Slow Food’s Salone del Gusto and  Terra Madre is one of the major events of the food world. It takes place in Torino every two years and brings together over 900 food producers from 130 countries. During this amazing, delicious four-day event it’s possible to taste, learn about and buy foods not just from all over Italy, but from all over the world. This year’s Salone, the 10th, starts in a few days, Thursday October 23.
As incredibly delicious as this extravaganza is, it can also be a bit overwhelming. The fair covers over 65,000 square meters and includes over 300 workshops, dinners, tastings and conferences to choose from.Â
But don’t worry: I’m an expert. I’ve been attending the Salone since it was first held in 1996. Unfortunately, for various reasons, I’m not going to be able to make it up there this year. But maybe you are? I hope so, since it’s a fantastic, fun and delicious event.
First of all, here are a few tips:
- Try to visit the Mercato of the Salone on Thursday and Friday, before the crowds arrive. This is where the producers display their products. Many of the items are part of the Slow Food Presidi and recognized as elements of our cultural heritage.
- Try to attend a workshop. Although many get booked ahead of time, some have last minute openings.
- The Theater of Taste is where some of the most famous names in the food world will be speaking about important issues.
- Leave enough time to go to Terre Madre, which is a network of food communities, academic, cooks and young people from 150 countries who have met in Torino since 2004. This is an incredible opportunity to meet with people who produce our food and it’s a unique chance to meet with – and talk to – food producers from all over the world, discovering the stories and struggles of sustainability around the world.
Although you’re probably going to be eating a lot at the Salone itself, you will probably feel like sitting down to a real meal. If so, reserve now, before it’s too late. Here are some of my favorite places:
Antiche Sere
Caffe San Carlo
As I mentioned, I’ve done this before. Here are some of my past blog posts:
Salone del Gusto and Terra Madre {Video}
Slow Food and Salone del Gusto 2012
Thursday at the Salone del Gusto 2010
Hanging Tomatoes at the Salone del Gusto
Buying Beans at the Salone del Gusto
Street Food at the Salone del Gusto Video
Farinata at the Salone del Gusto Video
Bicerin at the Salone del Gusto
Have a great time!!!
2012 was one Of The best experiences of my life, in or out of Italy! Thanks to Elizabeth we got in on all the good stuff, and I had to buy another suitcase to bring it all home. But then I do that almost every trip…The Salone is truly an experience not to be missed!
I had a great time too Ann, and it was such fun being there with all of you. I’m really missing the Salone this year, but you can’t do everything. Instead, I’m headed to Puglia, where I know you just spent a lovely time.
What a shame you’re not going to be there this year! I’m actually going a bit later today! It’s my first time there. It’s a happy accident as I’m in Turin staying with my in-laws to avoid renovation work going on in our house! I’m looking forward to seeing la Salone del Gusto in “real life”. I’ve heard so much about it! Thanks for your tips. they’ll come in useful!
Just wanted to add my voice to Ann’s that the Salone was a great experience and one that I will treasure–love to Elizabeth and Sophie along with all of our”group”.
Great to hear from you Corinne!! We all have to have a reunion one of these days.