Caffe San Carlo

Caffe San Carlo is a grand historic cafe on Piazza San Carlo, the elegant arcaded square at the heart of Turin, opened in 1822 and long a gathering place for the city's intellectuals and patriots during the Risorgimento. It is among the most opulent of Turin's storied cafes, famed for a sumptuous main hall crowned by an enormous gilt-and-crystal chandelier, frescoed ceilings, marble and mirrored walls that recall the city's role as the first capital of unified Italy. The cafe serves the full repertoire of a Piemontese caffe storico: espresso and cappuccino, pastries, gianduiotto chocolates and light meals and aperitivi taken beneath the chandelier or under the porticoes facing the square. The mood is refined and unhurried, suited to a leisurely coffee break or an aperitivo rather than a quick standing espresso, and the setting alone justifies a visit for anyone interested in Turin's history. Service follows the traditional cafe model, with seated table service in the historic rooms. Prices reflect the grandeur and the prime location on Piazza San Carlo, higher than a neighbourhood bar but reasonable for the experience. It generally operates on a walk-in basis throughout the day, so there is no need to book for a coffee, though larger groups may wish to call ahead. Its position on Piazza San Carlo places it among the city's finest squares, ideal to combine with a wider stroll through central Turin.