The Best Lake Garda Restaurant?

Albergo Ristorante La Forgia

via Calle I, 26

Lazise (VR)

Lazise is renowned for its array of exceptional dining establishments, yet among them, La Forgia holds a special place in our hearts. While it may not clinch the title of the absolute best Lake Garda restaurant, it undeniably stands as a gem worth exploring.

With its inviting ambiance, attentive service, and consistently delightful fare, La Forgia embodies the essence of culinary excellence. Whether indulging in their tantalizing array of dishes or savoring the views from their charming locale, dining at La Forgia promises a memorable experience that captures the essence of Lazise's culinary scene.

Each spring and summer, Lazise beckons with its charm, and our tradition leads us straight to La Forgia for lunch.

La Forgia is a name that resonates with history and culinary mastery. Forgia, meaning forge in Italian, pays homage to the ancient forge that once stood on this very spot. Today, the forge is reborn as a grill, infusing each dish with a touch of tradition and authenticity. As a family-run restaurant,

La Forgia embodies the warmth of Italian hospitality, welcoming guests with friendly smiles and efficient service.

A must-do during spring and summer?

Secure one of their coveted outdoor tables. Picture yourself seated on the covered terrace. It's an experience—a seamless blend of culinary delights and delightful scenery that captures the essence of Lazise in every bite and every moment.

What to eat?

Try the local seafood caught fresh from the lake –  if it's available on the menu (it isn't always) then I can highly recommend their Zuppa di Pesce (Seafood Soup) made fresh with whatever the local fisherman have caught that day. But fear not if seafood isn't your preference; their steaks, cooked on the very forge that lends its name to the restaurant, are equally divine.

The risottos at Forgia are an absolute delight, with the Risotto all Tinca standing out as a local Lake Garda specialty. Crafted to perfection, this dish is a testament to the culinary prowess of Forgia. However, it's worth noting that this delicacy typically requires a minimum order for two and a bit of patience due to its meticulous preparation process. But then again, why rush in Italy? Dining here is an experience meant to be savored, each moment drawn out in a symphony of flavors and conversations.

Now, onto their pasta – a culinary journey in itself. So remarkable that even my wife can't resist sneaking forkfuls from my plate every time I order. Their Bigoli pasta, which is a variety of pasta that comes from the Veneto region (the region in which much of Lake Garda, Venice and Verona lie) is excellent. I recommend trying this rather than going with dishes like Carbonara, which is a recipe that originates in Rome. 

Also well worth trying is their gnocchi (make sure you pronounce it properly though - here's how). Their gnocchi with truffles is sublime.

Ask the restaurant for ideas on which local wine (click for more on local wine) would match your order, they are very good at this and the wines from the area around lake Garda are superb, this is after all one of the most prestigious wine regions in all of Italy.

For dessert, you can't go far wrong with the tiramisu, which is a dessert that was invented in the Veneto region.

Is it worth eating here?

While it's true that prices at Forgia may lean slightly towards the higher end, I firmly believe that the overall experience more than justifies it. From the inviting atmosphere to the attentive service and delectable cuisine, every aspect of dining here contributes to a memorable culinary journey.

Thankfully, Lazise boasts a plethora of dining options to suit every palate. Ristorante Botticelli, Ristorante Doana, and Oreste stand out as formidable contenders alongside Forgia, each offering its own unique charm and culinary delights. If you find yourself extending your stay in Lazise, be sure to explore these culinary gems for an unforgettable dining experience.

If you are undecided on where to stay around Garda have a look at our Lake Garda hotel guide.