Above: Il Verbano's terrace with a view of Lake Maggiore, Isola dei Pescatori - GIUSEPPE GEPPO DI MAURO

Among the northern Italian Lakes, it is not quite as easy to stumble upon excellent casual trattorias as in many other regions of Italy. Nevertheless, there is no shortage of talented chefs making use of lake fish, heirloom Fassona beef and seasonal produce, as evidenced by the area’s many Michelin stars. Stuffed pastas such as tortellini and ravioli make regular appearances. And the mesmerizing water or vineyard views afforded by many restaurants never fail to add to the pleasure of the experience. (The following restaurants are organized west to east, grouped according to lake.)

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Above: Il Verbano's terrace with a view of Lake Maggiore, Isola dei Pescatori - GIUSEPPE GEPPO DI MAURO

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Islands of the Italian Lakes 5 Notable Gardens Amid the Italian Lakes Top Wineries of the Italian Lakes Classic Hideaways in the Italian Lakes Inside Italy’s Most Sumptuous Resorts Reassessing Classic Hotels in the Italian Lakes New Discoveries Amid the Italian Lakes