La Piola

Top choice in Alba


Part of the Ceretto family's small empire, La Piola offers a faithful menu of traditional Piedmontese dishes, but at the same time manages to be stylish, modern and relaxed (let's put it down to sprezzatura – the Italian art of studied nonchalance).The kitchen is overseen by one of Italy's most respected chefs, Enrico Crippa, from gastronomic Piazza Duomo upstairs.

Expect wonderful produce – the vegetables and herbs all come from the Cerettos' own garden – and technique, along with a sense-grabbing flair. Engaged young staff and great contemporary artwork (including specially commissioned 'show' plates) make the experience a special one. Don't miss their version of vitello tonnato (sliced cold veal and tuna sauce) and bonet (chocolate pudding): both the apotheosis of their respective genres.