Trattoria del Popolo In Vespolate

20/07/2025: Let’s start with the positives: the area is beautiful overlooking Lake Orta and the most famous 3 Michelin star in the region. From the moment you park at the designated car park for the restaurant, you will walk through their organic garden where they get all their fruit, veg and herbs. We came for lunch and ate outside which was a real vibe as we took in the view. Even if it rains, most tables are protected by the above trees which created an even more romantic setting. Now the negatives: I thought the food was very average; especially considering the high prices. La Darbia is clearly going for a Michelin star given the service, location and prices but there is a reason they don’t have one in my opinion. We had the tasting menu which is 5 course meal, and tried both the vegetarian and meat options. I thought the pasta course was the best followed by the dessert. The other courses I will forget about by next week, average at best. I will also stress than my partner’s vegetarian menu was better than the meat one. Service was good, staff mostly spoke English. Professional service. Overall: it was an ok meal, an amazing atmosphere but wouldn’t go back.

17/07/2025: Llegamos sin ninguna expectativa específica, ya que no estábamos familiarizados con el lugar, pero nos quedamos completamente impresionados por el personal excepcional, el entorno impresionante, el ambiente cálido y acogedor, y la comida exquisita acompañada de menús de vinos perfectamente maridados con y sin alcohol.