Tradition and heritage are honoured, but the natural beauty still takes centre stage at Italy’s most famous lake.
If your tastes swing towards ambitious small plates, try Materia in Cernobbio or Feel in Como, both of which utilise a locavore approach — fish from the lake, locally grown herbs — in service of artful gastronomical creations. Even more appealing is Bistrot Figli dei Fiori, a florist-cum-restaurant located on Como’s grungier west side. What it lacks in lake views (none), it makes up for in atmosphere: a plant-filled terrace resembling a greenhouse proves an ideal aperitivo spot, while in the multiple low-lit, botanically themed dining rooms you’re likely to hear the swift patter of Italian among the guests.
This is a local’s hotspot, too. The food is fresh, relaxed and surprisingly light, and everything — from the cocktails to the pasta — comes strewn with flowers.
