What should I order at Il Cavatappi?
Il Cavatappi
Panna Cotta
Recommended multiple times as exceptional, with reviews specifically praising the salted caramel version as one of the best desserts they've tasted.
Lasagna
Mentioned several times as very good, savory, and amazing; diners repeatedly highlighted it as one of the standout pasta dishes.
Gnocchi
Praised for being very good and memorable, with one review calling the pumpkin gnocchi amazing and another noting the gnocchi as a first-time dish that was worth trying.
Octopus
Frequently recommended for its freshness and quality; both the octopus and octopus tentacles were called amazing or fabulous.
Tiramisu
Highlighted as delicious and a house specialty, with one review calling the homemade tiramisu exquisite and another simply praising it as very good.
Lemon Ricotta Ravioli
Specifically praised as spectacular and a must-try, with reviewers repeatedly emphasizing how memorable and delicious it was.
Salmon
Mentioned as amazingly fresh and delicious, and described as one of the seafood dishes that stood out strongly.
Sea Bass
Called delicious in one review, adding to the restaurant’s strong reputation for well-prepared fish dishes.
Lamb
Described as delicious and part of a meal where several main dishes were praised for quality and flavor.
Hours
| Monday | 12 to 3:30 PM, 6:30 to 9 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 12 to 3:30 PM, 6:30 to 9 PM |
| Wednesday | 12 to 3:30 PM, 6 to 9 PM |
| Thursday | 12 to 3:30 PM, 6:30 to 9 PM |
| Friday | 12 to 3:30 PM, 6:30 to 9 PM |
| Saturday | 12 to 3:30 PM, 6:30 to 9 PM |
| Sunday | 6:30 to 9:30 PM |
About Il Cavatappi
Antipasti, pasta & creatively plated regional dishes, in a modest trattoria with tables in an alley.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Onsite services
- Dine-in
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Halal food
- Wine
Dining options
- Dinner
- Seating
Amenities
- Wi-Fi
- Free Wi-Fi
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Debit cards
- Credit cards
Children
- High chairs
Parking
- Usually difficult to find a space
Frequently asked questions
What is Il Cavatappi known for?
It is especially known for duck ragu, tiramisu, and outdoor alley seating in central Varenna. Reviewers also repeatedly praise the burrata, lamb shank, and the careful presentation of the regional dishes.
What dishes are most recommended at Il Cavatappi?
The most frequently recommended dishes are duck ragu, tiramisu, burrata, lamb shank, gnocchi with shrimp, and the octopus starter with chickpea purée or mash potatoes. Reviewers also mention lemon ravioli, caprese salad, and panna cotta as standout choices.
What is the atmosphere like at Il Cavatappi?
The vibe is intimate and neighborhood-trattoria-like, with tables in a narrow alley or outside in the center of Varenna. It suits couples and small groups well, especially people who want a relaxed dinner with lake-town atmosphere and attentive service.
Is Il Cavatappi good value, and what is the price range?
The price range is €20–40, and reviewers generally feel the quality of the food, wine, and service justifies it. Several guests call it one of their highlights in Italy or on Lake Como, especially for dishes like duck ragu, lamb shank, and burrata.
Do you need a reservation at Il Cavatappi?
Reservations are strongly recommended because tables are limited and lunch or dinner slots can fill up fast. Some guests were seated without booking, but others mention arriving early, and one review notes a cash deposit was used to secure a table in Varenna.
Is parking available at Il Cavatappi?
Yes. Usually difficult to find a space is available.
Is the food at Il Cavatappi halal?
Yes, Il Cavatappi serves halal food.
Restaurants like Il Cavatappi in Varenna
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