Café Al Bicerin

"Nestled in Piazza della Consolata, Caffè Al Bicerin feels like stepping into a postcard from another era. Opened in 1763, this tiny, wood-paneled café has an intimacy and warmth that instantly pulls you in. The star here is the Bicerin, a luxurious mix of espresso, velvety chocolate, and whipped cream. Served in a glass, it’s as much an experience as it is a drink—a comforting indulgence that’s been perfected over centuries. Sipping it by the marble-topped tables feels like joining the countless writers, artists, and thinkers who have gathered here through the years. Al Bicerin also holds a special place in social history. At a time when women were rarely seen in public bars, this café welcomed them warmly, offering a water-and-lemon drink as an alternative to stronger fare. It became a safe haven for women, a radical idea at the time. Remarkably, the café was managed exclusively by women for centuries, until only recently when a man took over—a poignant reminder of its trailblazing past. The café was also a favorite haunt of Camillo Benso di Cavour, one of Italy’s great unifiers. You can almost imagine him seated at one of the marble-topped tables, deep in thought, as the city bustled outside. Caffè Al Bicerin isn’t just a place to stop for a drink—it’s a moment in time, a ritual, and a must for anyone looking to connect with Turin’s rich past."

"This cozy, wood-panelled café with antique furniture overlooking the Sanctuary of the Consolata is the place where to taste the original "bicerin", their world-renowned drink of hot chocolate, coffee and cream. Right! The historic Turinese drink was invented in this establishment, which has been named after it ever since and jealously guards the original recipe, which is handed down from generation to generation. The secret to savouring the true bicerin is to avoid mixing it, thereby allowing the various ingredients to come together directly on the palate, with their different densities, temperatures and tastes. In addition you can also try their traditional dark hot chocolate slow-cooked in special copper pots. "

"First opened in 1763! Ever since the second generation it’s been entirely female managed and owned. [learn more with my Coffee in Turin tour!] They are the inventors of the famous Bicerin- a hot drink with a layer of espresso, hot chocolate and heavy cream 😋 Can’t miss one on your trip! If you have a real sweet tooth I recommend getting the full breakfast tasting with cookies and cakes. But it can be quite filling!"