Let's end this year with a big Cenone!

As the year ends, I wanted to write something meaningful and business-like, yet with a "north star" feeling and a dash of compassion. Last year, we decided to celebrate the end of the year in Italy. Cascina Fossata came to mind.

Torino, or Turin, is known for many things: its industrial heritage, being home to Juventus, a northern culinary paradise, the Savoy dynasty, rich history, cinema, home to Europe's oldest car factory (Fiat), and a touch of mysticism.

I arrived at the train station Trieste Centrale - at 5 a.m. Italian cities in the early hours are silent and incredibly beautiful. It was freezing, the cafeteria was closed, and a young Romanian vagabond and I stood in front of the glass doors, waiting for a cappuccino.

"Un cappuccino e un espresso, per favore," I said as soon as we were allowed in. It had been a long time since I lived and worked in Italy—perhaps too long. The vagabond was penniless, so there was no question about not buying him an Italian coffee as well.

I know that these days, it’s not common to treat others or speak with strangers, but a coffee works wonders.

I took the train from Trieste to Torino. I was surprised by how packed it was, especially for this time of year. Like anywhere else, Italy experiences its fair share of delayed trains. There I was, chatting in Italian, lamenting the delays, discussing politics, and listening to suggestions about the beautiful cities, museums and restaurants as we passed through Venice, a popular holiday destination for the Clooneys and other celebrities, and other stunning cities. The caffè on the train was delicious, taking me back to my university years and reminding me why I studied Italian when I was 19. It was my love for the feeling you get on an adventure in Italy—feeling alive, beautiful, and in love with the sound of language.

A few months prior to my journey, I was googling and checking Booking.com , I came across Cascina Fossata . Tucked away in a less prominent corner of Torino, this hotel is an innovative example of transformation. What was once a monastery has been beautifully repurposed into a hotel and restaurant, including Osteria 12 Arcate, a supermarket and residential apartments. This development is an example of how modern cities can evolve sustainably, adapting to changing environments while preserving history. From an architectural standpoint, it’s a must-see for anyone interested in innovative urban development.

We considered staying out in the streets celebrating the New Year until I learned about Osteria 12 Arcate and their "Cenone!" For those unfamiliar, Cenone di Capodanno is the Italian tradition of celebrating New Year’s Eve with a festive meal.

Back to basics of Italy's culinary lessons: Piemonte and its capital, Turin (Torino), located in the northwest of Italy, is renowned for its rich culinary tradition, shaped by its diverse landscapes, from the Alps to the rolling hills of the Langhe. The region is famous for its truffles, especially the prized white truffles of Alba, Barolo wine, and robust cheeses like Castelmagno. Its cuisine features hearty, flavorful dishes such as agnolotti (stuffed pasta), bagna cauda (a warm garlic and anchovy dip), and brasato al Barolo (beef braised in Barolo wine). Piemonte is also the birthplace of the Slow Food Movement, which advocates for sustainable, local food practices, ensuring that traditional recipes are preserved. With its decadent desserts like Gianduiotto chocolate and Torta di Nocciole.

A Bicerin is a traditional Italian drink from Torino, consisting of layers of espresso, drinking chocolate, and milk. It’s typically served in a small glass. The drink has a rich history dating back to the 18th century and remains a beloved regional speciality. It’s an acquired taste—I tried it, but I prefer to stick with a cappuccino.

What makes Osteria 12 Arcate so special?

This is more than just a restaurant. It’s a place where prominent Italian chefs are truly making a difference by supporting young people from disadvantaged backgrounds and helping them build a future. Our waiter, Said, a kind young man from far away, had only been in Italy for a year but already spoke Italian fluently and had found steady employment at the restaurant—a true testament to the power of opportunity and hard work. We can all make a place better by engaging as humans. It goes both ways, and it works if everyone respects each other.

The cuisine at Osteria 12 Arcate reflects the best of traditional, simple, and flavorful Italian dishes. The menu celebrates seasonal produce and local ingredients, creating an authentic taste of Piemonte.

Cenone di Capodanno is not just a meal—it’s an experience. They also prioritise sustainability, ensuring every meal aligns with the spirit of Cascina Fosata. We honestly didn’t know what to expect, but the food kept coming—each dish was more delicious than the last. Sometimes, I call this experience a "culinary nirvana," and it only happens to me when I’m in Italy.

Here’s the menu from last year. The prices are reasonable, and the food is so incredible that it will make you forget all your worries, if only for an evening. It’s worth it—I couldn’t recommend it more!

However, Torino isn’t just about food; it has an incredible art and architectural scene, too. Making reservations in advance is wise, as things tend to get booked quickly.

If you're visiting Torino, the?National Museum of Cinema in Mole Antonelliana?and the?Lavazza Museum are two must-see attractions, among many more.

In the spirit of this, I wish you a New Year as rich and delightful as an authentic Italian cenone! If you forgot how feeling great feels, book a meal at Osteria 12 Arcate!

Buon Appetito! Enjoy the feast of 2025!

Interested? Click the links below to find out more.

Linkedin - like it: https://www.dhirubhai.net/showcase/cascina-fossata/about/

Osteria Arcate: https://www.facebook.com/Osteria12Arcate

Bookings: https://www.cascinafossata.it/ristorante/

The best coffee in Torino is served at the train station: Mignon Eccellenze Napoletane, https://mignonitaly.com/stores/pasticceria-bistrot-torino/

#Osteria12Arcate, #SustainableDining, #CulinaryNirvana, #MadeInPiedmont, #SlowFoodMovement, #NewYearsEve2024