Restaurants

Restaurants crowned with stars, forks and toques by the most important gourmet guidebooks are very much part of Ticino’s gastronomic tradition. Chefs pay homage to the unique produce of the region, harmoniously balancing respect for tradition with a spirit of innovation.

But Ticino is also all about traditional cooking – once again closely linked to local produce. The best place in which to savour traditional Ticino cuisine is in one of the “grotti”, inns that originated as cool cellars excavated from the rock. Seated outdoors at a granite table, or in a dining room in front of a crackling fire, you will be served dishes such as a traditional polenta or a mixed platter of cured meats and cheeses – accompanied, of course, by a glass of good Merlot.