Crotto dei Platani

It’s spring. Well, almost. Colours, scents and smells make you want to go see your friend George, and to go out with him for lunch. And then you find yourself in Brienno, at number 73 of Via Regina. Like a diamond, Crotto dei Platani restaurant is literally embedded in rock, between Lake Como and Mount Gringo.

A porch that promises confidentiality, with a breathtaking view. Then a garden of flowers and plane trees and a small terrace to dominate all courtyard, which is also decorated, but with passion flower. A romantic touch, only for green lovers. And could it possibly lack a small pier? With a boat dock, intimate and special, for those looking for discretion. In a word? Secret. Yes, this is the word that best defines this wonderful place.

An old crotto (cave), perfect for hiding, since the thirties of the twentieth century. Headquarters of the most heinous smugglers of the area who, to escape the law, disguised themselves between woodsmen and locals. And to these days it still appears as a hidden retreat, where you can be pampered and spoiled by experienced and professional hands. A tribute to Manzoni, even though he mentions very little of this branch, or nothing at all. But what matters, is the reverberation of his romanticising of lakes and places. Landscape for lake  and mountains lovers, where the eye gets lost and dreams of faraway countries.

Accurate service, no, impeccable. Pampered like in a five star hotel: refilled glasses, never empty. Immaculate uniforms: white, black and British green, with brass tips here and there. Classy. Rural influences, but always with style. After all we are in Lake Como. A menu signed by Andrea Cremonesi, Crotto’s creative chef. Young and dynamic flavours, with a hint of innovation, although it mantains a strong link with the local tradition. Would it be possibile to wipe out over a hundred years of culinary culture? Of course not.

Lake dishes, with both meat and fish. But they also meet the taste of the most demanding palates with veggie and healthy proposals. And in the heart of the mountain, what do you think that they jealously guard? Four hundred of the best Italian wine labels. Excellences of our beloved Made in Italy. But don’t be afraid, a diligent sommelier will be ready to guide you in your choice.

And if you love the lake, especially from the inside, then you can not miss their aperitivo on the boat. So, have a good relaxing time on Lake Como. And if you do not want to be found, now you now know where to go!