Reflecting a modern Italy that reminds one of Milan more than Rome, Caffè del Corso is unique in its distinction from other area cafes. While not centered as near the old town as the other cafes previously written about here, its proximity both to the city center and the train station makes this a convenient stopover going to or coming back from the old town.
With a wide indoor and outdoor seating area, Caffè del Corso is better equipped to handle the masses than most of the other local cafes. Caffè Roma has five indoor tables and no patio seating, while here you’ll find upwards of 20, not counting the patio. Surprisingly then, Caffè del Corso doesn’t get particularly busy, or at least not in comparison to that previously mentioned cafe. This must surely have to do more with its location than the quality of its products because for both baked goods and coffees, Caffè del Corso is top-notch. Caffè Vergnano is the preferred bean here, good for me as it’s one of my personal favorites. The cappuccino here is a delight, excellent every time and prepared by genuine coffee artisans. But this is Italy and a great cappuccino isn’t treated with the respect it might be in America, rather it’s to be expected.
The real prize then, is del Corso’s pastries, cakes, puddings, and numerous other goodies. Whether you want pie or mascarpone (a must!) they have it here, fresh and unequalled. There’s a lunch menu too, and should hunger find you wandering, the panini served here will satisfy your inner cravings.
Because of its size and quaint clientele, Caffè del Corso is also the perfect place to duck into the corner by the window, prop up your elbows, and read a little Italo Calvino as you sip your cappuccino and take bites from the chocolate cornetto. The chocolate is nutella, and the Calvino can occasionally be dense, but both reflect a broader creativity, much as this cafe suggests a wonderful way to while away a couple of hours… Or the custom two minutes to take a caffè at the bar.
Address Corso Umberto 1 Public transport N/A: It’s small town in Italy – you can walk.
Opening times As this is Italy, my putting up the hours would be pointless. Opening and closing times are completely up to the whim of the owner. Being closed on Tuesday is something you can take to the bank… though preferably not an Italian one.
Cost € Telephone 080 204 7209 Website N/A
My Life in Transit 