July 2013 - Grand Hotel Tremezzo

Dining in the Italian LakesLOCAL SPECIALTIES IN THE LAKES FEATURE A VARIETYof freshwater fish, including perch (persico), tench (tinca),shad (missoltini) and lavaret (a species of whitefish). The localpolenta is renowned, as is the tangy Bagoss cow’s milk cheesefrom the region around Brescia. Here is a selection of myfavorite eating places, plus one to miss:CROTTO DEI PLATANI — This delightful lakeside establishmentis an ideal choice on a warm summer evening when youwant an outdoor setting and contemporary Italian cooking. Themenu changes seasonally, but dishes such as delicate raviolistuffed with perch, and rack of lamb with a pistachio crumbcrust illustrate the kitchen’s undoubted talent.VIA REGINA 73, BRIENNO. TEL. (39) 031-814-038.RISTORANTE AL CAMINO — Perched on a hillside with fineviews over Lake Maggiore, this rustic osteria has conspicuouslycharming and friendly service. Try local dishes such as lambprosciutto, and white polenta with Gorgonzola. Finish up with awarm slice of red-fruit crostatta, the open-face jam tart madeby all Italian grandmothers.VIA PER COMNAGO 30, LESA. TEL. (39) 0322-7471.TERRAZZA BARCHETTA — With a charming terrace on oneof the side streets leading up from the port, this is one of theJuly 2013 | hideaway report27