Years ago, as an au pair in Piedmont, I sorely disappointed my host family by telling them that I was not a coffee-drinker. They simply could not fathom this news and continuously offered me cups of coffee throughout that summer with them. Politely, I would decline and politely, the would persist in asking.
Later in the summer, on a day off for the mother of the family, the two of us took the train to Turin for the day – a truly perfect spot for a day-trip if you have found a vacation rental in Piedmont. I immediately fell in love with the large piazze, elegant buildings, wonderful museums, ancient ruins, and charming little cafes of the city. And just before we went to get our train home, I was dragged into the famous Caffè al Bicerin for one last attempt to sway me when it came to coffee by introducing me to the Bicerin.
The Bicerin is another absolute must for those who book a villa in Piedmont and are spending any time in Turin, especially those who are actual coffee fans. A traditional drink native to Turin and named for the Piedmontese word for, “little glass,” the Bicerin is a local favourite.
Invented in the 18th century, likely in the Caffè al Bicerin itself or the Caffė Fiorio, it is composed of espresso, hot chocolate, and milk that is served layered in a small glass. And though I continue to be unswayed by coffee, it was a more pleasant sort for a person with a sweet tooth like myself.
While my Italian family were deeply disappointed not to have made a seasoned coffee-drinker out of me on that occasion, any coffee-lover who likes to try local specialities or those who particularly like sweet coffees should definitely give a Bicerin a try as it is a perfect pick-me-up after a day of exploring the delightful city of Turin while on holiday in Piedmont!
