italian mountains | Lisa V. Proulx, Author/Speaker

Tucked away in the mountains of Gubbio, Italy is a gem that many are not aware exists. Il Turista is a charming and beautiful restaurant just minutes away from a 12^th century castle hotel with views that take your breath away. Owned by Cosimo and Maria Vento, Il Turista is a family ristorante that makes one feel welcome the moment they walk through the door. Cosimo, a charming and handsome Italian greets his guests with a warm smile, a hearty laugh, and a story about his writing and poetry.

The walls are covered in old paintings, family photos, and autographed 8 x 10’s of celebrities who have eaten there. This makes Cosimo very proud.

Cosimo entertaining guests with his charming stories.

His lovely wife Maria cooks every meal and creates each dish with a loving hand that only an Italian mother could do. Their handsome son Gaudio comes to each table and tells you in a delightful Italian accent that each dish is made fresh to order and Mama is proud to do so.

The food is worth the wait. Not only can you taste the fresh Italian ingredients, you can taste the atmosphere of the surrounding mountains, and you can taste the love that each dish contains.

The pasta is light, delicious, not overwhelming, and the portions are just right. The Crescia which is a traditional “sandwich” of Umbria is one pearl on the menu, and dishes such as pasta with arrabbiata sauce and pasta con funghi, grilled vegetables stuffed with breadcrumbs and grilled meats bring your dining experience to life. The food is fresh and served with delicious flat bread from Urbino. Top it off with wine, espresso, and dessert to create a wonderful dining experience.

Speaking of dessert, the chocolate pie is unlike anything you have ever eaten. Light, flaky, buttery crust bursting at the seams with the most delectable chocolate filling. To say it is heaven would be an understatement.

There is also a comfy couch off to the side that Cosimo will offer to you so you can rest after eating. His sincerity is endearing.

Outside you will find ample parking and don’t be surprised if you find yourself in awe of the view. In the distance are mountains that in the winter are snow-capped and the medieval town of Gubbio is only minutes away with quaint shops and more Italian exquisiteness.

If you are looking for a restaurant that is off the beaten path and not your average fast food chain, you will be pleasantly surprised by Il Turista. With delicious food, warm hospitality, and love from a charming Italian family, at Il Turista, you are family and you are welcome.

Me, with Gaudio Vento, and his parents, Maria and Cosimo.

The Vento Family

Roberto, Cosimo, Rossella, Helen, Gaudio, and Maria

Average prices: $8 – $21

Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean, Barbecue

Restaurant features: Highchairs Available, Takeout, Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Waitstaff, Parking Available, Free Off-Street Parking, Television, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Wine and Beer, Accepts American Express, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Digital Payments, Free Wifi

Find them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ilturistagubbio/

Trip Advisors reviews: https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g187907-d3948837-r445398202-Il_Turista-Perugia_Province_of_Perugia_Umbria.html

Received the Award of Excellence!

About Gubbio: Gubbio is in Umbria, Italy, 40 km NE of Perugia and about 65 km S of Urbino in the neighboring region of Le Marche, Italy. The town is beautifully located on the lower slopes of Mt. Ingino. Gubbio is an extremely ancient town mentioned in the famous Eugubine Tablets and was in the past the capital of Umbria.