Located on a large piazza in Leini, just outside Torino, this cafe' has an inviting outdoor, covered terrace. Inside, across from the bar are a few small tables and in the back is a dining room. Leini is not a tourist destination, and I was the only 'non-Italian' in the place. (Maybe in the town!) Using what little Italian I have was needed. That being said, the staff were excellent; friendly and helpful. There is no menu here. Just tell the waitress what you would like and she'll tell you the options. I asked for 'pasta' without 'meat' and the waitress told me my 'primi' options. I selected the mushroom risotto and ordered a bottle of water. She asked if I would like a 'secondo', but today I declined. This little town seems to close up shop between noon and 12:30 and a few locals were having lunch in this caffe', both inside and out. There appeared to be three staff members covering the dining areas. My bottle of water came out in good time and the wait for the risotto was long, but not excessively so, which gave me hope that the risotto would be fresh, not microwaved. A bowl of grated cheese was placed on the table and the risotto came out hot and creamy. I tried it first without the cheese, and it was a little salty for my personal taste, but not overly so and I think for most people it would have been fine. I did add the cheese and it really perked up the dish. The mushrooms were cooked well and there were a couple of varieties. The rice was well cooked, not at all 'mushy' and not at all 'crunchy'. Just a nice 'chew'. I ordered an after dinner coffee which was good and strong. From watching other customers, and as is customary, I went to the cashier to pay when I was done. My experience here was very positive. I can't say the food is exceptional, but it was certainly good and the staff are all very nice with lots of locals coming in to chat. Small town life! Love it. read more

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