La Cantinetta

For 26 years we always stop and have a meal here. It is a benchmark. The best version of the food of the region and the wine list is both exceptional and reasonable. If you only have time to make one choice, this is it. Others are middling to very good, but this family deliver the best example year after year. Do not miss the superb pasta with the eggs or the delicate, delicious pannacotta for dessert. Both are unequalled in this town or others nearby. Make a booking as it has become busier every year. Buon Appetito!

Lunch at La Cantinella in Barolo was a delightful experience, framed by the restaurant's rustic charm and a welcoming, refined atmosphere. Nestled in Italy’s renowned wine country, it offers an authentic taste of Piedmontese cuisine with a modern touch. The service was outstanding—attentive, yet unobtrusive, adding a special note to our visit. The menu featured a standout dish, the fresh pasta with ragù, which was possibly the best I've ever tasted. Expertly prepared, the pasta perfectly complemented the rich, flavourful sauce, making each bite a culinary delight. The quail was another highlight, succulent and well-seasoned, though the accompanying mashed potatoes were slightly heavy for a lunch serving. One shortcoming was the lack of vegetarian options, which could have enhanced the inclusivity of the menu. Despite this, the quality and execution of the dishes presented were impressive. Since we were driving, we skipped wine, but this didn’t lessen our enjoyment of the meal. Our lunch at La Cantinella was memorable enough to ensure a return visit, hoping next time to possibly explore their wine list more fully.

To be honest, normally I don’t go to Barolo as it has somehow been ruined by tourism. However, a friend (whom I trust recommended this place), so we decided to go and try it. It’s a small place tucked away in a corner from the main pedestrian street. Looking very authentic in the right way if you know what I mean. The second you step inside you know that you made the right decision. The smell of food, the sound of laughter and a beautiful down to earth kind of feeling hits you. The friendly staff (all mature and no smartness) kindly escorts you to the table. We were seated in the back close to the open fireplace. How cozy is that? The menu is simple, but my god the flavours are some of the best I have ever had in the area. The risotto (takes at least 20 min😀) was cooked to perfection, the quails were deboned & cooked in Nebbiolo wine with potato mash and haricot vert on the side. We had a truly fantastic 2019 Barolo from Bartolo Mascarello & the food/wine pairing was made in heaven. Just a note on the wine list - prices are extremely fair. Considering you are in the middle of Barolo. We paid € 150,00 for our Barolo and that’s a bargain. We also had desserts and again I must say: “complimenti”. Best panna cotta ever😀. We were 3 people, had 3 dishes each, water, wine & coffee and the bill came to € 270,00. We all agreed that it was a bargain and we can’t wait to come back. Thank you for an amazing experience🙏