UNIVERSO

The entrance is simple, the furnishings are elegant, cloaked in an antique allure. Ristorante Universo is one of those places that has maintained the same standard of quality, paying tribute to Piedmont cuisine. You are in Vignale, one of the most beautiful landscapes of Monferrato, a few steps from Palazzo Callori. You will be greeted with kindness and good manners, the service is flawless. Lots of starters (€11): delicate veal in tuna sauce, battered sage leaf, cured meats, raw meat and, in season, aubergine carpaccio, without forgetting the leek and asparagus tart with Castelmagno. The first courses (€6) tell the great story of Monferrato cuisine: agnolotti with meat sauce, alongside risotto Arneis or with Castelmagno. The main courses (€8) are filling and delicious, and brought to the table on a trolley; you start with meat that is a symbol of the territory, rabbit with potatoes, then roasts, braised meats and a shank which you will find very difficult to forget. Simple and delicious traditional desserts, especially the bonet. Tasting menu: €32. A word of advice: spring and summer are also good times to come, when you can enjoy, even more, the fantastic view of the hills from the garden terrace. The journey alone is well worth it.