Nazionale
Vernante, Italy
ā1 Star
The Experience
From Michelin Guide
Situated in the hotel of the same name in a typical mountain-style property, this elegant restaurant offers two welcoming dining rooms with open fireplaces and a profusion of wood, where friendly service adds to the warm atmosphere. Although meat dishes tend to dominate on the menu, a greater focus on vegetables has developed over the years, largely thanks to the three kitchen gardens (two of which are owned by the restaurant) which supply these vegetables. Choose between two tasting menus (one traditional, the other more contemporary in style) and a good Ć la carte selection. We particularly enjoyed the ābottoniā with tumin del Mel (a fresh cheese that is a symbol of the Varaita valley), lamb gravy and cavolo nero. Thereās also now a new bistro in the old bar which serves lighter yet equally interesting dishes.
Unique Things
From Visitor Experiences
1. Integration of Three Kitchen Gardens for Vegetable Supply
Nazionale in Vernante uniquely emphasizes vegetables in its menu, a shift that has developed over the years thanks to its three kitchen gardens, two of which are owned by the restaurant. These gardens supply fresh vegetables that enhance the dishes, reflecting a commitment to freshness and local sourcing that complements the predominantly meat-focused menu.
2. Location and Ambiance in a Mountain-Style Hotel with Open Fireplaces
The restaurant is situated within a hotel of the same name, housed in a typical mountain-style property. It features two welcoming dining rooms with open fireplaces and abundant wood, creating a warm, elegant atmosphere that blends tradition with modern comfort. This setting contributes significantly to the dining experience, offering a cozy yet refined environment.
3. Dual Tasting Menus Balancing Tradition and Contemporary Style
Nazionale offers two distinct tasting menus: one traditional and the other more contemporary. This dual approach allows guests to experience a culinary journey that respects the gastronomic heritage of the region while also embracing innovation and creativity by the starred chef Fabio Ingallinera.
Ingredient Stars
From Visitor Experiences
The most honored or signature ingredients at the Michelin-starred restaurant Nazionale in Vernante are:
Tumin del Mel: A fresh cheese that is a symbol of the Varaita valley, prominently featured in the signature dish ābottoniā served with lamb gravy and cavolo nero. This cheese represents the local dairy tradition and adds a unique regional flavor to the dish.
Lamb: Used in the lamb gravy accompanying the ābottoni,ā lamb is a key ingredient reflecting the mountain and country cooking style of the region, providing rich and hearty flavors typical of Piemonte cuisine.
Cavolo Nero: Also known as black kale, this vegetable is part of the ābottoniā dish, showcasing the restaurantās focus on vegetables sourced from their own kitchen gardens, emphasizing freshness and seasonality.
White Truffles: While not explicitly stated as a signature at Nazionale, white truffles are a typical prized ingredient in Vernante and the surrounding Piemonte region, often featured in local dishes such as Tajarin al Tartufo, a delicate handmade pasta with truffle sauce, highlighting the regionās culinary heritage.
Barolo Wine: Used in the slow-cooked beef dish Brasato al Barolo, this wine is a prestigious local product that imparts deep, complex flavors, connecting the cuisine to Piemonteās renowned wine tradition.
These ingredients reflect Nazionaleās commitment to local, seasonal produce and traditional recipes elevated with modern culinary techniques, creating a distinctive dining experience rooted in the mountain terroir of Vernante.