Varenna, a picturesque village nestled on the eastern shore of Italy’s Lake Como, offers more than just stunning vistas and tranquil lakeside strolls. On my recent trip to this enchanting locale, I set out to uncover the best culinary experiences the town had to offer.
From charming lakeside restaurants to hidden gems in cobbled alleyways, my gastronomic adventure in Varenna was nothing short of spectacular. I will share my experiences of delights in this village with you.
1. Ristorante La Vista: Dining with a View
Location: Via XX Settembre, 35, 23829 Varenna LC, Italy
Nestled within the Albergo Milano, Ristorante La Vista offers a dining experience that combines exquisite cuisine with breathtaking views of Lake Como. As I walked through the narrow streets of Varenna, the scent of fresh herbs and grilling seafood drew me towards this charming restaurant.
The terrace, adorned with vibrant flowers, provided the perfect setting for my meal. The panoramic view of the lake and mountains added a magical touch to the dining experience. I started with the antipasto misto di pesce, a mixed seafood platter featuring lake fish, prawns, and calamari. Each bite was a symphony of flavors, highlighting the freshness of the ingredients.
I chose the risotto al pesce persico, a creamy risotto with perch fillets. The delicate flavors of the fish complemented the rich, creamy texture of the risotto. Paired with a glass of local white wine, the meal was a delight to the senses. Desserts are not to be missed here; I indulged in the tiramisu, which was the perfect balance of sweetness and coffee flavor.
Price Range: €25-€40 per person
Nearby Attractions: After a satisfying meal, take a leisurely walk to the nearby Villa Monastero. This historic villa boasts beautiful botanical gardens and a museum, offering a glimpse into Varenna’s rich history.
2. Il Cavatappi: A Cozy Culinary Retreat
Location: Via XX Settembre, 10, 23829 Varenna LC, Italy
Tucked away in a quaint alley, Il Cavatappi is a small but inviting restaurant that offers a cozy and intimate dining experience. The rustic decor and warm ambiance immediately made me feel at home.
I began with the bruschetta al pomodoro, a simple yet flavorful starter. The tomatoes were fresh and juicy, and the basil added a fragrant touch. For the main course, I opted for the tagliatelle al tartufo, homemade pasta served with a rich truffle sauce. The earthy aroma of the truffles combined with the perfectly cooked pasta was divine.
The highlight of my meal was the panna cotta, which was smooth and creamy with a hint of vanilla. It was served with a berry compote that added a tart contrast to the sweetness of the dessert.
Price Range: €20-€35 per person
Nearby Attractions: Il Cavatappi is conveniently located near the Church of San Giorgio, a beautiful Romanesque church with stunning frescoes and a tranquil atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot to reflect and relax after a delightful meal.
3. La Puppola: Traditional Flavors with a Modern Twist
Location: Piazza Martiri della Libertà, 3, 23829 Varenna LC, Italy
La Puppola offers a menu that marries traditional Italian cuisine with contemporary flair. The restaurant’s modern interior, with its clean lines and stylish decor, sets the stage for an exceptional dining experience.
I started my culinary journey with the carpaccio di manzo, thinly sliced beef drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice. The beef was tender and flavorful, perfectly complemented by the peppery arugula and shaved Parmesan.
For the main course, I couldn’t resist the ossobuco alla Milanese, a classic dish featuring braised veal shanks served with saffron risotto. The veal was cooked to perfection, tender and falling off the bone, while the risotto was rich and creamy, with a subtle hint of saffron.
To end the meal, I indulged in the torta di cioccolato, a decadent chocolate cake that was both rich and moist. Paired with a glass of dessert wine, it was the perfect conclusion to a memorable meal.
Price Range: €30-€45 per person
Nearby Attractions: La Puppola is located near Villa Cipressi, another historic villa with beautiful gardens that cascade down to the lake. It’s a wonderful place to take a leisurely stroll and admire the stunning views.
4. Varenna Mon Amour: A Romantic Culinary Escape
Location: Via XX Settembre, 12, 23829 Varenna LC, Italy
Varenna Mon Amour lives up to its name, offering a romantic and intimate dining experience. The restaurant’s candlelit tables and elegant decor create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
I began with the insalata di polpo, a refreshing octopus salad with potatoes, cherry tomatoes, and olives. The octopus was perfectly cooked, tender, and flavorful. For the main course, I chose the ravioli al tartufo, homemade ravioli stuffed with ricotta and spinach, served with a truffle cream sauce. The rich, earthy flavor of the truffles paired beautifully with the delicate ravioli.
The highlight of my meal was the semifreddo al limone, a frozen lemon dessert that was light and refreshing, with the perfect balance of sweet and tart.
Price Range: €25-€40 per person
Nearby Attractions: After dining at Varenna Mon Amour, take a short walk to the Varenna Esplanade. This lakeside promenade offers stunning views of Lake Como and is a perfect spot for a romantic evening stroll.
5. Al Prato: Farm-to-Table Freshness
Location: Piazza del Prato, 6, 23829 Varenna LC, Italy
Al Prato is known for its commitment to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create delicious and wholesome dishes. The restaurant’s charming outdoor seating area, surrounded by greenery, provides a serene setting for a meal.
I started with the insalata caprese, featuring ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil. The simplicity of the dish allowed the quality of the ingredients to shine. For the main course, I opted for the tagliata di manzo, a grilled beef steak served with arugula and Parmesan. The beef was cooked to perfection, juicy and tender, and the arugula added a peppery bite.
To end the meal, I enjoyed the panna cotta with a mixed berry sauce. The panna cotta was creamy and smooth, with the tartness of the berries providing a lovely contrast.
Price Range: €25-€40 per person
Nearby Attractions: Al Prato is located near the Castello di Vezio, an ancient castle that offers panoramic views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains. It’s a great place to explore and learn about the region’s history.
6. Crotto di Pino: Authentic and Rustic
Location: Via per Esino, 23828 Perledo LC, Italy
Situated just a short drive from Varenna, Crotto di Pino offers an authentic dining experience in a rustic and charming setting. The restaurant is nestled in the hills, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
I began with the bresaola e rucola, a simple yet flavorful dish featuring air-dried beef, arugula, and shaved Parmesan. I chose the pizzocheri della Valtellina, a traditional dish from the Lombardy region made with buckwheat pasta, potatoes, and cheese. The dish was hearty and comforting, with the rich flavors of the cheese and potatoes complementing the nutty pasta.
The highlight of the meal was the torta di noci, a walnut cake that was both rich and moist, with a hint of cinnamon. It was the perfect ending to a delightful meal.
Price Range: €20-€35 per person
Nearby Attractions: After dining at Crotto di Pino, take a scenic drive to the nearby town of Bellagio, known as the “Pearl of Lake Como.” Explore the charming streets, visit the beautiful gardens of Villa Melzi, and enjoy the stunning views of the lake.
My culinary journey through Varenna was a feast for the senses, offering a delightful blend of traditional Italian flavors and modern culinary innovations. Each restaurant provided a unique dining experience, with dishes that showcased the best of local ingredients and regional specialties.
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply looking to indulge in some delicious meals, Varenna has something to offer every palate. As you explore this beautiful village, be sure to take in the stunning views, immerse yourself in the rich history, and savor the incredible flavors that make Varenna a true culinary gem.
