Desenzano del Garda is a charming town located on the southern shore of Lake Garda in Italy. It is a famous tourist destination for visitors from all over the globe, thanks to its charming atmosphere and idyllic setting. This lovely town is not only famous for its stunning views and historical sites but also for its delicious cuisine.

So, get ready to explore the best restaurants in Desenzano del Garda and enjoy the memorable flavors of Italian cuisine. Whether you are a foodie looking for a unique dining experience or a traveler seeking to taste the flavors of Desenzano del Garda, this post is for you. Let’s get started and explore the best restaurants in this beautiful town.

(This article contains 5 restaurants in Desenzano del Garda, which are best in our subjective opinion. The order of the restaurants is not related to the quality they offer. Every restaurant has its pros and cons, so choose the one based on your personal preferences.)

Ristorante Esplanade

Ristorante Esplanade is one of the very best restaurants in Desenzano del Garda, renowned for its exceptional cuisine and stunning location. The restaurant is located on the lakefront, providing visitors with breathtaking views of Lake Garda while they dine. The amazing menu includes classic Italian dishes such as fresh seafood, homemade pasta, and meats sourced locally.

Some of the restaurant’s most famous dishes include spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams), risotto with lake fish, and grilled beef fillet with truffle sauce. Along with its mouthwatering food, Ristorante Esplanade is renowned for its outstanding wine list, which includes a variety of wines from the local and regional regions. To go with their meal, customers can select from a selection of red, white, and sparkling wines.

With a large dining area and big windows overlooking the lake, there is an elegant interior that has a cozy and welcoming ambiance. In warmer months, visitors can also enjoy Lake Garda views while dining outside on the patio during the summer. Overall, Ristorante Esplanade is a must-visit restaurant for anyone coming to Desenzano del Garda that wants exceptional fine dining with breathtaking views of Lake Garda.

Keep in mind that the restaurant has one Michelin star, so you can expect higher prices. Ristorante Esplanade is every day except Wednesday from 12:30 PM (12:30 hours) to 1:45 PM (13:45 hours) and from 8:00 PM (20:00 hours) to 9:45 PM (21:45 hours).

Ristorante Rose & Sapori

The Rose & Sapori Restaurant in Desenzano is well-known for its exceptional cuisine, which features unique and authentic flavors, as well as for its elegant and classy atmosphere. It is a trendy restaurant in Desenzano del Garda among couples, renowned for its innovative and contemporary Italian cuisine. The restaurant’s menu is a blend of traditional and modern dishes, with an emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients.

The risotto with saffron and prawns, the spaghetti with clams and bottarga, and the slow-cooked beef cheek with red wine sauce are some of the restaurant’s most popular meals. A tasting menu is also available at the restaurant, allowing customers to try a variety of dishes and flavors. In addition to its exceptional cuisine, Ristorante Rose & Sapori has an extensive wine list with a wide selection of Italian and international wines.

The restaurant’s knowledgeable staff can recommend the ideal wine to complement each dish, guaranteeing a memorable dining experience. With a contemporary interior that includes soft lighting and cozy seating, Ristorante Rose & Sapori has a posh and romantic atmosphere. If you want to surprise your loved ones or want to celebrate special occasions, don’t look further away. This restaurant is just perfect because of its warm and romantic ambiance, delicate lighting, and elegant décor.

Furthermore, the restaurant has a lovely outdoor terrace that is ideal for dining al fresco in the summer. Ristorante Rose & Sapori is a true gem in Desenzano del Garda due to its commitment to quality ingredients, creative dishes, and outstanding service. It is open every day except Monday for lunch from 12:30 PM (12:30 hours) to 2:00 PM (14:00 hours) and for dinner from 7:00 PM (19:00 hours) to 10:00 PM (22:00 hours). Keep in mind that the restaurant is only open for dinner on Tuesday.

Pizzeria San Benedetto

Desenzano del Garda’s Pizzeria San Benedetto is a popular place that offers delicious pizza in a relaxed setting. Along with a broad selection of traditional and innovative pizza toppings, the restaurant’s menu also offers salads, antipasti, and pasta dishes.

Pizzas are prepared with high-quality ingredients and baked in a traditional wood-fired oven, giving them a crispy crust and flavorful toppings. Some of the restaurant’s most famous pizzas include the “Bufalina” with fresh buffalo mozzarella, the “San Benedetto” with mushrooms and truffle oil, and the “Calzone” with mozzarella, ham, and tomato sauce.

The same family has managed the restaurant for generations, adding a personal touch to the dining experience and ensuring that traditional recipes are passed down through the family. The vibe at this pizzeria is relaxed and casual, with both indoor and outdoor seating available. The restaurant is situated in a beautiful pedestrian area of Desenzano del Garda, making it a favorite stop for both locals and visitors.

Overall, Pizzeria San Benedetto is a must-try for anyone seeking authentic Italian pizza in a comfortable and casual setting. With its high-quality ingredients, friendly service, and reasonable prices, it’s no surprise that this pizzeria is popular among locals. It is open every day except Monday from 6:00 PM (18:00 hours) to 10:45 PM (22:45 hours).

La Goccia Trattoria

La Goccia Trattoria is a well-known restaurant located a little bit away from Desenzano del Garda, in a small village called Montonale Basso. It is known for its delicious traditional Italian cuisine and welcoming ambiance. The restaurant is a popular option for both locals and tourists, and it has been recognized for its exceptional food and service by a number of publications and online review sites.

The stunning wine basement, visible through a glass window in the dining room, is what sets La Goccia Trattoria apart from other restaurants. The restaurant’s chef has carefully curated an extensive collection of local and international wines that you should try if wine is your thing.

Furthermore, the open kitchen at La Goccia Trattoria lets customers observe the chefs at work and take in the sights and noises of a busy kitchen. As a result, a lively and interesting atmosphere is created, allowing customers to fully enjoy their meals and get a behind-the-scenes look at how the eatery operates. Wooden tables, exposed brick walls, and cozy lighting all contribute to the restaurant’s charming and rustic décor.

There is also a beautiful outdoor terrace, which is ideal for dining during the warmer months. Another reason for the restaurant’s fame is its menu. La Goccia Trattoria offers traditional Italian cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh and seasonal ingredients. The dishes are made using time-honored methods and recipes, which produce authentic and flavorful meals.

Homemade pasta, grilled seafood, and slow-cooked stews are some of the most popular dishes. The staff is known for providing friendly warmth and prompt service. Each guest is guaranteed to have a memorable dining experience thanks to the attentive and knowledgeable staff, who are always pleased to offer suggestions.

With a focus on fresh and seasonal ingredients, friendly service, and authentic flavors, La Goccia Trattoria is sure to be an unforgettable part of any trip to Desenzano del Garda. The restaurant is open every day except Wednesday from 12:00 PM (12:00 hours) to 2:30 PM (14:30 hours) and from 7:30 PM (19:30 hours) to 11:00 PM (23:00 hours).

Bruschetteria Nose

Desenzano del Garda’s Bruschetteria Nose is a popular eatery known for its delicious bruschetta and informal atmosphere. This place provides an extensive menu that includes sandwiches, salads, antipasti, and different bruschetta toppings.

It is a popular choice for visitors as well as residents because it is situated in a charming pedestrian area of Desenzano del Garda. Bruschetteria Nose decided to use only premium ingredients and that is one of its distinctive features. The restaurant gets its ingredients from local producers and farmers, ensuring that each dish is made with the freshest and most flavorful ingredients.

Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and prosciutto are just a few of the premium components used to make their famous bruschetta. For those who want to personalize their bruschetta experience, the eatery offers both traditional and innovative toppings. The “Bufalina” with fresh buffalo mozzarella and cherry tomatoes, the “Norcina” with sausage and truffle cream, and the “Nordica” with smoked salmon and cream cheese are some of the most popular toppings.

Despite its popularity, Bruschetteria Nose’s reasonable prices make it an accessible dining choice for all. Besides, it is a must-go place for those seeking a relaxed and comfortable dining experience. The restaurant is open every day of the week from 12:00 PM (12:00 hours) to 3:00 PM (15:00 hours) and from 7:00 PM (19:00 hours) to 11:00 PM (23:00 hours).

Where to find the best restaurants in Desenzano del Garda?

Desenzano del Garda is a foodie’s paradise, providing a diverse variety of culinary experiences. From traditional Italian cuisine to diverse global flavors, the town has something for everyone’s taste and budget. Whether you are looking for a romantic dinner with your partner or a fun night out with a group of friends, the best eateries in Desenzano del Garda have you covered.

However, just like many popular destinations, Desenzano has tourist traps, so you have to be careful. Always check out menus and reviews before you enter restaurants. The best restaurants in Desenzano del Garda are not highlighted nor they are on the most popular squares in town. Therefore, you should walk a bit if you want to try exceptional food.

Check out more articles about Desenzano del Garda:

• Things to do in Desenzano del Garda
• Best pizza in Desenzano del Garda
• Shopping in Desenzano del Garda