On holiday, feeling good also means eating well. That’s not something you can improvise! To discover the culinary traditions and best restaurants in any place you need to inform yourself well before leaving, studying the most representative dishes, the most common dining habits and - most importantly - where to eat. There are many portals and websites that compare reviews and prices, but let's face it, nothing can replace local advice.
So here are 5 different places to experience an unforgettable holiday (for your palate!)
La Terrazza – Torbole
The name already reveals one of the characteristics that makes this restaurant a gem. From “La Terrazza” you can admire Lake Garda while dining by candlelight on a terrace. But we don't recommend it just for the view! Eating here means immersing yourself in traditional Garda cuisine and discovering all the secrets of freshwater fish. The chef recommends whitefish carpaccio with fresh tomato and basil, chub fishballs, torbolana bigoli, Lake Garda fish with Monte Baldo truffle, all accompanied by a good glass of Garda wine.
Piè di Castello – Cologna
If you are looking for a traditional trattoria, with wooden tables and chairs, you are in the right place. It is located in an ancient house that dates back to 1663, while the trattoria was first opened at the end of the nineteenth century by Eugenio and Giuseppina Benini. The main specialty is an iconic Garda dish: carne salada, born from the farmer custom of putting meat in salt to preserve it longer. Try it with a drizzle of EVO oil from Garda: you'll tell us what you think!
Al Volt – Riva del Garda
Beyond the San Marco gate, steps away from the historic center, you’ll find “Al Volt” restaurant. The atmosphere, lights, and service are truly special. If you want to surprise your partner with a romantic dinner, you are in the right place. The menu features both traditional dishes and fish from the Mediterranean sea, and you can then continue your evening discovering the streets of Riva del Garda.
Le servite – Arco
An ancient convent once stood here; nowadays, you’ll find a restaurant with tables in the vineyards, where you can smell the scent of this land. In addition to the well-stocked cellar with wines produced in local vineyards, the chef recommends cured meats and cheeses, fresh homemade pastas and homemade desserts, which seem to have come straight from the kitchen of an old house.
Peter Brunel – Arco
“Certain memories are enough to perfume a soul forever.” Peter Brunel welcomes you like this, making it clear that you come here not just to eat, but to have a 360° experience. Chef Peter Brunel, originally from Val di Fassa and Michelin-starred since 2003, designed these spaces to maximize the concept of hospitality that guests - especially couples - look for when they open the door of this restaurant. We recommend the signature dishes, such as “Lofoten Memory” (marinated anchovies, sea water, herring roe, piquillo pepper) or “Cabbage Rice” (rice, apple, purple cabbage and truffle pearls).
If you need more advice, just ask us at Team Oleeva Garda Living!