Trattoria Paolino

Imagine an old-style sign, a rustic atmosphere, a menu that fully reflects tradition and a type of host that is ever rarer: a chef who is passionate about food and drink, an expert on his local land and its products, and someone with the ability to engage each and every guest in conversation for at least a minute or two. We are at the Trattoria Paolino, run by Paolo Talarico and his efficient staff, in the heart of Vercelli.

These few elements make simplicity the secret for creating a relaxed, familiar atmosphere where it feels like you know almost everyone. It is an atmosphere that perfectly reflects Paolo and his cuisine, which is not at all pretentious, where the focus is on substance: good food. There are very few dishes – just enough to still be spoiled for choice – including timeless classics like bagna caoda, vitello tonnato, battuta or tagliata di fassona, agnolotti del plin, trippa alla parmigiana, panissa vercellese, guancia di maialino and, obviously, rice.

Located in the heart of the rice fields, there’s always at least one risotto on the menu at Paolino, and each one is better than the next. From appetizers to desserts, it is a nonstop delight for the taste buds, with authentic flavors, perfectly cooked dishes and textures that remind us how special our country, local areas and typical products are. End your dinner with a soft hazelnut cake, a semifreddo or a creme brulèe, but you absolutely must try the custard gelato and frozen zabaglione: amazing!

Whenever you are in the mood for a typical trattoria, which perfectly captures that idea of the no-frills Italian trattoria, and features fantastic food, dishes that are 90% homemade and a bill that is absolutely fair, go see Paolino. You won’t regret it. A restaurant that should be fully enjoyed, an excursion that allows you to enter into more of a country rhythm, a Sunday outside of the city to make the most of the first warm sun and days that are a little longer, spent around the table.

At Paolino, there’s an enjoyable atmosphere, and you eat and drink very well. No frills but full of substance. Thank you Paolo!