The best meal of our time in Alba was here at Voglia di Vino (translates to I Want Wine). The appetizer was by far the most decadent; a soft poached egg, with a cheese fonduta, bread chips and a mound of shaved black truffle. Alba is known for its truffles and they definitely love to include them in dishes. The egg and cheese combination was perfect. We enjoyed a traditional pasta dish called Tajarin with Piedmont ragu. They are fine, hand-cut egg noodles made with an extra-rich yolk dough. These noodles are made with more egg yolks than typical pasta which makes a richer pasta and helps the sauce stick more to the noodles. It was very good!
Locanda Voglia di Vino
City: Alba
Region: Piedmont
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.