City dining guide
3 guide-listed restaurants — Michelin, Bib Gourmand, Black Pearl, Must-Eat List, World's 50 Best and more. Reference quality signals; never ranked by commission, no in-app checkout.
Situated in the Royal Victoria hotel on picturesque Varenna’s small central piazza, this restaurant has just a few tables overlooking one of the most spectacular sights on Lake Como, namely the Bellagio promontory flanked on either side by the two branches of the lake. Talented chef Francesco Sarno, originally from Salerno, is at the helm in the kitchen here – the colour and intense flavours of his native Campania are evident in some of his dishes.
WebsiteSituated on the main road overlooking the lake, this pleasant family-run restaurant serves excellent traditional cuisine with a focus on local fish. Atmospheric dining room with stone walls and vaulted ceilings, plus an attractive outdoor space, and friendly, attentive owners.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.6/5 · 80 reviews
Located in Fiumelatte, a 20-minute walk from Varenna, Hosteria del Platano offers a quiet retreat from tourist crowds. Based on 80 reviews averaging 4.6/5, the food quality is highly praised, featuring well-presented, flavorful dishes and an extensive wine list. The atmosphere is warm and charming, enhanced by flower decorations. Service is generally attentive and helpful, though some guests noted difficulties with reservations or perceived coldness. Value perceptions vary; while many find the refined dining experience worth the cost, others criticize the price-to-quality ratio. Minor issues include occasional meal pacing inconsistencies and lack of nearby parking.
Ideal for travelers seeking a peaceful lakeside dining experience who prioritize food quality and do not mind walking from Varenna.
Situated at the tip of Bellagio’s promontory where the two branches of the lake meet, this villa occupies a superb panoramic location, with its restaurant housed in a covered veranda boasting delightful views of the opposite shore, its little villages and exclusive residences. The atmosphere here is reminiscent of a grand hotel, with background piano music in the evening and guests from all around the world. The moderately creative cuisine offers a choice of Italian dishes alongside more international options.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.0/5 · 80 reviews
Mistral, located within the Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni in Bellagio, offers stunning views of Lake Como's convergence, creating a highly praised atmosphere. Food quality receives mixed reviews; while some diners find the modern tasting menu exquisite and creative, others describe the dishes as underwhelming or poorly paced, with occasional inedible courses. Service is generally attentive, though experiences vary. Value is contentious, with some finding it justified and others feeling the cost outweighs the culinary performance. It is a visually spectacular venue where the dining experience may not consistently match the setting.
Suitable for diners prioritizing lake views, but expect variable food quality.