Croce Bianca

A short walk from the fairytale village and its postcard-perfect view of the lake and the island of San Giulio, the setting of this three-star restaurant is no less dazzling: a late nineteenth-century villa in Moorish style, an aristocratic dwelling where the Crespi family life unfolded, as imposing in its exterior appearance as it is fascinating in its interior rooms. Here the veranda offers glimpses and plays of natural light, while the other three rooms are embellished with elaborate ceilings and marvelous parquet floors. Today the star of the villa is Antonino Cannavacciuolo, a brilliant c

Situated in the historic centre of one of the most romantic lakeside villages in Italy, and offering a picture-postcard view of bygone days, this small building houses a contemporary-style restaurant with a small private dining room and three romantic outdoor terraces (book well in advance). The cuisine here is creative and precise, with a menu that features fish and seafood alongside top-quality meat from the Piedmont. Each recipe is personalised, often focusing on contrasting flavours and textures (don’t miss the unstructured elderberry crêpe with pollen and pan brioche). The wine list is ov

Set on the shores of the lake within the elegant hotel of the same name – now approaching its centenary after careful renovations – this restaurant boasts splendid views that extend as far as the Island of San Giulio. The cuisine is Mediterranean (try the beef bavette with red and yellow pepper sauce), with the occasional imaginative flourish (such as Carnaroli risotto with basil, black lemon, and purple shrimp). For an aperitif or after-dinner drink, a stop at the Roof Top Bar is recommended. In addition to cocktails, the wine cellar is also well stocked.

A pleasant and colourful restaurant in the village centre, divided into several dining rooms. The owner-chef prepares a range of eclectic dishes with passion and enthusiasm, offering a menu which includes meat dishes alongside fish options (salt- and freshwater), as well as a few regional specialities.

Situated on the lakefront in the attractive town of Pella, this modern and welcoming restaurant occupies an old building which has been restored and furnished with a stylish and harmonious decor. Offering simpler options at lunchtime, the restaurant serves traditional cuisine reinterpreted and presented with a contemporary flavour. A lounge, garden, swimming pool and 11 guestrooms add to the exclusive appeal.

Within the confines of the small, charming Verbano hotel on the beautiful island of Pescatori, chef Marco Sacco serves top-quality cuisine in what can only be described as a stunning setting. The contemporary-style dining room boasts panoramic windows, while the outdoor terrace with its views of Palazzo Borromeo and Isola Bella is the perfect setting for dinner in fine weather.

Situated on a small square with an attractive outdoor space, this restaurant offers a menu which features fish from the lake and other seasonal produce prepared with both modern and traditional techniques, but always with a contemporary flair. The focus is on locally sourced (zero-mile, wherever possible) produce.