Gusto Madre

City: Alba
Region: Piedmont

Situated on the left side of the Piazza Ferrero, we once again enjoyed sitting outside and watching the world go by. We decided to try another traditional dish called Vitello Tonnato. It is a classic Piedmontese specialty made of thinly sliced chilled veal, topped with a creamy tuna, caper, and anchovy sauce. It is one of the most famous traditional dishes of the region and is served on every menu. The combination was surprisingly tasty. The veal was tender and cooked to perfection and the tuna sauce is light and does not overpower the meat. While we did not order it again during our visit, we were happy to have tasted it once.
The restaurant has a full menu with pizzas, pastas and more plus a comprehensive wine list.

About the Region:

Piedmont is one of Italy’s best-kept secrets, where the Alps meet rolling vineyards and every hillside feels like a postcard. Picture snowy peaks in the distance, rows of Nebbiolo vines climbing the hills, and tiny villages crowned with castles and church towers. This is Barolo and Barbaresco country — wines that have made the region famous around the world.

Turin, the capital, sets the stage with elegant boulevards, chocolate shops, and cozy cafés. But the real magic lies in the smaller towns: Alba, home of the legendary white truffle; Asti, known for its sparkling wines; and Barolo itself, a village that punches far above its size in reputation. Autumn is especially unforgettable, with truffle fairs and harvest festivals filling the streets.

Food here is reason enough to visit. Piedmont is the birthplace of the Slow Food movement, so meals are all about savoring. You’ll find silky tajarin pasta, creamy risottos, roasted hazelnuts, and hearty dishes made to pair with big, bold wines. From rustic trattorias to Michelin-starred restaurants, every bite feels special.

And beyond the table? There’s plenty to explore. The vineyard landscapes of the Langhe and Monferrato are UNESCO World Heritage sites, the Alps offer skiing and hiking, and lakes like Orta and Maggiore add a touch of calm beauty.

At its heart, Piedmont is about slowing down — sipping wine in a vineyard, lingering over lunch, or watching the sunset light up the mountains. It’s a place that doesn’t just feed you, it stays with you.

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