Ristorante I Due Sud — Restaurant in Circolo di Lugano ovest

Disappointing Experience at I Due Sud – Not Worth the Hype

My husband and I visited I Due Sud in Lugano during our honeymoon, expecting a memorable dining experience. Unfortunately, what we got was one of the most disappointing meals of our entire trip.

We opted for the 8-course tasting menu and asked the staff upfront how long the dinner would take. We were told approximately 2.5 hours. That seemed reasonable, but two and a half hours in, we had only been served the first three courses. Despite politely asking several times for an update, we were left waiting for extended periods — over 45 minutes between courses — with absolutely nothing on our table.

The pacing of the meal was a complete disaster. The long gaps between courses were neither explained nor acknowledged. This wasn’t a leisurely fine dining experience; it was a frustrating, dragged-out evening that felt more like we were forgotten than being served with care.

As for the food itself, it simply didn’t live up to expectations. The quality and execution were underwhelming at best — especially considering the price point and the restaurant’s reputation. We were genuinely excited to dine here, but the dishes lacked the creativity and refinement one would expect from a restaurant that aspires to fine dining status.

Overall, the entire experience felt like a poorly managed attempt at a tasting menu. We left feeling disappointed, annoyed, and robbed of a special evening on our honeymoon. I would not recommend I Due Sud to anyone looking for a reliable or enjoyable dining...

It was a truly outstanding experience: everything was to the highest standard. They have 4 tasting menus to choose from, with the option to reduce the amount of meals. We took a full menu “La nobilta et la tradizione” with accompanying wine. The food is a mix of South Swiss + South Italy traditions. It was incredibly interesting to dive into these traditions and feel interesting and incredible tastes. Wines were a perfect match to every meal. The Sommelier was of a very high level, very knowledgeable and professional. The service was outstanding, every little detail was just perfect. The service was really outstanding even in comparison with other gastro and Micheline restaurants. The atmosphere is very classic with a beautiful music on the background. I highly recommend...

The meal I ate was very delicious. But I will say that the passion fruit cheese cake with white chocolate should be taken off the menu. There were too many components that didn't go together. Cheesecake is my favorite desert and I was just disappointed. I always finish my food and I left most of it. The risotto and sea urchin pasta were very nice. Nothing to complain about. The service and atmosphere were a stand out in a good way. And the last thing, I think they could give much better bread at the beginning...