Novara locals know: authentic neighborhood favorites worth seeking out.

If you want a spot where locals gather for honest, top-quality meat without the usual fuss, Il Mannarino in Novara’s Piazza Martiri della Libertà is the place to be. It’s more than a restaurant — it’s a butcher’s shop with a kitchen, so you pick your cut right from the counter and watch it come alive on your plate. The vibe is warm and relaxed, like sharing a meal with friends who know their meat well. The staff, especially Emilio, make you feel at home, guiding you through the best choices and ensuring the cooking is spot-on. Try their bombette — little gems of pork with cheese and herbs — which locals rave about. Prices feel fair for the quality, and there’s no cover charge, making it a great neighborhood spot to unwind any day. It’s ideal for anyone who cares about genuine flavors and a community feel without any pretense. Just know that weekend evenings can fill up, so a reservation is a smart move.

# La Locanda delle Due Suocere: Where Novara Locals Actually Eat If you want to skip the tourist traps and eat where the locals know the real deal, this is it. Tucked just off the main drag on Corso Trieste, La Locanda delle Due Suocere feels like that neighborhood spot you'd stumble upon by accident—unassuming from the outside but a genuine gem once you step in.[2][3] The place recently got a refresh to feel more polished while keeping that warm, rustic vibe intact.[4] You'll find three intimate dining rooms with authentic Piedmont character—nothing overdone, just comfortable and welcoming. The staff genuinely knows their stuff and treats you like you belong there, not like you're passing through.[2][3] Here's what keeps locals coming back: they source over 90% of ingredients locally, and it shows.[2][6] The paniscia novarese is the real deal—hearty, traditional, exactly how it should be.[1][2] Risottos and handmade pasta are standouts, and if you see octopus tentacles on the menu, order them.[1] Prices hover around €20-33 for full meals with wine, which is genuinely fair for what you're getting.[1][3] The lunch menu especially represents excellent value—first course, second course, sides, and dessert for about €25 with prosecco included.[3] Dinner runs slightly later on weekends, and reservations are smart because word-of-mouth keeps it busy at peak times.[2] This place is perfect for anyone actually living here or wanting to eat like you do.

If you’re in Novara and craving genuine Indian flavors without the fuss, Baba G Ristorante Indiano is the spot locals keep coming back to. Nestled on Viale Alessandro Manzoni, it’s got that unpretentious neighborhood vibe—simple, cozy, and welcoming, where the staff treats you like a regular, not just a guest. The menu is packed with authentic dishes, but the chicken biryani and vegetarian options are definite crowd-pleasers, made fresh with vibrant spices that don’t overpower but satisfy. Prices hit that sweet local balance—affordable for everyday meals without skimping on quality. Whether you’re grabbing a casual lunch or a relaxed dinner, it’s easy to see why folks here prefer Baba G over other options; it just feels like home with every bite.

If you’re looking for a spot in Novara where locals hang out for honest, hearty Turkish food without fuss, Da Ismail Ristorante Kebap & Market is your go-to. Situated right on Corso Risorgimento, it’s got that friendly neighborhood vibe—no pretense, just genuine flavors and warm welcomes from the staff who clearly know their craft. The lamb kebabs and traditional Turkish dishes are made with real care, using fresh ingredients, and the portions don’t leave you wanting. Prices are easy on the wallet, making it perfect for a relaxed lunch or casual dinner with friends or family. The atmosphere is cozy and unhurried, with a clean, simple interior — just the right backdrop to focus on the food and good company. Locals appreciate that it feels like a little community hub rather than just another eatery, so it’s a solid pick if you want an authentic meal that’s truly part of Novara life. Just a heads-up: it’s busiest in the evenings, so if you want a quieter experience, aim for earlier hours[2][4][7][8].

If you want a genuine taste of Novara, Circolo della Paniscia is where locals go to feel at home. Tucked away on Via Perazzi, it’s got that unpretentious vibe like your grandma’s kitchen, simple and welcoming. The place is run by Giorgio and Milena, who keep things real with hearty, traditional dishes like the Paniscia risotto, rustida, and tupulone — all made from scratch with fresh, local ingredients. Portions are generous and the atmosphere totally relaxed, making it perfect for catching up with friends or family. Prices are fair for what you get, and the service is friendly and familiar, not rushed. It’s not flashy, just honest food and a space where the neighborhood gathers without fuss[1][2][3][5].

If you’re after a place where Novara locals actually hang out—where the vibe is relaxed but the food feels special—Kavallotta is the spot. It’s not flashy, but there’s something about the laid-back elegance and how they treat families, making kids feel just as welcome as adults. The saffron risotto is a local favorite, and the grilled pork belly with star anise is always on point. Portions are generous, and the staff remembers regulars. It’s the kind of place you book for birthdays or when you want a solid meal without the tourist crowds. Prices are fair for the quality, and it’s best to reserve ahead, especially on weekends.

If you want to eat like you’re part of the neighborhood, Lassa•Stà is the spot. Tucked away on Corso Cavallotti, it’s small, warm, and always feels like everyone knows each other. The staff remembers your name, the menu changes with the season, and every dish—like that chickpea and squid mousse or the spaghetti with bottarga—feels personal, not staged. Prices are fair for the quality, and the wine pairings? Always spot-on. It’s the kind of place locals bring friends back to again and again, not for show, but because it just feels right. Book ahead—there are only ten tables, and Novaresi don’t keep secrets for long.