Top 5 Restaurants to visit while traveling to Lake Como, Italy

1. Il Gatto Nero (Cernobbio)

Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean

Why Visit: Located on the hills of Cernobbio, Il Gatto Nero offers panoramic views of Lake Como and serves delicious traditional Italian dishes with a focus on seafood and local ingredients.

Signature Dish: Fresh fish and seafood risotto.

Tip: Make sure to sit on the terrace for the best lake views.

2. Villa d'Este (Cernobbio)

Cuisine: Mediterranean, Italian

Why Visit: Known for its luxury, the Villa d'Este restaurant offers an upscale dining experience. The restaurant's location on the grounds of the historic Villa d’Este Hotel offers stunning lake views. It’s a perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.

Signature Dish: Risotto with saffron and Lake Como fish.

Tip: Dress smartly, as this is a fine-dining establishment.

3. Ristorante Mistral (Lecco)

Cuisine: Mediterranean, Contemporary

Why Visit: Ristorante Mistral, located in the CastaDiva Resort, is a Michelin-starred restaurant offering creative Mediterranean cuisine. The elegant ambiance and lakeside location make it perfect for an exquisite dining experience.

Signature Dish: Degustation menu and contemporary seafood dishes.

Tip: Perfect for a celebratory meal.

4. La Punta (Bellagio)

Cuisine: Italian, Seafood

Why Visit: Situated on a beautiful peninsula in Bellagio, La Punta offers stunning views of the lake and a relaxing, laid-back atmosphere. The menu features fresh fish and seafood, with a strong emphasis on local ingredients.

Signature Dish: Grilled fish and seafood pasta.

Tip: Sit outside for a breathtaking view of the lake, especially at sunset.

5. Crotto dei Platani (Laglio)

Cuisine: Italian, Local specialties

Why Visit: A hidden gem in Laglio, this charming Crotto (traditional lakeside restaurant) offers authentic Lombardy cuisine in a rustic setting with stone walls. It’s ideal for a more casual, yet delicious, dining experience.

Signature Dish: Polenta with braised beef and lake fish.

Tip: Enjoy a glass of local wine while sitting outside near the lake.

Bonus Restaurant: The Grand Hotel Tremezzo (Tremezzo)

Cuisine: Italian, Fine Dining

Why Visit: Known for its upscale service and exceptional lakeside dining options, The Grand Hotel Tremezzo offers a refined experience. It also hosts multiple restaurants, including the gourmet La Terrazza.

Signature Dish: Freshly prepared Italian classics and seasonal seafood.

These 5 restaurants offer a variety of dining experiences around Lake Como, from relaxed lakeside eateries to upscale fine dining establishments, each providing a taste of the region's rich culinary heritage. Whether you're in the mood for a casual meal or a Michelin-star experience, Lake Como has something for every palate.