Il Crotto del Lago In Porlezza

We had the absolute pleasure of dining here recently. The food was amazing, the views stunning and the wine delicious. We look forward to visiting again next time we are on that side of the world!

You arrive on the lakefront of Lake Lugano on the Italian side and can be reached from Como or Switzerland. I recommend going through the Ponte Tresa customs checkpoint from Italy (set your GPS for Ponte Tresa and then for Crotto to avoid a detour). If you're arriving from Switzerland, you'll arrive before Porlezza; from Italy, after Porlezza and the tunnel. The restaurant has two internal parking spaces, going down a short private road towards the lake and also above the road. The lake view from a seat is priceless, and the food is divine. Perch ravioli number one, pike number two, but everything was delicious, even the pistachio cream. Boat access is also available! With a private dock, divine desserts made by Pasticceria Italia in Porlezza. (go here too) We will DEFINITELY be back.

Very nice location, quiet, pleasant.

Today, May 9, 2026, I went to this restaurant with my friend. A simple place, but an oasis directly above the lake. Beautiful! Very good food and service too -> very kind people, which is not so obvious these days.

Nice place, good food, outside parking is recommended

As luck would have it, after visiting Villa Fogazzaro we called the Crotto to ask if there was room for four 😽 ...it was after 1:00 PM, so we weren't expecting much, but fate would have it that, due to a last-minute cancellation, we ended up here. Congratulations on the food, the service, and the bucolic location. You deserve a 5⭐ and we'll definitely be back to enjoy a few kilos of meat 😸

Superb restaurant on all levels: cuisine, service…

A lovely venue, just steps from the lake. Lovely outdoor area for enjoying lunch and dinner in the warmer months. Excellent quality food served by knowledgeable and helpful staff. Good wine selection. Various menu. Medium to high priced. Recommended.

Great selection and excellent quality Fantastic location Highly recommended

We had lunch here, and the experience was truly excellent in every way. The location is very well-maintained and pleasant, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the moment. The food was excellent, with well-prepared, high-quality dishes, and the service was attentive, friendly, and professional. A place definitely worth a visit: we'll definitely be back!