10 Reasons to visit Torino - Part 6. Historic Cafès

Chocolate, desserts, and sweets lovers in general will find their heaven in Torino. Indeed, in addition to the immense confectionery tradition of Turin and Piedmont (which ranges from dry pastries to fresh ones, with a rich selection of cream puffs and biscuits), and the processing of chocolate in all its forms, in Torino you can taste these delicacies at one of the many Historic Cafes, all included in the list of "historic establishments of Italy".

These are open to the public and operating since decades, and sometimes even several centuries, such as the famous Al Bicerin, the birthplace of the famous 3 layered drink of chocolate, coffee and cream drink, created in 1763. The very famous Baratti & Milano, opened in its current location in Piazza Castello in 1875 (although operating since 1858). This is where you can taste the traditional hot chocolate with a high bitter cocoa content. My favorite Cafè, however is a small jewel of Art Nouveau called Mulassano, opened in its current location in Piazza Castello since 1907 but operating since 1879. Here, in addition to chocolate and bicerin, you can also taste the famous "Tramezzini": soft crustless white bread sandwiches filled with famous Piedmontese appetizers like salted anchovies and green sauce or roasted peppers with bagna caoda just to mention a few, created right here in 1926.

The options are truly endless: at Caffè Fiorio (1876), for example, you can taste the traditional Zabajon with Marsala wine, at Gelateria Pepino (1884) you can gorge on "pinguino," the world's first ice cream on a stick, at Confetteria Stratta (1836) you can taste a wide variety of colorful candies in addition to the famous marron glacé, at Caffè San Carlo (1826) and Caffè Torino (1903) you can enjoy a unique atmosphere while sipping an excellent espresso, while at Pfatisch you can experience the best chocolate in the city, and the list goes on.

If you want to experience Turin's "sweet" side, you can book my guided tour "Torino Chocotour," dedicated to its historic cafés. You'll hear many anecdotes and stories related to Torino's extraordinary Historic Cafès (the most numerous of Italy) and taste some of these delicacies.