L Brusc E L Bas - Moiola

We were driving up the Val Stura and were looking for a nice place to eat, but didn't have lots of time for research as it was getting towards the end of lunch time. The TA reviews suggested that this agriturismo was good, so we pulled into the parking area in front, really not knowing what to expect. The outside suggested a farmhouse turned into to roadside tourist attraction, not particularly encouraging, but once inside the upstairs dining area we were already impressed. The small dining room was warmly welcoming, with wide plank wood floor, subdued natural colors, a wood burning stove against the back wall, good lighting, attractive table linens and place settings. She, of the husband and wife team, is (was? an architect, which may explain the excellent interior design. She manages the front of house efficiently and pleasantly. He, an ex veterinarian, is the chef. The restaurant is in the home of his grandparents. The holiday menu (this was the 1st of January included a rich offering of antipasti, which was just right for us after all of the big holiday meals. Five different servings of Piemontese classics, each prepared and presented with care and creativity: Vitello Tonnato all'antica maniera: The addition of hard boiled egg in the preparation of the tuna sauce renders this a thicker and richer version of the veal tonnato that can be found in almost any restaurant in Piemonte. Very nicely presented on tender slices of roast veal. Oca con marmellata di cipolla su pan brioce: The slices of goose breast were laid on top of the pan brioche and the red onion marmelade, served in a small side dish, was pleasantly balanced not too sweet, not too vinegary. Acciughe al verde serviti in vasetto: anchovies in a parsley, oil and garlic sauce, this one too with the addition of boiled egg, which gives it fuller body and better balance than the standard version. Perfect on a slice of the excellent bread offered on the table. Baccala' mantecato con cialda di parmigiano: The soft and warm baccala had the consistency of perfect mashed potatoes. The delicate cod flavor contrasted nicely with the thin slice of parmesan cheese which had been toasted. Flan di topinambur con fonduta di toma di pecora: A masterpiece. This flan of jerusalem artichoke was light and fluffy. Topped with the warm sauce of fresh sheeps milk cheese melted with cream it sang of the season. The pasta and meat dishes sounded very good as well and I look forward to trying them on my next visit. Though we really didn't need to, we decided to try the desserts. A perfect panna cotta served on a large plate, with a drizzle of orange sauce and a sprinkle of powdered sugar, and a semifreddo al torrone well presented with sprinkles of chocolate, a fruit reduction and powdered sugar. Both were excellent. Our only regret was that we arrived with limited appetites. Next time we will come prepared.