Trattoria La Vecchia Magnolia — Restaurant in Menaggio

Proper two-bob dive!

Me and the fam rocked up to Trattoria La Vecchia Magnolia in Menaggio, thinking we’d get a decent bit of scran. Place was emptier than my nan’s fridge before pension day – not a soul in sight. We asked for a table, and they hit us with “we’re full.” Full? Pull the other one, mate! There was enough space to swing a dead cat. It was like walking into a Wetherspoons during Happy Hour, but somehow you’re the only mug that’s barred.

I mean, seriously, who were they saving tables for? The Queen? We’ve been mugged off before, but this was next level. Felt like we'd walked into The Only Way is Italy and been pied. The staff had the look of someone who’s just been dragged off a three-day bender and couldn’t be arsed to lift a finger. Probably all out back having a cheeky fag and a cuppa, couldn’t give a toss about actually doing their jobs. Proper Fawlty Towers vibes.

We were all ready to spunk a few quid, but apparently our sterling wasn’t up to their “high standards.” Absolute cobblers, this gaff wouldn’t know customer service if it hit ‘em in the face. Felt like we’d been sent on a wild goose chase, only to end up with nowt but the right hump.

In the end, we sacked it off and headed down the road, probably had a better chance of getting a decent meal from the dodgy burger van outside a football ground. Avoid this place like the plague – it’s about as useful as a...

Great trattoria in the beautiful and quaint village of Loveno, above Menaggio. The staff are absolutely lovely, very welcoming and attentive and have a deep knowledge about the food they serve. A lot of the local dishes on offer, such as the Taròz and Pizzocheri are specific to this region and made on the premises from local produce.

We started the meal with the Taròz which tasted amazing, together with a fish platter which included fish from both Lake Como and Lake Maggiore, followed by a Tagliata di Manzo with grain mustard and rocket with a balsamic vinegar glaze, all beautifully presented. The beef was cooked to perfection and just melted in the mouth!

Dessert was a beautiful homemade Tiramisù which finished the meal off perfectly!

Cannot believe we've been coming to the area for the last seven years and have only just discovered this gem but so glad we did!

Highly recommended if you want something a bit different from what other local restaurants offer. Can't wait to...

Visited the place after reading good reviews,we were a group of 4 adults and 4 young children. The waiter was very nice and patient,the food was fine. The owner was not ! He was rude with the children as they were playing with some of toothpicks and and some fell on the floor. He commented directly to the kids that they will pay for it ! While not talking to the parents ! Found this extremely rude and unprofessional on part of the owner. On exit,we discussed with the owner and paid extra just for toothpicks (out of courtesy) but owners son (working at the bar ) threw the money back! We witnessed a very distorted and appalling version of Italian hospitality and family loving culture. Wouldn’t recommend to any tourist expecting a professional service with or without...