Il Rapanello - Lesa

Had a lovely lunch on January 1st with my family before everyone goes back to usual routine. Glorious location on Lake Maggiore compliments this cozy restaurant. The owner details the menu of the day with appreciated precision of researched ingredients that come together to create incredible dishes. Quality food, excellent service, beautiful location. A perfect way to start the new year.

My husband and I enjoyed a wonderful lunch at Il Rapanello. They had me when they said all they serve is fish... and they won me over more by playing good music in their dining room. Our waiter spoke excellent English and made good suggestions for wine. I had the fish of the day, which was branzino cooked in cellophane with cherry tomatoes, olives, and capers, and served with salted potatoes and watercress. It was absolutely delicious! My tastebuds were singing with the first bite and I was raving about how good it was when we paid the check. My husband had tuna steak, cooked rare and served with sauteed red onions, cherry tomatoes, and potatoes. My husband doesn 't usually like onions, but he said the ones with his dish were like candy and delicious. We finished with dessert and espresso. I had a chocolate bread with a side of vanilla gelato. My husband had very fresh panna cotta with berry sauce. We really enjoyed the leisurely lunch and wouldn 't hesitate to visit again if we ever make it back to Lesa.

Our hotel couldn't recommend this restaurant highly enough. We were fortunate that they booked us a table by the lake with just amazing views towards the Alps. Our fish was as fresh as they come and cooked to perfection and despite the amazing quality, the prices here as very good compared to some of the other nearby seafood restaurants. The service was a bit too cheeky chappy for my liking, but for great food and a great location, this has got to be one of the best restaurants in the area.

Great restaurant. fish and wine on top. clean, tidy and friendly staff. Congratulations.

Excellent dish. I recommend keeping your hand lighter with salt. fast and very courteous service