The Lake Garda Restaurant Guide

The Vecchia Malcesine

Via Pisort 6, Malcesine (VR)

Telefono: 0457400469

For more restaurants we recommend visit our Venice and Lake Garda restaurant guide.

Contemporary Mediterranean cooking is how the chef describes his cuisine: traditional with a modern twist. The reputation of this restaurant has grown to such an extent that it now draws people from hundreds of miles around, and you will have to book...

The owner, Leandro Luppi, is one of the best chefs in the whole of the Veneto region, and the way he and his family run the restaurant is testament to their immense passion. Chef Luppi has years of experience and a deep appreciation for local ingredients, and brings a touch of innovation to traditional Italian dishes. His commitment to quality and creativity has earned him a reputation for delivering exceptional flavors that captivate diners. From his signature pasta dishes to his inspired seafood creations, Chef Luppi's culinary expertise shines through in every bite.

Before I even get to some of the fabulous dishes on offer, I must mention the restaurant itself. Housed in a 17th-century villa, the view across Lake Garda has to be seen to be believed.

Sitting at one of the window tables on a summer evening is an unforgettable and indescribable pleasure. Even before the arrival of the wine or food, you feel that life has suddenly taken a turn for the better.

If life was good before the arrival of the food, it becomes positively euphoric afterwards. I would suggest you try the seafood from the lake taster menu; it allows a fabulous sampling of all the lake's seafood.

The Lake Garda tuna is an interesting dish and unlike anything I have ever had before. It is not tuna, which, being a saltwater fish, is not found in the lake. Amazingly, it is carp, but Leandro has found a way to not only make this fish edible but very tasty too. The way it is served is also very different, but I will leave that surprise for you to discover if you visit.

Don't you want so much seafood? Try the area menu, which features many local classics like polenta and gnocchi, and for the brave, there is also snail, something I love but Maria can’t stand. This menu is really great value.

Some other dishes I recommend...

These may not be on the menu, which is very seasonal, and often the dish itself may vary slightly. However, if you see any of these, or similar, on the menu, I recommend giving a few of them a try:

Risotto al Pesce Persico: This specialty dish combines the creamy goodness of risotto with the delicate flavor of freshwater perch. The Arborio rice is expertly cooked to perfection, absorbing the flavors of the fish and creating a rich and comforting dish.

Baccalà Mantecato: A true delicacy, this dish features salted cod that has been carefully prepared and whipped to a creamy texture. Served with warm polenta or grilled bread, the Baccalà Mantecato is a delightful and flavorful appetizer that highlights the restaurant's mastery of seafood.

Casoncelli alla Bergamasca: Originating from the nearby Bergamo region, these handmade stuffed pasta pockets are a true treat for the taste buds. The casoncelli are typically filled with a combination of meat, cheese, and herbs and served with a luscious butter and sage sauce, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

Filetto di Manzo al Pepe Verde: For meat lovers, this dish is a must-try. Tender beef fillet is cooked to perfection and topped with a savory green peppercorn sauce, providing a delightful contrast of flavors. Served with roasted potatoes or seasonal vegetables, it's a dish that promises to satisfy any carnivorous craving.

Getting Here

Getting to The Vecchia Malcesine restaurant is easy and convenient. Located at Via Pisort 6 in Malcesine, the restaurant is nestled within the charming streets of this picturesque Italian town. If you're arriving by car, you can find parking nearby, allowing you to easily access the restaurant.

For those using public transportation, the restaurant is within walking distance of the Malcesine bus station, making it easily accessible for visitors from all around.

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