The Best Food in Lake Garda and Where To Find It
Meals are central to Italian culture, and as a tourist in Lake Garda, you should never miss the chance to explore the diverse and delicious Italian cuisine. There are countless restaurants in Lake Garda where you can sample an array of traditional specialities, including vegetarian dishes and dishes made with chicken, pork, ham, and, of course, the area’s renowned freshwater fish.
From charming osterias to upscale dining establishments, the food in Lake Garda offers something for every palate, ensuring that your culinary journey will be as memorable as the stunning scenery. In this guide, our experts will highlight the best food and restaurants in Lake Garda, taking you through regional specialities so you know what to expect, and where to find them.
Traditional Food in Lake Garda
The food in Lake Garda is a delicious journey through rich flavours and fresh, local ingredients. Whether you’re a true foodie or just a hungry traveller, knowing what to eat in Lake Garda can transform your visit into an unforgettable culinary adventure.
Before we explore specific dishes, it’s worth knowing about the exquisite local produce that comes from Lake Garda. A speciality product is the olive oil ‘extra virgin D.O.P.’ – it’s a fruity oil, light and delicate, that perfectly accompanies all food in Lake Garda as well as every other Mediterranean dish. The oil is produced in the whole territory around the lake, as the mild climate and steady temperatures suit olive grove cultivation.
Don’t miss ‘Bigoli with Aole,’ a quintessential dish of Lake Garda. Bigoli is a homemade fresh egg pasta, similar in length to penne but distinct in shape, paired with Aole, a freshwater fish caught in the pristine waters of Garda Lake. Another must-try is ‘Trout with Grappa,’ where trout from the lake is cooked using local grappa, a potent spirit made from grape skins, adding a unique flavour.
Other regional specialities include Yota, Frico, Lesso, and Zuppa di Valpelline. Yota is a hearty stew made with beans, sauerkraut, potatoes, ham, and sometimes smoked ribs, often served with a generous amount of garlic. Frico, a delightful cheese crisp, is typically enjoyed as an aperitif. It’s made by coating thinly sliced cheese (Parmesan, Mozzarella, or Montasio) with flour and deep-frying it to perfection. Lesso, a pepper sauce, is a delicious accompaniment to various steamed meats and Zuppa di Valpelline, a comforting cabbage stew, is traditionally served with croutons or dried bread.
For vegetarians, the ‘Wild Berry Risotto’ is a seasonal treat not to be missed. Pair any of these dishes with a glass of Franciacorta, a sparkling wine from the Province of Brescia, to complete your culinary experience. If you know what to eat in Lake Garda before you visit, you’re guaranteed an authentic taste of the region’s heritage and culinary innovation.
The Best Restaurants in Lake Garda
Now that we’ve touched on what the best food in Lake Garda is, it’s time to explore the best restaurants that serve these delicious dishes. We’ve hand-picked our favourites which you can rest assured have all been tried and tested by our resident foodies.
Aqua Ristorante
Looking for restaurants in Lake Garda that combine peace, authenticity, and a stunning view? Aqua Ristorante is your perfect destination. This charming spot offers an unforgettable dining experience with its unconventional dishes and refined atmosphere. Nestled in front of Lake Garda, where mountains meet water, Aqua Ristorante boasts a beautiful wide veranda with spectacular scenery, making it one of the best Lake Garda restaurants with a view.
As you sit down and peruse the menu, you’ll be tempted by dishes like cut black Angus with ‘Monte Baldo’ herb sauce and Pinot Nero, or kamut crab macaroni with fresh tomato and garlic. While the prices are a bit higher, the extraordinary flavours make it worth every penny.
Aqua Ristorante is situated by an enchanting small port that spills into the lake, so when you’re considering where to eat in Lake Garda, don’t hesitate to book your table at one of the best restaurants in Lake Garda, offering not just a meal but a true sensory delight.
Capannina pool bar & restaurant
For those wondering where to eat in Lake Garda, Capannina Pool Bar & Restaurant is a must-visit. Located on the picturesque Via Le Botteghe in the northern Italian province of Trento of the Trentino Alto Adige region, this poolside restaurant offers a spacious and relaxed environment for lunch or dinner near the beach. Just a few steps away from the Piazzetta of Capri, La Capannina has, since its opening in 1931, welcomed a steady stream of celebrities, adding a touch of glamour to your dining experience.
Open from May to September, Capannina specialises in traditional Italian cuisine, including light salads, genuine Neapolitan pizza, grilled meats, and delectable fish dishes. At night, the candle-lit terrace of its sister restaurant, Capannina Pizza & Grill, showcases the natural beauty of the surrounding park, making it one of the best restaurants in Lake Garda for a family meal or romantic dinner.
Whether you’re savouring refreshments, fruit juices, aperitifs, or cocktails from the bar, every moment at Capannina is enjoyable. With meals starting from just €10, this charming spot combines affordability with quality, ensuring a delightful experience for all.
Agritur Madonna delle Vittorie
For a memorable dining experience featuring some of the best food in Lake Garda, Agritur Madonna delle Vittorie is an excellent choice. Located in the northern part of Lago di Garda, this charming agriturismo (Italian farmhouse) offers a delightful taste of the region’s culinary heritage.
The restaurant prides itself on producing its own wines and extra virgin olive oil, which you can sample during your meal and even visit the farm to see where they are made. The lovely outdoor setting is encompassed by tall mountains and features a beautiful garden with rustic tables and chairs, offering one of the best Lake Garda restaurants with a view.
If you’re wondering what’s on the menu, you can expect typical regional dishes such as smoked Trentino burrata with field salad, apple, and berries, or homemade tagliatelle with regional rabbit sauce, olives, and onions. Everything is locally sourced, with the meat coming from their own cattle and the cheese and ham coming from small local farmers. The chefs also enhance the menu daily with special ‘dishes of the day’, making each visit more intriguing and appetising.
When considering where to eat in Lake Garda, Agritur Madonna delle Vittorie stands out for its delicious food and enchanting ambience. Be sure to book ahead to secure a table outside and fully enjoy the dining experience at one of the best restaurants in Lake Garda.
Osteria al Pescatore
For an authentic taste of food in Lake Garda, Osteria al Pescatore in Castelletto di Brenzone is a hidden gem on the eastern shore of Lake Garda. This cosy restaurant is owned by Livio and Rosaria, a couple who have spent their lives in the region and their passion for exceptional food and service is unmatched.
At Osteria al Pescatore, guests can enjoy a memorable dinner while watching the sunset over the lake. The unique twist? There is no menu! Instead, you’ll savour the freshest catches of the day, from perch and pike to tench, sardines, and eels. The chefs transform these fresh fish into delectable dishes using the famous extra virgin olive oil and fresh herbs from their garden.
When considering where to eat in Lake Garda, Osteria al Pescatore stands out for its warm hospitality, commitment to fresh, local ingredients and its charming setting. The view of the lake adds to the magic, making it one of the best restaurants in Lake Garda for a truly unique dining experience.
Pizza Per Caso
After indulging in the delicious food in Lake Garda, there’s always room for a trusty slice of pizza. For a tasty and relaxed dining experience after a long day travelling around the lake, head to Pizza Per Caso. Located in the southern part of Lake Garda, this hidden gem is worth the visit.
One of the best restaurants in Lake Garda for pizza lovers, Pizza Per Caso offers very unique flavour combinations. Try their pizza with pumpkin sauce, caramelised apple with cinnamon, and parma ham for an unusual yet mouthwatering taste. If you’re unsure what to order, ask the waiter to select pizzas for you – you won’t be disappointed. Enhance your meal with their house sparkling white wine for a complete experience.
If you’re craving a hearty pizza and are considering where to eat in Lake Garda, Pizza Per Caso is the place to be. The charming ambience and amazing pizzas make it a top destination for ending a day of exploration with a satisfying meal.
Tips for Visiting Restaurants in Lake Garda
If you keep these tips in mind, you’re guaranteed a lovely and culturally enriching dining experience in Lake Garda. Enjoy the wonderful food, the breathtaking views, and the warm hospitality that this beautiful region has to offer.
Best Times to Eat Out
When going out for food in Lake Garda, timing is key to enjoying a seamless dining experience. Most restaurants in Lake Garda open for lunch around 12:30 PM and close by 2:30 PM. Dinner service typically starts at 6:00 PM and extends until 10:00 PM.
If you want to enjoy a quieter meal, consider dining slightly earlier, around opening times, as this is when restaurants are less crowded. However, if you wish to soak in the local atmosphere and dine alongside residents, aim for 8:00 PM onwards, which is the peak dining time.
Reservation Tips
Given the popularity of many dining spots, especially the best restaurants in Lake Garda, making a reservation is highly recommended. This is particularly true for dinners, weekends, and peak tourist seasons. Booking a table a few days in advance can save you from long waits and ensure you get a seat with a stunning view. For special occasions or highly sought-after restaurants, consider reserving a week or more ahead. Many restaurants offer online booking options, which can be convenient for travellers.
Summary
Exploring the best food in Lake Garda is a culinary adventure you won’t forget. From fresh lake fish and homemade pasta to unique pizzas and delectable desserts, the variety is endless. Whether you’re dining at a charming osteria or a scenic lakeside restaurant, you’ll find delicious traditional specialities that showcase the region’s rich culinary heritage.
Keep in mind the best times to visit restaurants in Lake Garda and don’t forget to make reservations, especially for those popular spots with stunning views. This way, you’ll be able to enjoy the flavours, appreciate the ambience, and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones in beautiful Lake Garda. Buon appetito!
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