€€€Seafood, Contemporary
Housed in a historic palazzo on the charming Piazza della Motta in the town centre, this restaurant is one you will immediately want to share with family and friends thanks to its delicious cuisine. The menu focuses mainly on fish and seafood (including impressive raw fish dishes) although a few meat options are also available. Good choice of wines and spirits.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.2/5 · 80 reviews
La Perla in Varese specializes in seafood and contemporary cuisine. Reviews highlight fresh ingredients and skilled preparation, particularly praising raw fish, lobster, and white truffle dishes. The ambiance is described as elegant and intimate. Service is generally professional and attentive, though some guests report slow pacing or unexpected charges for unrequested items. While most experiences are positive, occasional critiques mention inconsistent cooking temperatures and service details, leading to mixed views on overall value.
Suitable for diners seeking high-quality seafood in an elegant setting; verify menu availability in advance.
€€Traditional Cuisine, Modern Cuisine
In an 18th Century building, a rustic yet elegant atmosphere with a particular attentiveness at the tables and in the cuisine, which has a traditional base, but also knows how to add imaginative variations.
€€€Country cooking, Lombardian
A bastion of regional cuisine for over a century, this restaurant occupies an attractive group of buildings with a large outdoor summer area shaded by a pergola and a charming dining room with a retro feel. Traditional recipes with interesting and personalised twists take centre stage, including superb ravioli del plin with three roasts and a meat sauce – this is Lombardy, after all! Impressive wine list, including wines by the glass.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.6/5 · 80 reviews
Olona - Da Venanzio is a historic restaurant in the Varese suburbs specializing in traditional Lombard country cuisine. Reviews frequently praise the high-quality ingredients, warm hospitality, and elegant atmosphere, highlighting dishes like cold cuts, mondeghini, and homemade ice cream. However, some guests report issues with poor communication regarding reservations, rude service, or slow pacing. Negative feedback also mentions unsuitable seating arrangements and subpar desserts. While many consider it a top dining destination in the province, others note inconsistencies in service standards.
Suitable for diners seeking traditional Lombard flavors and a classic experience, with advance booking confirmation recommended.
€€€Tuscan, Grills
At the gates of the city, within a building steeped in history and featuring convenient private parking, this restaurant welcomes guests with classic elegance from the entrance, where artisanal cantucci and ricciarelli are displayed for sale. The dining room echoes the same refined atmosphere, with attentive, punctual service. In the kitchen, Tuscan tradition reigns: meat dishes take center stage, with few concessions to seafood, and fresh pastas prepared according to time-honored methods. An offering built on the strength of regional flavors and authenticity. No frills, but careful attention
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.0/5 · 80 reviews
Located on the outskirts of Varese, Al Vecchio Convento specializes in Tuscan cuisine and grills. Reviews frequently praise the elegant classic decor, impeccable service, and extensive wine list, particularly highlighting the white truffle menu and refined desserts. However, negative feedback points to inconsistent food quality, including flavorless dishes, incorrect orders, and notably small portions. While recognized by Michelin, opinions on value are divided, with some finding prices too high relative to the raw materials and portion sizes. Diners should be aware of potential discrepancies between expectation and execution regarding cost and quantity.
Suitable for diners seeking an elegant atmosphere and professional service, though reasonable expectations regarding portion sizes and value are advised.
€€€Cuisine from Valtellina, Traditional Cuisine
For over fifty years, the Valbuzzi family has passionately maintained this enchanting crotto, now in its third generation. The atmosphere is elegant and refined while staying true to its origins: wooden tables, period furnishings, and floral touches. The summer veranda is particularly stunning, overlooking a lush garden and a sandstone wall. The menu balances traditional dishes – the pizzoccheri are unmissable – with more contemporary creations, such as the surprising saltimbocca of larded quail with fennel, escarole gel, pickled apricot, and zucchini flan.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.8/5 · 80 reviews
Located in Malnate, Crotto Valtellina specializes in traditional Valtellina cuisine. Reviews highlight exceptional food quality, particularly the historical menu's Pizzoccheri buckwheat pasta and balanced flavors, with noted care for allergy and celiac requirements. Service is generally professional and courteous, though some guests reported pacing issues or communication gaps. The ambiance is praised for its romantic setting, featuring a natural cave view, understated elegance, and soft music. While a minority found the value mediocre or desserts disappointing, the restaurant maintains a high 4.8/5 rating, reflecting strong overall satisfaction with its authentic culinary offerings and welcoming environment.
Ideal for diners seeking authentic Valtellina traditions, dietary safety, and a romantic cave setting.
€€Classic Cuisine
This romantic restaurant on the lakeshore has a welcoming, elegant ambience and a delightful terrace for summer dining. The cuisine pays particular attention to top-quality, seasonal ingredients prepared in traditional recipes with a focus on fish. Cosy, Provençal-style guestrooms complete the picture.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.2/5 · 80 reviews
Villa Baroni in Lomnago is noted for its elegant atmosphere and scenic lake views. Reviews frequently praise the attentive service and warm environment, with the veranda being a highly recommended spot. Food quality is generally well-regarded, particularly the mixed fried fish and vegetables. However, some guests express disappointment regarding specific dishes like roasted octopus, portion sizes, and perceived high prices relative to quality. Negative feedback also cites management issues and booking inconsistencies. Despite occasional critical reviews, it remains a solid choice for families and special occasions, appealing to those seeking classic cuisine and a refined dining experience with a view.
Suitable for family gatherings or celebrations seeking lake views and classic cuisine.
€€Mediterranean Cuisine
An attractive restaurant which offers a friendly and informal welcome and service, alongside an elegant, personalised yet classic decor. The cuisine is mainly Mediterranean in flavour, emphasised by the use of local and seasonal ingredients. The self-taught chef here is passionate about his cuisine.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.7/5 · 80 reviews
Located in Malnate, Osteria degli Angeli offers Mediterranean cuisine. Reviews frequently praise the high food quality, particularly the risotto and starters, alongside attentive and friendly service. The atmosphere is described as warm and welcoming, though the small space requires reservations. Some guests note that prices are high relative to portion sizes or find the decor dated and facilities worn. Negative feedback occasionally mentions rude staff or inconsistent dish quality. Overall, it is a solid choice for those seeking traditional flavors and good hospitality, provided reservations are made and expectations regarding value are managed.
Suitable for diners prioritizing ingredient quality and service over budget constraints.