Italy Journal
Sat.., Nov. 10- Wed. Nov. 14
The university bought a building in Bra that has a large dining room and an industrial kitchen. They have named it the Gastronomic Society; and throughout the year, many of the professors and student groups have used the space to gather and share meals. Now, suddenly, the idea of pop-up cafes has become huge, and the university students have scheduled the Gastronomic Society building for students to have their meals. Students and others associated with the University make a wonderful menu, and the participants pay very little for great meals.
We took John and Liz there for lunch twice during the weekend. One lunch was prepared by Roberta and Maya from Peter’s cohort. It was fabulous. The other meal was prepared by the two students who live there and take care of building and its grounds, Silvio and Juan. Again, we went away well-satisfied. The smoking meatballs were unusual and delicious. So, now, some students have claimed November as “Pop-up November, “ and the feasting continues!
It was a great idea for my tutor Sara to take Liz, John and me to the Wine Museum in Barolo. She was practicing her tour speech, and we were loving being a part of that. That particular wine museum is new, and it is different from any I’ve ever seen. I took some pictures, but they didn’t turn out well. Most of the museum was interactive…sit and ride a stationary bike through the year's countryside pictures on the walls all around, watch the mouth of cardboard figures tell stories of people in Barolo history, push a pedal that makes a picture come alive. It was really cool, and Sara did a great job with her introduction to the museum.
Afterwards, we had pizza in Pollenzo, and Charlotte came later to share great pasta with us. She and Peter then planned the photo shoot for their class. It was unique. John, Liz and I took off and went to pick up our G.A.S. vegetables and fruits during the evening. It’s always nice to get out in the early evening in Bra. Lots of people are out talking and walking around. The men always walk with their hands clasped behind their backs. Very traditional.
On their last day here, Enzo went with us to Alba in search of the Barolo chocolates that John remembered from when he was here before. Enzo was very helpful in giving lots of history and information about Alba, and we found the chocolate shop with no problem at all. We also located an enoteca that Enzo says has the cheapest price in Italy on its wines. Peter was interested in that fact when we returned. I’m sure we’ll go back.
For our last dinner together, we all went with Lisa and Enzo to Boccondivino, just around the corner from where we live. It was the first Slow Food restaurant. We always enjoy eating there, and we especially enjoyed this meal with dear friends.
On Thursday, November 15, John and Liz and I took off for the Malpensa Airport right after lunch so they would be there for their early flight the next day. Thanks, John and Liz for another very special visit from you very special friends.
Colleen
PS – Notice the VERY CUTE hat Peter has for his trip to Scotland!
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