off to northern italy (Lake Orta area), need recommendations!

[lzcrane]

Leaving tomorrow for Italy -- first a brief trip to Milan, and then a week in the Lake Region. Staying in Lake Orta area (east of Maggiore, west of Lugano). All/most of the restaurant recommendations on chowhound are from 1+ years ago -- many longer.

Any updated restaurant recommendations -- all types! -- would be appreciated!

[glbtrtr]

If you are down at Lake Garda - little harbor town of Desenzano at the south western corner of the lake - try both Osteria Croce d 'Or and La Contrada ( amarone risotto***) for wonderful "Slow Food" dining experiences.

[jinx]

In Lago d'Orta, we had a good seafood meal with a spectacular view/setting at the Restaurante Leon D'Oro, right on the waterfront at the main piazza. Honestly I remember the setting more than the food, but I don't recall having any complaints! http://www.orta.net/leondoro/gb_risto...

Also, a good meal was had at Olina, although no view here.

[mbfant]

I haven't been for several years but Al Sorriso in Soriso gets 85 (super) in the current Gambero Rosso. My one experience there was brilliant from start to finish. I think it still has three Michelin stars.

[lzcrane]

I just got back last week from my trip, and I just wanted to thank you for the Al Sorriso recommendation. It was, I think, the best (yes, brilliant!) meal/dining experience I've ever had, anywhere. We ended up staying there as well (they have 6 Relaix and Chateau rooms upstairs for those who just want to keep eating) and we had lunch and dinner there. I can't stop raving about it, and, yes, it still have 3 stars (only one of 2 3-star restaurants in Italy!). Thanks again.

[mbfant]

Wonderful. It's such a responsibility recommending expensive places...

[coombe]

For Lake Orta itself I would recommend either the restaurant at the Hotel San Rocco on the shores of the lake (I remember a wonderful prawn taglierini) and for a more peaceful location on the Island of San Giulio, the only restaurant there Ristorante San Giulio.

[lzcrane]

Thanks for the referral! The Hotel San Rocco restaurant was terrific! I had an amazing perch dish there, and the view was lovely! thanks!