The best French cuisine restaurants Lacs italiens

In a quiet alleyway in Stresa, here is a small bistro with contemporary lines whose very good cuisine has been winning the loyalty of a local clientele for several years. On the plate, the high quality raw materials blend harmoniously together for a result that gives, among other examples, an excellent knife cut beef tartar, cheese gnocchi, seafood linguine or lamb chops with small vegetables... Wine list, served by the glass, to match the food.

Refined, "old-fashioned", this charming establishment is both a chic bistro and a café. Located a few steps from the Giardini Giusti in the Veronetta district, it is a picturesque stop for a bite to eat away from the crowds, especially during the summer. Ice cream, pastries and drinks are served at tea time, while carefully prepared plates await you at dinner time. Among the dishes to try: beef tartar, spaghetti bolognese, but also snails, cheese and cold cuts.

Al Frate is a bit like the historical brewery of Brescia, characteristic in its decoration and in its cuisine which excels in regional specialities. Although the quality of the food is not to be blamed, it is a pity that the service is sometimes a little slow. It is therefore better not to be in a hurry. The cutting boards of cold meats and cheeses are excellent, with quality products. The osso buco is to be tried, it's a real delight! And the plates, in addition to being appetizing, are well stocked. Nice service

A small neighbourhood bistro run by two sisters and frequented by a clientele of regulars. The setting is informal but neat with wicker chairs, wooden tables, exposed beams and brick vaults, but a few orchids give it a certain style. There is a set menu for lunch and an à la carte menu in the evening, for a healthy and traditional cuisine. The plus: the selection of vegetarian or vegan dishes and gluten-free pizzas for those who prefer. In short, a place that's got it all and where you're sure to bring out satisfied taste buds.

It's impossible not to come across the Donizetti in the heart of the Ville Haute. Part bistro, part wine bar, this place pays tribute to the Bergamo composer in the best possible way: with tastings of products from the local culinary tradition. As an aperitif, try a platter of taleggio cheese or Bergamo sausage, accompanied by excellent Franciacorta vintages. For a more substantial meal, choose a dish of casoncelli or polenta with cheese or boletus, to be enjoyed indoors in the vaulted hall or under the medieval arbour outside.

This is the only restaurant on the island of San Giulio, and it sometimes relies a little too heavily on its enviable position and monopoly. Nevertheless, it remains an address that serves honest cuisine, highlighting traditional recipes in a simple manner. There is sometimes a bit of a wait, as you won't be the only one eager to enjoy the setting... But of course, the breathtaking view of the lake from the shaded terrace is worth a meal in itself.

A little set back from the lakeside and its tourist traps, it is said that Le Boeuc has been serving drinks to the local bon vivants since the 17th century. And the atmosphere hasn't changed much since then: at the same time cellar, wine bar and bistro, it's in the small room with exposed stones and beams that you'll be served copious plates of cheese, cold meats, bruschettas as well as nourishing soups. And all you have to do is choose one of the many bottles in the cellar. Perfect for an aperitif or a different meal.

Good Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and Ticino wines served on long stone tables and under a beautiful arbour, overlooking the rooftops of Bellinzona. When the weather's bad, you can take refuge in the vaulted dining room, which isn't quite as welcoming. You'll appreciate the diversity of the menu: on the land side with pork ravioli with mushrooms, on the sea side with octopus, the catch of the day... Dishes and a vegan à la carte menu for those who wish. Finish with a selection of cheeses and/or dessert, accompanied by a fine wine list.

Giardino is a good restaurant slightly hidden at the foot of the Castelgrande castle. Although neat, the interior room lacks charm, but in summer the terrace at the back is a real delight. Surrounded by a few palm trees and vines, you can enjoy homemade ravioli with Jerusalem artichoke cream, a lacquered duck with chestnut honey or a fillet of beef with black truffle cream... For small budgets, pizzas are also excellent. Service is pleasant but a little slow. Nice Ticino wine list.