Albergo Ristorante Viaggiatori In Novi ligure

We did not stay at this hotel. The review only concerns the attached restaurant. With a group of friends on a day trip, our first time in this corner of deep Piedmont, steeped in the history and culture of the ancient maritime republic of Genoa. It was an autumn day with still-pleasant sunshine and just the right light to admire the magnificent colors of the vineyards and woods of this corner of paradise. We set off from Gavi, home of the white wine, an absolute excellence in Italy and around the world. We sampled amaretti biscuits, made a purchase from the authentic artisan ravioli shop, a glass of Gavi sparkling wine, aged 36 months on selected yeasts, and a refreshing nectar from the white soils of the historic Gavi cellar. Then we drove along the beautiful panoramic road through vineyards and woods that led to Novi Ligure, admiring the stunning colors of the season. The historic Viaggiatori restaurant awaits us, located on the first floor of the hotel of the same name. Here, the gracious lady and her professional staff have prepared the traditional menu, offering the best of both classic versions of the traditional ravioli. A light appetizer of fried bread accompanies a delicious raw ham, followed by the fantastic ravioli, literally melting on the palate with its filling, a tribute to authentic cuisine based on simplicity, expert craftsmanship, and local, seasonal produce. Lightly seasoned with butter flavored with herbs, it can be further enhanced with grated Parmesan cheese upon request. Then, a taste of the local ravioli, served without sauce to further enhance its delicacy and quality, as per ancient tradition, with the option of adding red wine for a perfect pairing. We simply can't resist this delicacy, and a spoon is the perfect weapon to enjoy it to the fullest. Truly a top-notch pairing, even for us gourmets of the Langhe and Roero, who thought we were unique and unrivaled in this specialty. A homemade tiramisu of rare elegance to finish with a great coffee. We drank excellently, a fresh Barbera to start with and a fuller-bodied one to follow. This balanced lunch, classy in its simplicity, light and exceptional in quality, will stay with us for a long time, along with the lovely atmosphere of conviviality and joy with the local friends who organized and shared the day with us. Thanks and applause to the talented owner and the wonderful, kind, and professional kitchen and dining room staff. My plan is to return soon to enjoy these specialties again with other friends, and I'm curious to try the main courses at this elegant, historic restaurant in our beloved Piedmont.

Let's just say that entering a room and having to leave it open all night because of the strong smell of smoke... isn't ideal.