Il Torchio - Pettorano sul gizio

A charming but shambolic restaurant. An enthusiastic waiter took our order for a simple two course lunch and, then , five minutes later another waiter brought us a menu and we had to re order. Eventually, a mediocre first course arrived (pasta) but we had to request the bread and Parmesan cheese. The second course did not arrive and after waiting we asked for the bill. I pointed out to the waiter that his bill charged us for half a litre of house wine but we had only ordered and been provided with a quarter litre. The waiter took the bill away to adjust it. When he returned he had adjusted the amount to a third of a litre (not usually available) rather than a quarter (see photo) but not altered the charge. (Furbo as they say in Italy). He offered us a card to pick up a ‘gift’ at a shop in the nearby town of Sulmona and told us he looked forward to seeing us again So, all in all, the full Fawlty Towers experience Even the toilet lacked a key and the wash basins had run out of soap. Il Torchio is well worth a visit for the comedy of charming incompetence that is on offer. The food is just about passable.

Wow! What a treat we were given while spending last Saturday at Il Torcchio!! Milena, the chef, and her father, the master chef : were charming hosts and shared so much historical knowledge on making polenta. Both from the town that is famous for its Polenta Rugnosa and its Mugnoli greens, they provided us a fabulous two hour hands on class making polenta. Then we helped dice the pancetta, which Milena sautéed with lots of olive oil, and then sat down to eat or feast! The mugnoli next to the polenta topped with pancetta suco could not have been better! The house red wine and espressos are perfect to accompany and top off the meal! Il Torcchio is charming and historic inside and so inviting to spend a long lunch there in the afternoon!

4 of us were visiting a friend in Pettorano and figured our dining options would be limited. In fact they were (only 2 restaurants in town) but we were blown away by the food and service here. We ordered various dishes and all were excellent. If they have the ravioli, you MUST order it because it was hands down the best thing. We also had polenta, gnocchi and chitarra- all fantastic. The tiramisu was so great. And we had an amazing localish beer called Maxima that is onr of my favourites ever! And all of this enjoyed sitting at a table out in the courtyard with an amazing view of the mountains. Highly recommend!

If you love the mountain and visit the Abruzzo you cannot miss a visit, a city surrounded by the mountains. here is the peat, where in a typical square, with forest and mountain views, in summer you can eat local and typical food. wide variety of wines, even for the most demanding palates. not very competitive prices, but the game is worth the candle. Advice

Friendliness, professionalism and excellent cuisine. recommended.