Bra, Temples of Gastronomy

Prepare yourself for an unforgettable journey through one of Italy’s most celebrated regions for its exceptional food and wine culture and its deep connection with the Slow Food movement.

This itinerary will take you to Bra, the town that gave birth to a way of life linked to good, clean, and fair food, and to Pollenzo, home of the University of Gastronomic Sciences, offering you a full immersion not only in flavors but also in knowledge and the history that surrounds them.

Bra in particular—the cradle of Bra Tenero PDO cheese—is worth the trip. Here, every two years, Europe’s largest cheese fair, Cheese, is held.This event, which began as a cheese exhibition, has over the years become a true meeting point for cheesemakers from around the world, where you can dive into Piedmontese specialities beyond just cheese-making arts.
🇫🇷 Cet événement, initi

In short, between historic cafés, freshly whipped cream, an occasional “bicerìn,” and the beauty and history of the Savoy residences, you will forever be captivated by the Slow philosophy, faithfully preserved here through the centuries.

Your day begins in Bra, a town suffused with the aroma of good food and Slow Food philosophy, then immerses you into the gastronomic knowledge of Pollenzo.

📍 Bra: Pasticceria, Storia e Slow Food

After parking in Bra, the first stop is for breakfast pleasure: head to Pasticceria Converso—one of Italy’s best cafés—enjoying an authentic Italian breakfast with cappuccino and brioche.Next, explore the historic center: visit Palazzo Mathis and prepare for a pleasant walk to Villa La Zizzola, offering a lovely panoramic view over the town and the Langhe. Don’t miss the Church of Santa Maria degli Angeli, a little gem.

📍 Osteria Boccondivino e Bottega Sardo & Quaglia

It's lunchtime! Head to Osteria Boccondivino, an iconic venue not only for its excellent cuisine but also because it's where Slow Food was founded by Carlo Petrini. Owned by Slow Food, the osteria celebrates the food and style of the association right where it began. Take the opportunity to learn about the movement and ask for tips on how to contribute to a more sustainable world. Before retrieving your car, stock up on quality local products at the historic shop Sardo & Quaglia—a great example of a traditional store showcasing regional specialities.

📍 Pollenzo: University, Wine and Roman History

After retrieving your car, head to Pollenzo and check in at the Albergo dell’Agenzia (also owned by Slow Food).You thus enter one of Italy’s flagship institutions: the University of Gastronomic Sciences of Pollenzo.Spend time on a knowledgeable guided tasting at the Wine Bank, a unique venue housing thousands of labels of Italy’s finest wines.Visit the University site, where the best professionals in hospitality and new gastronomy are trained.But Pollenzo is also a historical gem: explore the ancient amphitheater, imagining its glorious past, plus the Church of San Vittore Martire and the Royal Castle.Conclude the day with a well-deserved dinner at Ristorante Garden, inside the Albergo dell’Agenzia.

Tips for Day 1

☕ Breakfast:Pasticceria Converso is a must to start your day on a sweet note.
🍝 Lunch: Osteria Boccondivino offers an unforgettable culinary and cultural experience.
🍷 Tasting: The Wine Bank in Pollenzo is a unique opportunity for enthusiasts and the curious.
🍽️ Dinner: Ristorante Garden in Pollenzo offers a great gastronomic conclusion to the day.