Favourite bar of the Savoy family according to a travel guide.
Caffe Torino is a historic cafe at Piazza San Carlo 204 in Turin, in Italy's Piedmont region, on the main arcaded square often called the city's drawing room. The cafe has been open since 1903 and is categorised here as a historic cafe in the moderate price tier. A travel guide describes it as the favourite bar of the Savoy family, the royal house that ruled Piedmont and later Italy, which gives the venue a link to the city's court history. Piazza San Carlo itself is among the most photographed squares in Turin, framed by twin churches and a central equestrian statue.
The offer is coffee and aperitivo. An espresso at the counter is the quickest way to experience the place, while the early-evening aperitivo, usually a vermouth or a glass of wine with small snacks, suits a longer stay. Specific signature dishes and a drinks list were not verified, and the entries for coffee and aperitivo should be taken as the broad categories of the menu. In front of the cafe, a bull set into the pavement is a well-known local tradition: visitors step on or rub it for luck, and the spot is often busy with onlookers.
The atmosphere is grand and traditional, and the cafe benefits from its setting on one of the city's best squares for people-watching, with outdoor tables in suitable weather. The noise level is moderate to lively at aperitivo time. There is no dress code, though the surroundings reward smart-casual dress. Tourist foot traffic is heavy at midday and in the early evening.
Opening hours were not confirmed, so visitors should check on site. Reservations are not typically taken and the cafe works on a walk-in basis. Prices in a prime-square cafe tend to be higher for table service than at the bar, and outdoor tables usually carry the highest charge, so standing at the counter is the budget option. No official website or phone number was confirmed for this entry, so no contact details are given here. Piazza San Carlo is close to the Egyptian Museum and the Via Roma shopping street.
| Price | $$ |
|---|---|
| Hours | Hours not confirmed; check on site |
| Reservations | Walk-in |
| Address | Piazza San Carlo 204, 10121 Torino |
Signature dishes
- Coffee
- Aperitivo
Good to know
- Known for
- Open since 1903 on the main arcaded square
Location
Piazza San Carlo 204, 10121 Torino
45.0679, 7.6827 View on map
Highlights
- Open since 1903 on Piazza San Carlo
- Described as a favourite bar of the Savoy family
- Coffee and aperitivo under the arcades
- Bull set in the pavement outside, a local good-luck tradition
Tips for visiting
- Walk-in only; no reservation is normally taken.
- Counter service costs less than table service, and outdoor tables usually cost the most.
- Early-evening aperitivo is the liveliest and most atmospheric time.
- Hours are unconfirmed, so check on site before planning around them.
When to visit
Early evening for aperitivo, or mid-morning on a weekday for a quieter coffee.
Accessibility
Accessibility details were not verified. The cafe is on a large flat pedestrian square, but visitors with mobility needs should check the entrance and indoor seating on arrival.
Frequently asked questions
When did Caffe Torino open?
In 1903, on Piazza San Carlo.
Who is said to have favoured it?
A travel guide describes it as the favourite bar of the Savoy family.
What does it serve?
Coffee and aperitivo.
Are opening hours confirmed?
No. Hours were not confirmed and should be checked on site.