Lisa Anderson
Cernobbio is located in the Lake Como Region on the opposite side of the lake as Bellagio. Boats to Bellagio run several times a day,
including one boat that transports vehicles in case you want to boat over and take a scenic drive back. Cernobbio is a small town with
very few American tourists and is what I would consider a sleepy town. It's very comfortable and relaxing and our meals were
outstanding. Harry's Bar on the waterfront is very active and happening (try the lasagna), Trattoria del Vapore has courtyard seating
with fabulous pasta, steaks, and lentil soup, and then there are more romantic spots such as Il Gatto Nero (Black Cat in Italian).
Gatto Nero is at the top of the town, on the mountain top, overlooking the lake. It is also supposed to be one of George Clooney's
favorite spots in the region to dine, although to our disappointment, he was not there the night we were there. The setting at Gatto
Nerro is open air (but with a permanent roof), split into numerous intimate rooms and spaces, candlelit, and with personable service.
After your meal, don't be surprised if they bring out huge glass canisters of black licorice or biscotti for you to snack on while
they prepare your dessert. The menu offerings and the meal was fabulous too. Gatto Nero should definitely be included as a stop if
you are in the Lake Como region.