The freshly harvested lettuce is still carried in linen sacks at Trattoria Riolet above the Gardone Riviera. The family restaurant is known for its simple, honest, fresh cuisine.

Join the many locals sitting on white plastic chairs under old sun blinds between fig and olive trees. The herbs and salads come directly from the garden, the pasta is fresh and homemade. The heart of the Trattoria is the grill, above which an old olive tree ladder hangs on the wall like a giant snake that seems to hope that a few of the best pieces wonder directly from the grill into her wide open mouth.

For more than 30 years, Ernesto has been grilling fish and a lot of meat – on Sundays and public holidays ‘spiedos’ can be ordered in advance (a skewer that is typical of the region). All grilled dishes are simple and good, the pasta is excellent, especially the stuffed ravioli with sage. Ernesto’s wife Guisy runs the show.

Up here the rhythm of life slows down instantly. From the terrace you have a beautiful view of the Isola di Garda and Lake Garda.

Address: Via Fasano Sopra, 75; 25083 Gardone Riviera (BS)
Tel: 0039 036520545
Open: Thursday – Tuesday 12.00- 14.00 and 19.00 – 22.00, closed Wednesday