There are many quality places to choose from when eating out in the city because the Lago Maggiore restaurants are famous for their mouthwatering dishes and are worth stopping by for lunch or dinner. Strolling around and determining where to have the next meal is one of the best ways to spend a day soaking up the culture and atmosphere. It is important to remember that Siesta is taken quite seriously in this area and it can be difficult to find a place with an open kitchen between meals (2 p.m. to 6 p.m.).       

La Pescheria

This is a charming but somewhat expensive place to eat locally fresh caught fish, prepared in a variety of ways with the freshest available ingredients. The restaurant has dining areas in an open garden and terraces with views of the south bank of the lake. It makes for a very romantic and ‘Italian’ experience. The fish ‘tortelloni’ with buttery soft fresh pasta and the fried perch with fresh herbs are resounding favorites.

Elvezia

This is the first restaurant you will see to when arriving by boat. This establishment is owned and operated by a kind and helpful family whose warmth extends from the kitchen. The lake fish preparation here is outstanding and homemade pasta ‘primi’ dishes are impossible to refuse. The restaurant is slightly more expensive than average but the location and hospitality make it worth spending the extra money!

LIDO

This restaurant capitalizes on its location with a glassed-in dining room optimizing the view of the lake. Serving staff are very friendly and the food is outstanding, prepared perfectly, simply, and with no unnecessary seasoning--just fresh, complimentary flavors. Recommended dishes include: Antipasto (fish and shrimp in sauce) and the Gnocchi in tomato sauce and mozzarella.

La Gratto

Centrally located just off of the main street in downtown Arona, this is a small local restaurant where no English spoken. It attracts a different crowd from the more tourist-oriented places. There is no menu just a choice between fish or seafood. A 4-course meal (including all the wine you can drink), will cost between $31 and $40. Every meal has been incredibly varied and ingredients are always fresh. This restaurant proposes great value for the money and, with it, an authentic ‘Italian’ experience.

Taverna del Pappagallo

This popular restaurant in Stresa is primarily filled with local diners vying for their slice of pizza. The kitchen is family-run and turns out highly reputable and personally recommended homemade gnocchi and grilled sausages. The garden provides a soft-lit open-air dining experience when the weather is good.