A Great Turin Restaurant - Il Tempo Ritrovato

A little out of the centre, on the corner of via Passo di Brennero and Corso Monte Grappa but on the Turin subway/underground (get off at the Monte Grappa station) is Il Tempo Ritrovato.

The name means time rediscovered in English, and it's a Turin restaurant where afternoons and evenings seem to drift past in languid indulgence. Time, not so much rediscovered but time going backwards, backwards to a slower world—a world we all miss. This is truly an escape into the world of the great Italian philosophy of life called Dolce far Niente.

What about the food?

I have never been disappointed here. Everything I have ever eaten has always been great, and the menu changes weekly according to what is in season. A dining experience that seamlessly blends romance and a family-friendly atmosphere is created in an ambiance that is both intimate and inviting, perfect for a romantic dinner or a cozy family meal. The menu, though not extensive, features high-quality selections and an impressive wine list. 

Gianni, the owner, comes from a family that has always been involved in the food business. His love for authentic, genuine dishes invariably shines through, and the fact that the restaurant has been here for over 25 years, is testament to its enduring appeal to locals from the neighborhood who are still the the main customers. This is not one of those horrible tourist traps you find in so many Italian cities these days.

In fact, I was one of their first customers when they opened and I have remained loyal all these years. Whenever I am in Turin, I know where my first nights dinner will be eaten - always at Tempo Ritrovato. 

Like I mentioned, the menu changes frequently, but if you are lucky and it is on the menu then you really mustn't miss the soufflé of spinach and the cream of Piedmont nuts on the antipasto menu.

A Turin classic, is the agnolotti del plin, served with a traditional sauce. This is a must. You will almost always find agnolotti on the menu in one form or another.

The dessert trolley has to be seen to be believed and will definitely bring a sparkle to your eye... and a few pounds to the hips. But what are a few pounds in exchange for these delectable treats. All the best Piedmont desserts are here.

The influence on Gianni of his mamma Anna is enormous (and which Italian man is not influenced by his mamma) in fact, the atmosphere of this restaurant is likewise a veritable celebration of family and friendship.

Together with his wife Rosa, Gianni will ensure that your evening is a memorable one and you are sure to leave you with a smile on your face and a feeling of having stepped back in time to a less stressful and rushed era.


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