CASCINA MADONNA

Situated in the grounds of a 17th-century estate, Cascina Madonna is one of the most sought-after agritourism establishments in the Asti area (for this reason, it's best to book well in advance). Its success lies in a blend of excellent cuisine, never overdone in portions or seasonings, and a professional yet friendly welcome.

Once seated in the beautiful exposed-brick dining rooms, guests are treated to sgonfiotti (a type of pasta) accompanied by homemade cured meats, followed by chicken breast with balsamic-glazed peppers, rabbit salad in a Parmesan wafer, and grilled vegetable puff pastry. For starters, there are two-tone tortelli with asparagus and risotto with fine herbs and lemon or with Barbera reduction. The menu continues with rosemary-wrapped capon, roast rabbit, or braised beef in Barolo, before finishing with hazelnut mini-profiteroles and blueberry Bavarian cream with limoncello mousse. There's no à la carte menu, only a fixed-price menu (35 euros) that includes wine. Ideal for families and groups of friends, it also has five comfortable rooms for those arriving from out of town.