The Aperol Spritz: perfect for an Italian summer evening
Located in an old grotto situated on on the lake, Crotto dei Platani is a charming and romantic restaurant with great outdoor spaces as well as a natural grotto. It was a 20 minute drive from Cernobbio, where I was staying, but well worth the drive. It was one of the most memorable meals of the trip.
The exterior of Crotto dei Platani
In the summer, it’s all about dining on the restaurant’s panoramic veranda and garden. When I visited, it was raining, so we ate in the covered patio overlooking the lake.
The gorgeous view of the lake from Crotto dei Platani
The food was delicious. The menu focuses on fish caught in the lake, offering dishes like Mixed Lake Fish Hors d’oeuvres (€ 14) and White Fish Tartare with Black truffle (€ 18). We had the Assorted Salami with Vinegar Vegetables (€ 14) which was delicious and paired nicely with Italy’s summer cocktail of choice, the Aperol Spritz.
Pea soup with crispy black rice and citrus cream was € 13
Next I had the fresh Pea Soup, which was fresh, light and delicious and had a lovely texture with the black rice and citrus cream. It hit the spot on a rainy evening.
The Assorted Salami with Vinegar Vegatables was a winner
We moved on to a bottle of Tignanello Super Tuscan before our mains arrived. I went for the house made Pasta with Tomato Sauce, Buffalo Mozzarella and Eggplant (€ 13). It was served al dente and had the correct sauce-to-pasta ratio.
Left: The house made pasta Right: Beef with foie gras and red wine sauce
My husband loved the Beef with Foie Gras and Red Wine Sauce (€ 23). We usually skip dessert, we couldn’t pass up the Peach Semifreddo with raspberries and honey (€ 8). It was worth the splurge.
Our waiter turned our wine cork into a key ring souvenir
With excellent service, great atmosphere, and fantastic food, Crotto dei Platani is a great choice for a special occasion or romantic dinner. You can even arrange to arrive by water taxi.
The docks outside Crotto dei Platani lit up at night
Via Regina, 73
22010 Brienno (CO),
SS 340, km 16
T: (+39) 031 814038
E: info@crottodeiplatani.it