Quartin, the bar without labels, opens in Turin
A new gathering place in Turin promises to reawaken the authentic feel of old-time venues. Designed by Velvet Studio and led by Gianluca Bocchetta, Quartin has opened its doors in the heart of the Vanchiglia neighborhood to offer a convivial, spontaneous experience far removed from the stereotypes of glossy vintage.
The authentic soul of a neighborhood that tells its story
In an ever-evolving urban landscape, the need for spaces that allow time to flow naturally is becoming increasingly evident. Quartin was born from this very premise: an idea born from the simplicity of a meeting between friends and transformed into a bar that rejects labels to rediscover the pleasure of the immediate. Located at Via Santa Giulia 21, a few steps from the Ciao Cara team's other creation, the venue welcomes customers with a single window display and a yellow awning that hints at its intimate atmosphere. The interior revolves around a large wooden counter with high stools, a station where the host not only serves drinks but also collects stories of everyday, bad, or happy days. The name itself recalls the classic quarter of wine, a universal symbol of Italian sociability, while the motto "Do it yourself" encapsulates the relationship of blind trust between those at the counter and those who sit down to enjoy a moment of relaxation. Not an exercise in style, but a refuge in which to rediscover familiar details that bring back childhood memories.
An old-fashioned offering of popular glasses and soft ice cream
Quartin's culinary offerings faithfully reflect its philosophy, split between a no-frills aperitivo and a sweet treat designed to bring back memories of childhood. For those seeking the taste of tradition, the menu offers affordable classics from yesteryear: from spicy olives and gorgonzola served with gherkins and breadsticks, to stuffed chili peppers, salami with straw-yellow wine, and the ever-present anchovies in butter. Those who want to sample every nuance can opt for the rich Cabaret Mix, perhaps accompanied by warm focaccia in the classic version with ham and cheese or with an omelette. The glass features draft beers, vintage soft drinks, bar classics like Soldatini di Crodino or Campari, and a minimalist selection of iconic cocktails. Providing a counterpoint to this savory flavor is soft-serve fiordilatte gelato, served throughout the day and enriched with delicious toppings like black cherry, gianduja, or tiramisu. There's no shortage of more indulgent options, such as filled cookies served in steel cups, designed for those who want to indulge in a sweet treat at the table or while out for a stroll.
A meaningful design and the lightness of a hippopotamus
The interior design by Velvet Studio reflects a profound respect for the guest's ultimate experience, carefully avoiding the feel of an antiques museum. The walls display warm, deep tones, paired with a straw yellow that echoes the window details of the bar. Iconic elements such as Vienna straw frame the bookcases, evoking a 1970s style, while the marble and wood were matte-finished on site to maintain a vibrant, lived-in look. The old walls were scraped to reveal the original material, eliminating the existing tiles. Crowning this vision is the slogan "Stai soft," a true declaration of intent inviting guests to unplug from the constant flow of external stimuli. A touch of irony and surrealism is provided by the figure of a large red hippopotamus suspended above the bar: a massive visual element that, hovering in the air against all the laws of physics, becomes Quartin's conceptual manifesto, demonstrating how lightness can arise from even the most unexpected appearances.
Quartin
Via Santa Giulia 21