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Il Crotto del Lago, nestled in the picturesque setting of Cima, Italy, offers a delightful culinary experience that continues to enchant its visitors. Patrons rave about the exquisite local dishes meticulously presented to showcase the region's richness. Adina Dudau captures the essence, noting the gorgeous food paired with a stellar house wine and breathtaking views, making each meal memorable.
Significantly, the Pizzoccheri, a traditional dish, has garnered accolades for its authentic taste—an essential for anyone visiting. Grace Kotnik describes it as some of the best she's ever had, a sentiment echoed by many. Moreover, the unique buckwheat cake has left a lasting impression, though it can be a fleeting delight. The restaurant's ambiance, whether dining al fresco with lake views or enjoying the cozy interior, adds to the overall charm.
Admir Murguz's experience with the braised beef cheeks exemplifies the flavorful offerings, paired with a side of innovative polenta and heavenly tiramisu, hailed as possibly the best ever. With friendly staff fluent in both Italian and English, Il Crotto del Lago has proven to be a welcoming spot that blends flavor and hospitality seamlessly.
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Amenities & More
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Takeout
- Dine-in
- Delivery
Highlights
- Rooftop seating
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Counter service
- Dessert
- Seating
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
- Wi-Fi
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Transgender safespace
Reviews for Il Crotto del Lago
Review highlights
Based on 808 reviewsIl Crotto del Lago is widely praised for its authentic Italian cuisine, particularly local specialties such as pizzoccheri, braised beef cheeks, and house-made desserts like tiramisu and buckwheat cake. Reviewers consistently highlight the high quality and beautiful presentation of the dishes, complemented by a cozy atmosphere and scenic waterside location. The restaurant is noted for its attentive and friendly service, with many guests appreciating the option to dine outdoors. While the menu offers a variety of seafood and traditional Italian fare, the overall consensus reflects a satisfying dining experience that encourages repeat visits. Patrons frequently commend the value offered, balancing a delightful culinary experience with reasonable pricing.
Fantastic experience at Il Crotto del Lago! Gorgeous food, local dishes beautifully presented, and very reasonable, too! The house wine was a delight, as well, as was the view!
This place is fantastic! Went for a first time and then had to go back again a few days later. The Pizzoccheri are incredible, some of the best I’ve ever tasted and don’t even get me started on the buckwheat cake, my new favorite dessert. I was so sad they didn’t have it the second time we went. The first time we sat outside as it was a lovely day, the service was fantastic and many waiters speak both Italian and English, it was perfect for our mixed dinner party. The lake view is very nice and inside the restaurant is also very cute! The second time they even gave us a free pasta sample and some amazing limoncello (pictured below) after our meal. This has quickly become my new favorite restaurant!
Absolutely delicious food, great service and cozy atmosphere. I had the braised beef cheeks with polenta, with some grilled vegetables on the side, and it was delicious. I was surprised by the polenta however, it was mixed with something else than just corn polenta, but it was great! The tiramisu was amazing and possibly the best I've ever had. We will be visiting again before going home for sure.
The food was really fantastic, the staff were very friendly, and we had a wonderful evening with a beautiful view! Thinking about coming back tomorrow!
Very much enjoyed the lunch. Nice place by the water, with a good menu, lots of seafood but also a delicious ravioli and very nice tiramisu. The first time we came to this place was 4 years ago, and it hasn't changed much.
Fantastic place on the shore of Lake Lugano specialized in local dishes, but they also have a good selection of meat and sea fish. The prices are very reasonable. They also have decent red and white table wine for a very good price. The servers are very efficient and friendly. If you'd like to sit by the lake I would highly recommend reserving in advance.
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Quick info
Opening hours
- Monday Closed
- Tuesday 12:00 AM - 2:30 PM 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
- Wednesday (Today) 12:00 AM - 2:30 PM 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
- Thursday 12:00 AM - 2:30 PM 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
- Friday 12:00 AM - 2:30 PM 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
- Saturday 12:00 AM - 2:30 PM 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
- Sunday 12:00 AM - 2:30 PM 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
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