All of these selections are tried and tested favorites in the Como area.
Harry's Bar
Nice atmosphere at the top of the Riva (lake front area) in Cernobbio. Buzzing, outdoor seating in the warmer months. Definitely a scene, and it is fun.
La Baia
Located lake-side in Moltrasio. A former Villa d'Este chef serves up some delicious entrees. There is very little parking, which is the only thing keeping me from going more often. However, If you are a visitor and being dropped off by a taxi or driver; it's a lovely evening.
Trattoria del Glicine
The Pozzi family has been operating this charming and consistently delicious hillside restaurant for almost 20 years. Known for all sorts of game, Glicine does fish, pastas and Italian classics equally well. In other words; everyone likes it. A favorite of the social locals and return visitors (at a recent fabric fair it seemed that the restaurant was on everyone’s lips). For a few weeks in early Spring the large terrace which is rooved in lilac hued wisteria is pure magic (as shown in the photo above). The art filled dining room is warm, and by eyeing your chic fellow diners you know you are in the right place. Open daily for Lunch & dinner.
Gatto Nero
The famous black cat is still going strong. A lovely atmosphere with views of the lake from above. It is a few twisty curvy turns up the Cernobbio mountain side to arrive but once there, it feels special. Menu offerings include: pastas, fish, meats, risottos.
Kitchen
Run by a famous local and friend of George who left Gatto Nero to start his new venture; Kitchen. The restaurant is situated on the grounds of the Sheraton hotel, but is separate, and surrounded by a beautiful garden. Especially the big, blue hydrangeas. I go just to walk by these bad boys once Summer is in full swing. The decor inside is well done and even though this spot is just off the road you are truly immersed in an oasis. The food is solid & good.
Osteria del Beuc
For a "pranzo lavoro", this is the place to go. They offer one or two dishes (one main dish or both primo & secondo) along with a half carafe of wine, water & caffe all for one price. Usually around 11 euros. The food choices are on the rustic side and written on a chalk board. You'll see lots of locals in the mix. On high season weekends the menu pricing changes to a la carte. Open for Lunch or dinner.
Lido di Cernobbio (Lunch)
The Cernobbio Lido overlooks not only the lake itself but has a big blue pool and views of Villa Erba next door. Outdoor dining in the summer poolside. The pizza has always been good, but the addition of fresh salads has improved their offerings. I usually eat here when I am enjoying the day at the Lido, but it is open to the public to simply visit the restaurant.
Trattoria 27 Maggio
A bit out of the way in San Fermo, but excellent Greek food if you've had your fill of Italian dishes. They have lots of parking and in the warmer weather you can sit outside overlooking the piazza.
La Piazzetta
For an authentic Aperitivo or "Apero" in Cernobbio. Sip an Aperol Spritz with complimentary nibbles surrounded by flowers in this floral shop by day, lounge by night. It's pretty and fragrant in this charming outdoor space and is just steps outside the Villa d'Este gates.
La Piazzetta
Same name, but this one is a full restaurant serving lunch & dinner in the adorable Argegno piazza. The pizza is great, but they have an expansive menu with delicious pastas, risottos, fish of the day and so on. A well run and well known restaurant.
Materia
A new, modern spot run by young foodies. The menu & wines are very good. The only caveat is that it is in an unremarkable location, on a side street in Cernobbio alongside local businesses. The inside is minimal and cool, but you could be anywhere. If you've had enough lake front or lake view meals, then give it a try.