Balma Meris In Valdieri

04/06/2026: We were sent to have lunch here by Tiziano from Ant Novello and I must say, I have no clue how this place can end up with 4.2 stars. I have had lots of good food in my life, but this place really stands out. I had the veal battuta and Nas-Cëtta by wine and it paired so well. My partner had the artichoke and it blew her away. As main I had the plin with sage butter, you cannot go wrong with that. We finished up with the pannacotta and an espresso. Fabulous views and funky music, and delightful service. A highlight and one of the many steps along the way of falling in love with Piemonte.

10/05/2026: Furnishings: The kind you find on every "Dream Places in Piedmont" reel. Living wood, warm lighting, bottles lined up like soldiers, and that grandmother's cupboard that everyone photographs while pretending to be distracted. Instagrammable? Yes. But this time, the food is more photogenic than the decor. Food: Short menu = cuisine that knows what it's doing. The veal with tuna sauce melts before you can say, "But the original recipe...". The tajarin with sausage ragù is illegal in seven regions: a portion that seems timid, but then you realize it's a strategy because you'll have to leave room for the main course. The duck fell off the spoon before you even touched it. Dessert? Bunet. If you're not moved, check your pulse. Want to spend the right amount? He brings you the perfect label without making you feel like you're being punished. Got questions? He answers with three adjectives and an anecdote, no long-winded words. Water always full, bread always warm, just the right amount of time between courses to work off the happiness. A much-quoted place, yes. But this time the hype is right. You go for the view, you applaud the decor, you fall in love with the food and service. I'll definitely be back. Pina