Tasting of Calabrian Friselle, historic pizzas, and Italian wines in Turin

Tasting of Calabrian Friselle, Historic Pizzas, and Italian Wines in Turin

Imagine stepping into a warm, inviting Italian home right in the heart of Turin. This experience is not just about tasting food; it’s about savoring stories, traditions, and flavors passed down through generations. Set in a cozy, family-run environment, this tour offers a delightful two-hour journey into Italy’s culinary soul, with only 14 guests per evening ensuring an intimate, personalized vibe.

What we love about this tasting is how it combines authenticity and conviviality, making you feel like a guest in Nonna Cleme’s own kitchen. The focus on small, sustainable wineries and homemade recipes lends a genuine feeling of community and tradition. One potential consideration is that it’s a relatively short experience—two hours—so those seeking a full multi-course feast or extensive wine tour might find it a bit light. But if you’re looking for meaningful bites, stories, and a taste of Italy’s regional diversity, this tour hits the mark. Perfect for curious food lovers, wine enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a relaxed, authentic evening in Turin.

Key Points

• Intimate setting: Only 14 guests allow for a relaxed and personal experience.
• Authentic recipes: Traditional Friselle and pizzas tell stories of southern and northern Italy.
• Curated wines: Three carefully selected organic wines from small local wineries.
• Family atmosphere: Hosted by Nonna Cleme, adding warmth and genuine hospitality.
• Authentic regional flavors: Tropea onions and homemade desserts bring regional authenticity.
• Value for the price: Approximately 2 hours of food, wine, stories, and conviviality for $69.

An Authentic Italian Welcome in Turin

This experience begins with an invitation into a genuine Italian home, where Nonna Cleme’s warm hospitality immediately puts you at ease. Located just steps from the Egyptian Museum and Piazza San Carlo, the setting is perfect for those exploring Turin’s city center. The space is a cozy dining room with a single table, making the evening feel more like a gathering among friends than a formal tour.

From the outset, the aromas set the tone: the scent of warm, crusty bread, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil fill the air. The first tasting is rustic friselle, an iconic southern Italian antipasto, seasoned with cherry tomatoes, oregano, and extra virgin olive oil. As one reviewer notes, “The friselle were seasoned perfectly, and it felt like a genuine family recipe.” This simple dish exemplifies the beauty of Italian cooking—lean, fresh, and bursting with flavor.

Following this, you’re introduced to Tropea onions, a delicacy from Calabria. These sweet, tender onions are marinated and served as part of a convivial family-style appetizer, broken apart with your hands. This tactile element is appreciated by guests, emphasizing the authentic, unpretentious nature of the experience.

The Storytelling of Italy’s Pizzas

One of the most compelling highlights is the tasting of four traditional Italian pizzas, served in miniature gourmet portions. Each pizza is presented as a “little gem,” with descriptions of how regional ingredients and traditions influence the toppings. These aren’t overly elaborate or fancy—think thin, crisp bases topped with simple, high-quality ingredients—yet each bite offers a clear narrative of Italy’s culinary diversity.

Guests report that “the pizzas are served as a journey through Italy,” with each one telling a different regional story. The host and staff are knowledgeable, sharing insights into the origins of each style, which elevates the tasting beyond mere eating. The small portions allow for tasting multiple varieties without feeling overwhelmed.

The Perfect Pairing: Italian Organic Wines

Complementing the food are three glasses of organic, vegan wines, carefully selected from small local wineries. The wines are chosen to match each phase of the tasting, starting with a lively, fresh white that pairs well with the friselle, followed by a fruity red that accompanies the pizza, and finally a more structured red to enhance the heartier flavors.

According to reviews, “each sip encapsulates a story of the land—hills, sun, and artisan hands”—adding depth and context to the tasting. The wine pairing isn’t just about alcohol; it’s about appreciating the craftsmanship and passion of small-scale Italian winemakers. Water is plentiful and served throughout, ensuring you stay refreshed.

A Sweet Ending with a Homemade Touch

No Italian meal is complete without dessert, and here, Nonna Cleme’s homemade sweet arrives as a charming finale. It’s served alongside a small glass of digestif—either sweet or bitter—enhancing the overall experience. Guests often mention how the dessert feels like a warm hug, reminiscent of Sunday family gatherings.

One review highlights that “the dessert is just like something Nonna would make,” adding a personal, homey touch that elevates the entire tasting. The evening wraps up with a final toast, celebrating the flavors and stories shared during the night.

Atmosphere, Practicalities, and Value

The tour’s small size—just 14 guests—creates a warm, convivial atmosphere that’s hard to replicate in larger restaurants. It’s like being welcomed into someone’s home, which makes the experience feel special and personal. The host, Nonna Cleme, shares stories and insights in both Italian and English, making it accessible to international guests.

The experience lasts approximately two hours, and the price of $69 offers strong value considering the quality and authenticity of the food, wine, and intimate environment. Included in the price are everything from the welcome toast, the appetizers, the pizzas, wines, dessert, and a signed polaroid photo of the evening—a charming keepsake.

Guests appreciate the attention to detail, from the carefully curated wine list to the personal storytelling. It’s a leisurely, unrushed experience, perfect for those who want to connect with Italy’s culinary traditions without the formality of a restaurant setting.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tasting is ideal for travelers who crave genuine, home-style Italian food and enjoy storytelling over a glass of wine. It suits those seeking an intimate, relaxed evening rather than a large-group tour or a structured tasting. Food and wine enthusiasts will appreciate the focus on small, sustainable wineries and regional authenticity.

It’s also a good choice for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers who want to meet like-minded people in a cozy setting. If you’re tired of touristy restaurants and want to experience Italy’s culinary soul in a warm, family-run environment, this tour will resonate with you.

Practical Tips

• The experience is held at Nonna Cleme’s home on Via Principe Amedeo 41, close to key city sights.
• The tour is available in both Italian and English, so language barriers are minimal.
• The group size is limited to 14 guests, so booking in advance is recommended.
• The experience is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all visitors.
• Cancellation is flexible; you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• The two-hour duration is perfect for fitting into a busy sightseeing day without feeling rushed.

FAQs

What is included in the price of $69?
The price covers a welcome toast, the southern Italian appetizer with friselle and Tropea onions, tasting of four traditional pizzas, three glasses of organic vegan wines, homemade dessert, a digestif, still and sparkling water, a reserved seat, storytelling, and a signed Polaroid souvenir.

Can I bring children or do I need to be an adult?
The experience is suitable for all adults, but specific age restrictions aren’t mentioned. Given the intimate and relaxed environment, it’s best suited for adults or older children interested in food and wine.

Is the experience suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
Yes, the wines are vegan, and the menu emphasizes regional, plant-based ingredients like fresh tomatoes, onions, and bread. However, since pizzas traditionally include cheese, it’s advisable to check in advance if vegan options are available.

How long does the experience last?
Approximately two hours, making it a manageable and enjoyable addition to your day in Turin.

Will I learn about Italian wine and food traditions?
Absolutely. The host shares stories and insights about the origins of the dishes and wines, adding depth to the tasting.

Is there a dress code?
No specific dress code is mentioned, but casual, comfortable attire is recommended for a cozy, home-like setting.

Final Thoughts

This tasting experience in Turin offers an authentic glimpse into Italy’s regional flavors, family traditions, and culinary artistry. The small-group environment, hosted by the warm and knowledgeable Nonna Cleme, makes for a memorable evening that combines good food, lively storytelling, and fine organic wines. Whether you’re a curious traveler eager to taste Italy beyond its tourist hotspots or a serious foodie wanting to explore local ingredients and recipes, this experience provides genuine value and a heartfelt atmosphere.

If you’re after a relaxed, intimate dinner that feels like visiting family, this tour is a perfect choice. It’s a lovely way to connect with Italy’s culinary roots while enjoying some of the best local wines in a setting that’s both authentic and charming.

(Note: All details are based on the provided information and reviews. For booking or specific queries, refer to the official activity provider.)