Gattolardo — Restaurant in Desenzano del Garda

We came to Gattolardo after reading that they serve authentic bigoli con le sarde, a local specialty I’d been keen to try. We walked in without a booking and were lucky to get a table outside.

When we asked about the dish, the waiter explained that it was out of season, and that their menu — apart from the pizzas — is seasonal and based on availability. I really respected that. Some places would serve it anyway just to please tourists, but here they clearly care about doing things properly.

The menu was genuinely interesting and definitely aimed at the more adventurous diner. We had pasta with lake fish ragù and braised rabbit — both full of bold, distinctive flavours if you’re not used to them.

The waiter recommended a local Candri Saottini Lugana white wine, which we instantly loved.

The staff were attentive, friendly, and happy to answer our many questions about the dishes and ingredients. You could tell they were proud of what they were serving.

If you’re looking for something authentic and thoughtful, and not just another copy-paste Desenzano menu, Gattolardo is well...

I was a little bit disappointed by this restaurant, it was recommended by a local and I was told it was going to be the best out of the two I had already tried. We booked, good job as they were fully booked, I suggest you do to. The waitress was a bit judge'y, I don't know if I just didn't get her, but when I asked if they had any alcohol free beer (as I was driving) I sort of got the opinion she sneered at me. And then when I asked for a dish and balsamic vinegar to use with the oil, a sort of huff that she had to go back to the kitchen to get it. Anyway that might have just been me. Apart from that, the host was lovely, the food was very quick coming out, we had the sage pasta and a pizza, both of which were very nice. The setting was only ok and the umbrella could do with a wash or clean. For the food, and the host I would...

Great traditional cuisine! Location is informal, a slightly hidden place at the end of a blind alley, on a pedestrian and shopping street. Pet friendly. Few dishes on the menu, in fact it is a restaurant that offers what is able to do. Very well prepared, and tasty dishes. Cuisine rich in aromas. These plates remind of grandma's cooking, and for all I care, it's a compliment. In addition to traditional dishes, pizzas are also offered, both for lunch and dinner.

Excellent choice to have a great time, eat well and avoid the usual tourist restaurants. Fair price, around 35-45 eu per person.

The entrance has a ramp for...