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Casual Food

Locanda Il Grifo

A centuries-old inn on Lake Como, in the heart of the Tremezzina, Il Grifo, or the griffin, was historically the symbol of the fighting ships of the Isola Comacina allied with Milan against the people of Como and the Emperor Barbarossa. The griffin on the bow of the ship, then made of wood, stood at the entrance to the nearby inn owned by Antonio Bianchi and Maria Salice and gave its name to the place. Later, as the wood deteriorated, this was replaced by a wrought iron griffin, which is still displayed on the facade of the inn.

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The Locanda is a typical lakeside restaurant that can boast a centuries-old culinary tradition handed down from generation to generation, and it keeps the memory of Il Grifo alive. At the entrance, behind the bar, is a 1957 fresco by Bruno Azimonti that recalls the naval battles fought opposite Isola Comacina, with Il Grifo in the front line. The inn is less than one kilometre from centre of Lenno, from which you can take a boat ride on a wonderful trip around the centre of the lake to admire the beautiful villages of Bellagio, Tremezzo, Menaggio and Varenna.

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Today the fourth generation is in charge, that is to say the Bordoli sisters. Elena is 30 years old and through her training and years of experience, including as a private chef, has introduced new dishes that are much appreciated by the customers, with a varied menu of meticulously presented food. Alice, 40, has always worked in the hotel industry and now runs the inn itself. They create a link of continuity with their mother Tiziana and Uncle Antonio, their grandmother Vittorina who is still present, and also the generations that went before, deciding to keep traditional dishes on the menu. The dishes have been served for over a hundred years, and include the likes of the antipasto di lago or Paradello.

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In September 2022, the Locanda del Grifo involved its km0 suppliers in a village festival. The band (part of the Vittorio Veneto music corps) entertained everyone during the day and world-renowned pianist Louis Lortie played on a grand piano positioned in the historic square. The village festival will be repeated every September to celebrate traditional and good food made in Italy.