Restaurants and Food in Turin A Comprehensive Guide

world tourism

5 Jan, 2025

Turin, the elegant city in northern Italy, is known for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful architecture, and most importantly, its exceptional culinary scene. Whether you are a traveler seeking authentic Italian cuisine or a local looking to explore new dining options, this guide delves into everything you need to know about restaurants and food in Turin. From traditional Piedmontese dishes to international flavors, Turin offers a gastronomic journey that caters to all tastes and preferences.

Restaurants and Food in Turin: A Comprehensive Guide

1. The Culinary Heritage of Turin

Turin’s culinary culture is deeply rooted in its history and regional traditions. Here are key highlights of what makes the city's food scene unique:

Piedmontese Cuisine: Turin is the capital of the Piedmont region, which is renowned for its rich and hearty dishes like vitello tonnato (veal with tuna sauce), bagna cauda (a warm garlic and anchovy dip), and agnolotti (stuffed pasta).
Chocolate and Gianduja: Turin is famously the birthplace of gianduja, a creamy blend of chocolate and hazelnut paste, which later inspired Nutella. The city also hosts the annual Cioccolatò festival.
Wine and Aperitivo Culture: As part of the Piedmont region, Turin boasts some of the best wines in Italy, including Barolo and Barbaresco. The city also popularized the Italian aperitivo tradition, often accompanied by snacks like breadsticks (grissini).

2. Top Restaurants in Turin

Turin’s dining scene includes everything from Michelin-starred establishments to cozy trattorias. Here is a curated list of must-visit restaurants:

A. Fine Dining

Del Cambio
- Location: Piazza Carignano, 2
- Highlights: This historic restaurant, dating back to 1757, offers a refined menu featuring traditional Piedmontese dishes with a modern twist.
- Must-try: Agnolotti del Plin and the Tajarin pasta with truffles.
Ristorante Magorabin
- Location: Corso San Maurizio, 61
- Highlights: Awarded a Michelin star, Magorabin combines innovation and tradition with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients.
- Must-try: Tasting menus paired with local wines.

B. Traditional Trattorias

Trattoria Valenza
- Location: Via Borgo Dora, 39
- Highlights: A charming eatery in the Balon district, known for its authentic Piedmontese dishes.
- Must-try: Bagna Cauda and Vitello Tonnato.
Osteria Antiche Sere
- Location: Via Cenischia, 9
- Highlights: This cozy osteria serves homemade specialties in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
- Must-try: Brasato al Barolo (beef braised in Barolo wine).

C. Street Food and Casual Dining

Trapizzino
- Location: Piazza Carlina, 2
- Highlights: A popular spot for Italian street food, specializing in pocket-sized pizza stuffed with various fillings.
- Must-try: Pollo alla Cacciatora filling.
Fiorfood
- Location: Galleria San Federico, 26
- Highlights: A casual dining spot within a concept store, offering fresh and organic ingredients.
- Must-try: Seasonal salads and artisanal desserts.

3. Iconic Foods to Try in Turin

No visit to Turin is complete without indulging in the city's signature dishes and drinks. Here are the must-try items:

A. Savory Dishes

Vitello Tonnato: Thinly sliced veal served with a creamy tuna and caper sauce.
Bagna Cauda: A warm dip made of garlic, anchovies, and olive oil, served with raw vegetables.
Agnolotti del Plin: Small, hand-pinched stuffed pasta filled with meat or vegetables.
Brasato al Barolo: Beef slow-cooked in Barolo wine.

B. Sweet Delights

Gianduja: A rich hazelnut chocolate spread, often enjoyed in desserts.
Bicerin: A traditional drink made of espresso, hot chocolate, and cream, served layered in a glass.
Zabaione: A creamy dessert made with egg yolks, sugar, and Marsala wine.

4. Turin’s Food Markets

Turin’s vibrant markets are a treasure trove for food lovers. Here are the top markets to explore:

Porta Palazzo Market: The largest open-air market in Europe, offering fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and international foods.
Balon Flea Market: While primarily a flea market, it also features food stalls serving traditional snacks.
Eataly Torino: A high-end market and eatery showcasing the best Italian ingredients, wines, and artisanal products.

5. Wine and Drinks in Turin

Turin’s wine culture is unparalleled, thanks to the nearby Langhe and Monferrato regions. Here are key drinks to enjoy:

Barolo Wine: Known as the "King of Wines," Barolo is a robust red wine with complex flavors.
Vermouth: Invented in Turin, this fortified wine is a staple in cocktails like the Negroni.
Bicerin: A must-try traditional drink unique to Turin.

6. Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Turin’s culinary scene caters to all dietary preferences. Here are some vegetarian- and vegan-friendly restaurants:

Mezzaluna
- Location: Via Mazzini, 8
- Highlights: Specializes in organic and vegan dishes made with local ingredients.
- Must-try: Vegan lasagna and tofu desserts.
Soul Kitchen
- Location: Via Santa Giulia, 2
- Highlights: Offers a wide variety of plant-based dishes with innovative flavors.
- Must-try: Vegan burgers and raw vegan cakes.

7. Dining Tips for Visitors

Reservations: Popular restaurants often require reservations, especially during weekends and holidays.
Timing: Italians typically dine later in the evening, around 8-9 PM.
Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for excellent service.
Language: While many restaurants have English menus, learning basic Italian phrases can enhance your dining experience.

Conclusion

Turin is a gastronomic paradise, offering a blend of traditional and modern culinary delights. From Michelin-starred restaurants to casual street food, the city caters to every palate and budget. Whether you’re savoring a creamy bicerin or indulging in a plate of agnolotti del plin, Turin’s food scene promises an unforgettable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the must-try dishes in Turin?

Some iconic dishes to try in Turin include Vitello Tonnato, Bagna Cauda, Agnolotti del Plin, and Brasato al Barolo. For desserts, don’t miss Gianduja, Bicerin, and Zabaione.