After a few years visiting bars, I have developed a sort of an instinct: when I enter a bar, especially if I am alone, I can tell whether that will be a memorable evening or not. It has to do with the energy in the place, the “partner in crime” smile of the bartender, the music, the smell, the style, you name it. That bell rang when I entered the D.ONE bar, in the lively San Salvario area of Torino, and once more it nailed it. All these elements are in place: classic but not playlist-like jazz music in the background, a nice welcoming smile of all staff, a large beautiful bar full of fine bottles, including some bottled Americanos produced in the house. Cocktails are up to expectations: my first classic martini was almost perfect (just because perfection in a martini is impossible) and the boulevardier on the rocks that followed was also extremely good. But what surprised me the most is the creativity in menu making: one menu inspired by the Around the World in Eighty Days novel, with bold and balanced drinks for every stop of Verne’s journey, and one titles “Make Americano great again”, with a great vintage look and with different Americanos in honour of famous boxers of the 20th century. You can (and you should) order all of them, but if you want the last very special one – in the name of Primo Carnera – you must have tried all the others… All in all, I believe I found one of the best bars in town, and I’ll be there again and again. Classic Martini rate: 8.
The Martini Hour 