Ristorante La Gallina — Restaurant in Gavi

La Gallina – A Culinary Gem Nestled in the Hills of Gavi.

I had tried — and failed — to get a table at La Gallina on several previous visits to the area, and now I understand why. If you’re planning to go, be sure to book well in advance. Located within the stunning Villa Sparina boutique hotel, and surrounded by the rolling green hills and vineyards of Gavi, La Gallina is a true hidden gem that lives up to every bit of its reputation.

From the elegant decor and serene setting to the exceptionally attentive service, this was a top-tier fine dining experience from the very first bite.

We were lucky enough to dine here two nights in a row, giving us the chance to sample a wider variety of dishes. And honestly? Every plate was a highlight.

Let’s start with the bread — because yes, it’s that memorable. Upon being seated, we were greeted with a generous selection of house-made breads, still-warm focaccia, crispy crostini, and delicate flavored butters, served alongside a creamy fresh cheese and a mini pot of savory meat ragù. It was indulgent enough to be a course of its own — and that was just the beginning.

We followed the staff’s excellent recommendation and opted for the local white wine, produced by Villa Sparina itself — fresh, balanced, and the perfect complement to the menu.

On our first evening, my friend and I both ordered the scallops to start, followed by the seafood pasta. The scallops were absolutely exquisite — light, summery, and served with a well-balanced sauce that made every bite a joy. I could’ve happily ordered a second portion. The pasta, rich with fish and shrimp and steeped in a deeply flavorful seafood stock, was equally outstanding.

I won’t describe every single dish we tried (though I easily could), but trust me — every course was crafted with finesse and full of flavor. Just take a look at the photos and let them speak for themselves.

A heartfelt thank you to the warm, professional staff who made our experience not only seamless but truly special.

Can’t wait to return. If you’re ever in the Gavi region, put La Gallina at the top of your culinary...

To start -The English menu was awkwardly worded with many grammatical errors -The ‘risotto’ if we can even call it that was rank: I was hoping to taste the horseradish and have half a dozen shrimp : like their website picture -one shrimp cut into quarters , vinegar added : ‘ to counteract the horseradish taste ‘ ?!? SWIMMING in a weird broth NOT RISOTTO- CALL IT SOMETHING ELSE- it was topped with a weird white foam that resembled what my dog brings up when he is finished vomiting - so much vinegar added - inedible - was also hoping for an outside seat with a view - even with a reservation put into a corner of their past barn : the servers were kind and was offered a bottle of ‘condolences’: - still paid for the risotto though - they should stick to...

La Gallina isn’t just a restaurant — for me, it’s a place of the heart. The first time I went was years ago, for a special Thanksgiving, and ever since, we’ve returned for every important moment. Each visit becomes a cherished memory. The cuisine is impeccable, the service kind and attentive, and the Gavi hills all around add a poetic touch. My favorite dish? The tagliolini with black truffle — or as I like to say, the black truffle with tagliolini, because it truly steals the show. Intense, aromatic, and in perfect balance.

I was so happy to see that the New York Times recently named Villa Sparina’s Gavi DOCG among the top 20 summer wines under $20. A well-deserved international recognition. This place is an Italian gem — and the world deserves...