Ristorante Belvedere

Ristorante Belvedere is a classic lakeside restaurant on the Isola dei Pescatori, the only permanently inhabited of the Borromean Islands, reached by a short boat ride from Stresa on Lake Maggiore. The setting is the heart of the appeal: a waterside terrace at the edge of a tiny fishing village, with views across the lake to the gardens of Isola Bella and the mountains beyond, making lunch or dinner here as much about the scene as the plate. True to its island location, the kitchen specialises in Lake Maggiore fish, with signatures such as lavarello, the local whitefish, risotto with lake fish and fritto misto di lago, the mixed fry of small lake fish, prepared in a straightforward, traditional style. The atmosphere is relaxed and scenic, popular with day-trippers exploring the islands, with friendly service and a wine list of regional and Italian whites suited to the fish. Prices sit in the comfortable mid-to-upper range, reasonable given the unique island setting. The restaurant operates seasonally, broadly from spring to autumn in line with the islands' tourist season and the boat services, so it is closed in the depths of winter. Reservations are recommended for a terrace table, particularly for lunch in high summer when the islands are busiest. Visiting is best combined with a wider tour of the Borromean Islands by boat, taking in Isola Bella's palace and gardens and the artisan shops of the fishermen's island itself.