€€Contemporary, Italian Contemporary
This restaurant in the heart of the town serves excellent contemporary cuisine (meat and fish, plus a few vegetarian options). The menu features dishes such as fregola sarda (a type of couscous) with tomato, buffalo mozzarella, friggitelli peppers and fried capers, with a personalised twist added by talented owner-chef Matteo Ridoni.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.5/5 · 80 reviews
La RiMa in Novara offers contemporary Italian cuisine. Reviews highlight high food quality, friendly service, and a refined atmosphere, with some comparing it to Michelin-starred establishments. However, criticisms point to inconsistent meal pacing, overly complex dishes that mask flavors, and occasional cooking errors in main courses like rabbit and duck. Some guests also noted minor service details, such as inappropriate wine glasses. While many praise the chef's creativity and local ingredients, others find the execution uneven, suggesting a mixed experience regarding flavor balance and consistency.
Suitable for diners seeking refined contemporary Italian cuisine who can tolerate occasional inconsistencies.
€€Country cooking, Contemporary
The menu at this restaurant features meat and seasonal ingredients served in personalised recipes and contemporary-style dishes. There are also three tasting menus: the main one consists of eight courses prepared by the talented chef. The restaurant brings to mind a modern bistro with its warm ambience and attentive service.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.3/5 · 80 reviews
Tre Scalini in Novara offers a blend of country and contemporary cuisine. Reviews frequently praise the high quality of ingredients, refined dishes, and knowledgeable, friendly service, creating a welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant occasionally hosts themed dinners, such as Spanish nights featuring tapas. However, value is a mixed point; some guests find prices exorbitant relative to portions, particularly under Michelin scrutiny, with complaints about salty food and slow pacing. While the historic venue is charming, some note dated furnishings. Service is generally excellent, though occasional lapses in hygiene for shared dishes were reported. Food quality stands out, but cost-effectiveness varies significantly among diners.
Suitable for diners prioritizing ingredient quality and service over strict value-for-money; those sensitive to price may prefer alternatives.
€€Regional Cuisine, Italian Contemporary
Located in the heart of the historic center, this restaurant is distinguished by its warmly welcoming and attentive management. The cuisine alternates between fish and meat dishes, prepared with a personal touch yet still rooted in tradition. Among the desserts, highlights include the indulgent bunet or zabaione served with canestrelli cookies.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.3/5 · 80 reviews
Osteria del Borgo in Galliate offers contemporary Italian regional cuisine with an average rating of 4.3/5. Food quality is generally praised, with specific mentions of seared tuna, duck breast, and porcini dishes, though some guests found portions small or other items disappointing. Service is often described as attentive and friendly, but negative reviews cite wine availability issues and billing errors. The atmosphere is intimate and romantic, suitable for couples, although some find the decor simple. Value perceptions vary; while many appreciate the quality-to-price ratio, others consider the costs modestly high relative to expectations.
Ideal for diners seeking refined regional cuisine in an intimate setting; verify wine availability in advance.
€€Classic Cuisine
Warm colours such as teal and ochre give this restaurant a cosy and welcoming ambience. The cuisine here is authentic and traditional in style, with dishes based on top-quality local ingredients accompanied by a choice of regional wines. There’s also an outdoor area for summer dining.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.1/5 · 80 reviews
Cravero - Osteria Contemporanea in Caltignaga specializes in classic Piedmontese cuisine. Reviews highlight high-quality ingredients and skilled preparation, particularly praising seafood risotto, traditional Novara menus, and Paniscia Day specialties, noting the absence of flavor enhancers. However, some guests report inconsistent service, slow pacing, and a less welcoming atmosphere following renovations. Opinions on value vary; while some find prices adequate, others criticize small portions relative to cost. This establishment suits diners seeking authentic regional flavors, though patience regarding service efficiency is advisable.
Suitable for diners seeking authentic Piedmontese flavors who can tolerate service inconsistencies.