Dolce Stil Novo: Alfredo Russo’s Michelin-Starred Restaurant at the Royal Palace of Venaria, Piedmont

The only Michelin-starred restaurant housed within a royal palace, Dolce Stil Novo is where history, elegance, and haute cuisine come together in an experience like no other. Located atop the Royal Palace of Venaria, just above the Diana Gallery and a step below the sky, this celebrated restaurant offers sweeping views of the Gardens, the Fishpond, the Court of Honor, and the Stag Fountain. More than just a dining destination, Dolce Stil Novo is a journey through time where the grandeur of the past meets the creativity of contemporary Italian gastronomy.

Recognized as one of the most renowned restaurants in Italy, Dolce Stil Novo has been featured at the top of gastronomic guides for years, earning a Michelin star for its excellence. At the helm is Chef Alfredo Russo, an undisputed talent in haute cuisine both in Italy and abroad. His visionary approach to Italian flavors has not only won him accolades but also the distinguished title of Knight of the Order "Al Merito della Repubblica Italiana" for his skills and decades of dedication to culinary artistry. Under his guidance, the restaurant welcomes both visitors to the exhibitions and shows at the Reggia as well as external guests, offering everyone the opportunity to experience a true king's cuisine.

The restaurant is housed in the South-East Tower, originally designed by Michelangelo Garove in the French pavilion-système style, once home to the ladies-in-waiting of the Savoy princesses. Following a meticulous restoration by the Superintendence for Architectural Heritage and Landscape of Piedmont, architects Max and Lella Vignelli reimagined the space with a modern take on 18th-century neoclassicism, balancing historical grandeur with an elegant, minimalist aesthetic. The concept, developed by Carlo and Aurora Fucini, creates a timeless atmosphere, one that transcends centuries yet feels contemporary, a perfect reflection of the cuisine itself.

This philosophy is embodied in Chef Alfredo Russo’s culinary approach, deeply rooted in Italian tradition, yet innovative and personal. His dishes are designed to evoke a collective memory of taste, bringing classic flavors into a modern light. This same balance extends to the restaurant’s ambiance where guests will feel the majesty of the setting but never an air of intimidation. Instead, Dolce Stil Novo is a place of comfort and discovery, where history, culture, and cuisine blend into a singular gastronomic experience. Guided by his wife, Stefania Filippini and her dedicated team in the dining room, guests dine amid the echoes of royal banquets while savoring the refined elegance of the present. 

Alfredo Russo: The Art of Meaningful Simplicity

Born in Turin in 1968, Alfredo Russo has been redefining Italian cuisine from the very beginning, guided by his philosophy: “Subtract the obvious and add the meaningful.” His approach is a pursuit of pure, authentic flavors, where every ingredient is enhanced to its fullest potential. Raised in Piedmont, a region steeped in culinary tradition, Russo embraced innovation early on, blending classic Italian roots with a bold, creative vision. In 1990, alongside his wife Stefania Filippini, he opened Dolce Stil Novo, quickly earning a Michelin star and establishing himself as a leading voice in modern Italian gastronomy. His talent soon gained international recognition, with appearances on Iron Chef, invitations to renowned culinary congresses, and the publication of three acclaimed cookbooks.

Chef Alfredo Russo

Russo’s cuisine is both minimalist and profound, proving that simplicity, when executed with precision, can be transformative. Dishes like pasta in bianco with oil and Parmesan or 100-hour candied lemon showcase his ability to turn humble ingredients into culinary masterpieces. His influence extends beyond Italy, with prestigious collaborations with brands like Lavazza and Audi, bringing contemporary Italian cuisine to a global audience.

 

With an uninterrupted Michelin-starred career spanning 29 years, Russo is recognized as a true Ambassador of Italian Gastronomy, celebrated by the Michelin Guide and honored by Venaria’s Commercial District for his dedication to excellence. His restaurant, Dolce Stil Novo at the Reggia di Venaria, stands as a testament to his artistry, a place where history, elegance, and exceptional cuisine merge into a royal feast for the senses.

The Exquisite Menu of Dolce Stil Novo

Dining at Dolce Stil Novo is an immersive experience where Chef Alfredo Russo highlights innovation and technique, all within the breathtaking Royal Palace of Venaria. More than just a meal, it is a journey through flavor, history, and artistry, where Italian culinary tradition is reimagined with a contemporary touch. Guests can choose between the "Grand Gourmet Carte Blanche" tasting menu or a personalized selection from the à la carte menu, each offering a meticulously crafted dining experience.

If you’re up for a culinary surprise, the tasting menu at Dolce Stil Novo is the way to go. Available until 1:00 PM for lunch and 9:00 PM for dinner, this seven-course experience is crafted from seasonal market ingredients, priced at €110 per person or €135 with four expertly paired ‘Terroir’ wines from Alfredo Russo’s selection. Prefer to mix and match? The à la carte menu lets you do just that, with a minimum of three courses per person: starters and pasta dishes at €35, main courses between €45 and €49, and desserts at €22. If you’re in the mood for an aperitif, snacks range from €18 to €24, with a special Vermouth ‘MUT’ at €12. And for the perfect ending, you can enjoy your coffee or sip on Vermouth while taking in the breathtaking views from the terrace, overlooking the stunning gardens of the Royal Palace. Now that’s a royal way to wrap up a meal!

Dolce Stil Novo

Address: Reggia di Venaria, Piazza della Repubblica 4, 10078 Venaria Reale (TO), Italy
Tel: +39 346 2690588
Website: https://dolcestilnovo.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dolcestilnovo.alfredorusso