San Marco

The story

San Marco | Traditional Piedmontese Restaurant in Canelli, Italy

A Canelli Institution

For over sixty-five years, San Marco has been a fixture in Canelli, a town in the heart of the Asti wine region. The restaurant describes itself as a "historical landmark of the Asti area," a place where the kitchen is firmly rooted in the territory. The cooking is classic Piedmontese, executed with precision and a respect for local ingredients.

The Michelin Recognition

The Michelin Guide describes San Marco as "a historic restaurant in the Asti area distinguished by its local cuisine, impeccable service, and warm welcome." This recognition, which earned the restaurant a Michelin Recommended status, speaks to the consistency and quality that has kept guests returning for decades. The restaurant’s own words echo this, pointing to "65 years of experience" as the foundation of its reputation.

The Menu: Piedmont on a Plate

The menu is a celebration of Piedmontese produce. Starters include a classic vitello tonnato with roasted bell pepper stuffed the Astigiana way, and a battuta al coltello of raw Fassona beef – a prized local breed – topped with a fondant egg yolk. Pasta is handmade: agnolottini dal "plin" with butter and sage, and tajarin "40 tuorli" (40-yolk taglierini) with a creamy pea, squid, and shrimp sauce.

Main courses feature the hearty traditions of the region. There is a slow-braised veal stew in Barbaresco wine with polenta, a roasted Roccaverano kid goat with thyme potatoes, and a lacquered pork belly with honey and spiced apple. For the truly dedicated, the "Grande Bollito Piemontese" is a multi-course affair centered on a classic mixed boil of beef, cotechino, and hen, served with a full array of traditional sauces.

The kitchen also highlights seasonal ingredients, notably the white truffle of Alba and Monferrato, which can be shaved over several dishes when in season.