Lake Como is an idyllic destination, a picturesque lake surrounded by beautiful villas. A short 40 minute drive from Milan, Lake Como is easy to get to but feels a million miles away. Tour the lake by boat and hear about the history of famous villas by day or enjoy pool days overlooking Lake Como by day and dine out with the most delicious traditional Italian fare by night. There are a number of amazing options so what are some of the best restaurants in Lake Como for your next visit?
Gatto Nero
Gatto Nero is located high above Lake Como, providing spectacular views from above. The restaurant attracts some high clientele, amongst them is of course George Clooney. It has a rustic, romantic atmosphere in an intimate setting. The pastas are delicious – the tagliatelle with mushrooms and shaved mushrooms and the spaghetti with seafood are two wonderful options. The space is dimly lit with dark wood accents, a perfect place for a date night.
Crotto Dei Platani
A lakeside restaurant, Crotto Dei Platani offers fine dining either on the second floor veranda, outdoor garden or patio seating. The views are incredible and the atmosphere is peaceful. The restaurant is embedded on the side of Lake Como in the rocks and has a private dock, making it accessible also by boat. This is a wonderful option for a nice family meal on vacation or a date night.
Villa D’Este
Villa D’Este is one of Lake Como’s iconic properties. Sprawling across acres of perfectly manicured and landscaped gardens, Villa D’Este is a dream of a property. Attracting A-list guests, the hotel property is not to be missed during a visit to Lake Como. A great way to experience the property is to dine there. The Veranda is the main restaurant of the hotel and has beautiful views of the gardens, serving both lunch and dinner. The Grill is a casual chic option for regional specialties for dinner while Il Platano is a refined dining option on the terrace overlooking the lake. If you want to stop in for a casual drink or light bite for lunch, the Sun Deck overlooking the swimming pool floating in the lake is the perfect option. After lunch, wander the gardens and take in the beautiful property.
Harry’s Bar
In Cernobbio, Harry’s Bar is located in a picturesque square. It’s a well-known spot serving up traditional Italian dishes using seasonal ingredients. During the summer months, dine on the veranda to enjoy views of Lake Como. Harry’s Bar is an ideal place to stop for an aperitivo and bite to eat.
Grand Hotel Tremezzo
Grand Hotel Tremezzo is a luxury and iconic hotel with a panoramic view of Lake Como. It’s a stylish destination in an art nouveau mansion with its famous water-over-water pool immersed in Lake Como. It’s a sight from the boats on the lake and lives up to the expectations on property as well. There are three restaurants and two bars at the hotel for you to choose from to experience the great Grand Hotel Tremezzo. La Terrazza Gualtiero Marchesi serves up traditional Italian cuisine for a fine dining dinner on the terrace overlooking Lake Como while L’Escale Trattoria & Wine Bar gives a taste or rural Italy with local dishes served in the wine cellar. Here you can get a wine tasting and get Italian cheese and meat boards as well as traditional dishes with a contemporary twist. There is also the iconic Giacomo from Milan in a Lake Como post, Giacomo al Lago. Additionally, there is T Bar where you can get a pre-dinner drink or night cap or T Pizza where you can get a pizza of your choice made right in front of you.
Figli dei Fiori
Figli dei Fiori is a stylish bistro and osteria serving up traditional dishes. The bistro is a more relaxed space, filled with flowers and greenery, serving up breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The osteria serves up traditional dishes in a welcoming atmosphere. This is a local favorite so much like the other places on this list, advanced reservations are highly recommended. This is a great option for lunch as it is more relaxed.