piazza Castello, located at the heart of Turin, is home to a number of iconic eateries. One such place is Eataly, a gourmet food market that showcases the best of Italian gastronomy. Here, visitors can explore a wide range of artisanal cheeses, cured meats, handmade pastas, and other regional delicacies. Eataly also boasts several restaurants where you can savor traditional Piedmontese dishes, including the famous Agnolotti del Plin – small pasta pockets filled with a mixture of meat, vegetables, and cheese, served in a rich meat sauce.
For a truly authentic Piedmontese meal, head to Del Cambio, one of Turin’s oldest and most prestigious restaurants. Established in 1757, this iconic eatery has maintained its reputation for excellence and classic Italian cuisine. Del Cambio is known for its refined ambiance, impeccable service, and a menu that showcases the best ingredients from the region. Indulge in dishes such as tajarin – hand-cut pasta with butter and sage, or bollito misto – a traditional meat dish with boiled meats, accompanied by a variety of mouthwatering sauces.
If you’re looking for a more casual dining experience, check out Tre Galline, a beloved family-run trattoria that has been serving traditional Piedmontese dishes since 1575. Located in via Bellezia, this charming restaurant offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, making it the perfect place to try local specialties. Don’t miss out on the vitello tonnato – delicate slices of veal served with a creamy tuna sauce, or the finanziera – a flavorful ragout made with veal sweetbreads, chicken combs, and other offal cuts.
Turin is also known for its vibrant street food scene, and no visit is complete without sampling the city’s famous snacks. The perfect spot for a quick bite is Porta Palazzo market, the largest open-air market in Europe. Here, you can find an array of street food vendors offering mouthwatering treats such as panini con l’insalata Russa – sandwiches filled with a delicious mix of mayonnaise, pickled vegetables, and cold cuts, or the irresistible gianduiotto – a traditional hazelnut chocolate from Turin.
Sweet-toothed visitors cannot leave Turin without experiencing the city’s decadent chocolate tradition. Be sure to visit Pasticceria Al Bicerin, a historic café that has been serving its signature drink, bicerin, since 1763. This delightful concoction consists of layers of espresso, hot chocolate, and fresh cream, creating a velvety and indulgent beverage. Pair your bicerin with some buttery biscuits or a slice of gianduiotto cake for a true taste of Turin’s sweet side.
In conclusion, Turin is a gastronomic paradise offering a wide variety of culinary experiences. Whether you choose to dine in an elegant restaurant, a cozy trattoria, or indulge in street food delights, Turin’s food scene promises to satisfy all taste buds. The city’s emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and traditional recipes ensures that each meal is an authentic and unforgettable experience. So, take a culinary journey through Turin and discover why this city is truly a haven for food lovers.