Antica Osteria - VARZO

We booked, on the recommendation of friends, thinking “B&B”. But the rooms at Antica Osteria are more like a hotel. We had a spotless double room with a large bathroom. Room 1 has a private terrace that must be fabulous in the summer. We’ll be asking for that room again. Early evening drinks in front of a log fire in the cosy bar. Owners Guido and Laura made us feel truly welcome. The platter of local cold meats and cheese were a bonus. For what we had, the bill seemed excellent value. Breakfast was generous. The sort of coffee you just don’t get in the UK. Warm jam filled croissants. Yoghurts, fruit, bread. And another wooden platter loaded with cold meats and local cheese. It’s a thousand miles from an anonymous hotel chain with identical rooms and no soul. The owners are working their socks off to make this special and personal (we loved the old photos of their parents, grandparent and ancestors on display in the small restaurant area). I like my food, wine and beer. She likes a lovely bathroom and a comfortable bed. We’ll both be returning.

This place is a hidden gem, unexpectedly in Varzo. Antica Osteria is an amazing place to feel the Italian ambiance, amazing hospitality, Guido, the owner is incredible he was very helpful with wines and everything. We highly recommend stopping by this place when in Varzo, you will love it. Guido also offers rooms for rent, bed and breakfast, looks very good. We will definitely be back.

This was indeed a great surprise in more than one way. First, it was the only place in a large radius still serving food at 2pm (not like 4am, you know) on an august sunday. Second, the owners went a lot out of their way to accomodate 11 people in a small place sitting probably 30max. Third, the food was excellent with fresh cut salame, speck, local prosciutto and lots of different cheese seasoning. You should try the local traditional tagliere. Fourth, small but precious list of beers. Minor notes, the service took a little longer than expected and there is no AC which makes the crowded environment a little too hot. Give it a try for a gathering with friends; less than ideal for a romantic dinner.

A charming little wine bar serving home made food any time of the day, which is pretty unusual in Italian trats and restaurants. Whether it is a pasta, a generous cheese and ham and salami board or a creative salad, food is genuine and tasty. We did not have a dessert although the dessert carte was very tempting. You will be surprised by the selection if wine and the owner, who speaks good English, will be happy to guide you in the choice. Located 5 minutes drive from the Simplon train station, plan your trip to or from Switzerland with a stop there, it is really worth it.

We were driving by in the area and found this little hidden treasure by chance. What a surprise, warm welcome by the staff, wonderful selection of italian and international wines and great local prosciutto, ham, salami cheese as well as warm dishes. We will definitely take the same route on our next trip to Italy and visit Osteria again......don't change anything about it!