Best Italian Restaurants in Lake Como

Lake Como isn't just about stunning alpine vistas and elegant villas—it's a place where Italian dining reaches extraordinary heights. Here, traditional Lombard cuisine meets lakeside sophistication, creating restaurants that balance generations-old recipes with modern culinary ambition. Whether you're craving handmade pasta crafted by artisan makers or seeking that perfect family-run trattoria where locals gather nightly, the dining scene around this legendary lake delivers an authenticity that's increasingly rare in tourist destinations.

This guide brings together 10 exceptional Italian restaurants that have earned their stellar reputations through consistently outstanding food and service. Every spot featured here boasts at least 4.5 stars from hundreds of real diners, with an impressive collective average of 4.7 stars. From hidden crottos tucked into hillsides to vibrant piazzas where the pasta is made fresh daily, these aren't just places to eat—they're the kind of memorable dining experiences that make you understand why Italian food culture is revered worldwide. Consider this your insider roadmap to the tables where both visitors and Como residents choose to spend their evenings.

Featured Restaurants

$$$

Crotto del Sergente

★★★★☆

4.5

(2,008 reviews)

Nestled in a historic crotto (traditional cellar) in Como, this atmospheric restaurant has won over more than 2,000 diners with its authentic Italian charm and varied menu offerings. The combination of the unique cave-like setting and consistently high-quality cuisine makes it a favorite among both locals and travelers seeking a memorable dining experience. Book ahead during peak season as this popular spot fills quickly, and arrive hungry to fully enjoy the generous portions that reviewers rave about.

Via Crotto del Sergente, 13, 22100 Como CO, Italy

View Map Website

$

Passion Como

★★★★☆

4.9

(1,405 reviews)

This beloved Como gem has earned its stellar reputation among locals and travelers alike, with nearly 1,500 glowing reviews praising its welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu options at wallet-friendly prices. The consistently high ratings suggest you'll find quality food and genuine hospitality regardless of what you order. Given its popularity and excellent value, consider arriving early during peak dining hours to snag a table without the wait.

Via Adamo del Pero, 35, 22100 Como CO, Italy

View Map Website

$

L'Ora della Pasta

★★★★☆

4.7

(1,239 reviews)

This casual pasta spot in the heart of Como has won over more than a thousand diners with its authentic Italian comfort food at wallet-friendly prices. The impressive 4.7-star rating speaks to consistently delicious homemade pasta dishes that deliver genuine local flavor without the tourist markup. Arrive early during lunch hours to snag a table, as this popular neighborhood gem fills up quickly with both locals and savvy travelers who've discovered its charm.

Via Armando Diaz, 36, 22100 Como CO, Italy

View Map

031 263267

$$

#PiazzaRomaComo APERTO

★★★★☆

4.7

(1,111 reviews)

Located in the heart of Como's main square, this popular spot draws both locals and travelers with its diverse menu offerings and prime people-watching location. With an impressive 4.7-star rating from over a thousand reviews, diners consistently praise the welcoming atmosphere and quality food at reasonable prices. Snag an outdoor table during aperitivo hour to soak up the piazza's vibrant energy while enjoying the extensive selection that caters to varied tastes.

Piazza Roma, 43, 22100 Como CO, Italy

View Map Website

$$

La Tavernetta

★★★★☆

4.7

(863 reviews)

This beloved Como neighborhood bar has earned its stellar 4.7-star rating from over 860 locals and travelers who appreciate its authentic atmosphere and welcoming vibe. It's the kind of place where you can enjoy quality drinks and Italian bar snacks without the tourist-trap prices, making it perfect for an aperitivo or casual evening out. Arrive during the early evening aperitivo hour to experience it like a local and soak up the genuine neighborhood charm that keeps people coming back.

Via Polano, 13, 22100 Como CO, Italy

View Map Website

$$

IL Pacchero 2.0

★★★★☆

4.6

(869 reviews)

This highly-rated gem in Como's city center has earned its stellar 4.6-star reputation from nearly 900 reviews, drawing both locals and travelers with its welcoming atmosphere and quality Italian fare. Guests consistently praise the authentic flavors and attentive service that make it a standout choice in the area. Book ahead during peak dinner hours, as its popularity means tables fill up quickly, especially on weekends.

Via Luigi Cadorna, 23, 22100 Como CO, Italy

View Map Website

$$

Pastificio Voglia di Pasta

★★★★☆

4.8

(655 reviews)

This beloved Como gem lives up to its name with fresh, house-made pasta that has earned an impressive 4.8-star rating from over 650 delighted diners. Travelers consistently praise the authentic Italian flavors and welcoming atmosphere that makes it a local favorite rather than just another tourist spot. Located conveniently on Via Manzoni, it offers excellent value for money, though arriving early or making a reservation is wise given its well-deserved popularity.

Via Alessandro Manzoni, 18, 22100 Como CO, Italy

View Map Website

$$

Da Noi

★★★★☆

4.7

(308 reviews)

This beloved Como neighborhood spot has earned its stellar 4.7-star rating from over 300 diners who praise its welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu that caters to varied tastes. Travelers consistently highlight the warm, local vibe and quality preparations that make it feel like dining at a friend's place, hence the name "Da Noi" (At Our Place). With its mid-range prices and popularity among both locals and visitors, booking ahead is wise, especially for dinner service when the cozy space fills quickly.

Via Lambertenghi, 24, 22100 Como CO, Italy

View Map Website

Culinary Experiences in Lake Como

Discover food tours, cooking classes, and unique dining experiences