Al Cortese In Novi ligure

The following refers to the New Year's Eve dinner/event. I'll start by saying that I'm not a huge fan of dinners with music, and although there was a reference to it on the website, I didn't pay enough attention to the overall structure of the event. Let's start with the location, which is simply enchanting: Villa Pomela is a former noble residence, once a cultural center of its time. Splendid rooms with expertly renovated stucco and wood paneling remain, a perfect setting for a festive dinner. Regarding the cuisine, the menu was good, albeit with its ups and downs. Some pairings didn't convince me (the basil liqueur éclair remains a mystery to me), while the saffron rice with Gavi, porcini mushrooms, and hazelnuts was perhaps too strong. Overall, a good dinner, although a little pricey in my opinion. What left me most perplexed was the management of the evening: the talented artist who entertained the guests was singing at a volume that was decidedly too loud. The sound system was inadequate for the setting, and conversation at the table was difficult. Despite reporting the issue and temporarily lowering the volume, the problem recurred. Personal opinion: disco music in a place of this type—and with a clientele predominantly over 50—clashed with the location and the overall experience, appearing inappropriate for the setting. A final positive note for the dining room service: the staff was excellent, discreet, and helpful, and the commitment of the young people (probably students from the Novi hotel school) was also commendable.

A fantastic, atmospheric place with excellent cuisine and service. It's located in a hotel converted from an old estate and decorated in a classic style. I managed to get in after a day of shopping without an appointment, and it turned out to be a wonderful evening.

I had attended a New Year's Eve dinner hosted by the president of a large company where I worked many years ago. I was enchanted by the charm of the venue and promised myself I would return. That evening, there were so many of us; I think they had booked practically the entire restaurant for the occasion. This time, however, it was completely private, just my wife and I, and it was with great joy that I realized that time has passed, but the class remains.