Culinary Delights: Como's Top Restaurants of 2023
In planning an outing, thoughts extend beyond just the route – food becomes a vital consideration. A splendid meal seamlessly extends or culminates a day spent exploring, adding the perfect note to museum visits and discoveries. The expanse of Lake Como presents an array of eateries and culinary genres. Amid this enchanting realm, disappointment becomes improbable. Today, we embark on a journey to unveil the foremost dining gems adorning Lake Como's shores – encompassing historic venues, farm-to-table delights, and veritable terraces perched along the water's edge.
FEEL COMO
Como - via per Cernobbio
Nestled within the heart of the historic center, amid the winding alleys of the walled city, Feel emerges as an intimate and meticulously curated establishment. In the wake of post-Covid constraints, the potential to accommodate a mere ten patrons propelled Chef Federico Beretta and Manager Sommelier Elisa Forlanelli to relocate to their innovative "summer abode" – the magnificent conservatory at Villa del Grumello.
In this splendid setting, the chef continues his dedicated pursuit of elevating freshwater fish. Culinary creations include the renowned sturgeon tonnè, carp accompanied by white celery, watercress, and Zincarlin cheese, linguine infused with missoltino essence, Alpine char, and barbecued eel.
I TIGLI IN THEORIA
Como – via Bianchi Giovini
The captivating setting is none other than the Bishop's Palace, an enduring edifice erected in 1466, nestled between the lake and the cathedral by episcopal decree. Its internally adorned spaces, meticulously elegant, remain true to the grandeur of their framework. Imbibing at the lounge bar or reserving one of the four intimate chambers on the upper floors is an option. Alternatively, revel in a dining experience within the vast and enchanting hall, or the delightful courtyard.
A culinary proposal of remarkable stature, orchestrated by the skilled hands of Chef Franco Caffara, unfolds. The menu dances between sea and land, each dish a testament to finesse. Delicacies include linguine with needle squid, candied lemon, and sweet-sour tomatoes, a vegetable-infused oyster-flavored risotto, rabbit Royale with Carmagnola peppers and rainbow ribs, and a foie gras terrine embellished with Moscato-infused peaches, beetroot pearls, and camomile gel. Amid this historic ambiance, a symphony of flavors awaits.
MATERIA
Cernobbio (CO) – via Cinque Giornate
Amidst Cernobbio's enchanting streets, a culinary prodigy emerges. Davide Caranchini, the maestro behind Materia, has transformed dining into an art form. With an emphasis on technique, practicality, and inventive flavors, Materia's experience surpasses mere dining, becoming an epicurean odyssey.
Within Materia's sanctuary, Caranchini crafts a culinary symphony. His latest menu embodies his brilliance, inviting both gourmands and the curious to savor his creations. The Michelin-starred restaurant reflects Caranchini's dedication – local ingredients, some from his personal garden, weave authenticity into every dish.
MYSTERY BURGER
Como , Via Diaz 78/80
In Como, as well as in Montorfano and Carate Brianza, Mystic Burger emerges as an informal haven that elevates every bite of the ubiquitous street food into a gourmet experience.
The transformation arises not just from their use of prime ingredients for their burgers, but from their consistently bold and inspired pairings. With limited editions co-created by renowned names in Italian cuisine, from the nearby Davide Caranchini to Misha Sukyas, Mystic Burger shapes an unparalleled culinary narrative.
Within the vicinity, another contender, Como Burger, stands as a testament to quality. Its presence spans Como's cityscape, Cernobbio, and Erba, promising a culinary experience that echoes the vibrant evolution of the region's flavors.
BERTON AL LAGO
Torno (CO) – via
The lakeside terrace of Il Sereno's boutique hotel offers tranquility, and Raffaele Lenzi's culinary craft adds allure. Discover inspired dishes, like the plant-centric "Vegetali, Tuberi e Radici" or bold "Contrasti". And inside Il Sereno, Berton al Lago, born from chef Andrea Berton's collaboration, presents an intimate haven for fine dining. Lenzi's talent shines in four tasting menus, including the lake-centric "Classici" and the innovative "Fidarsi". A symphony of flavors and excellence awaits.
