Crotto Valtellina

The story

Crotto Valtellina: Michelin-Recognized Italian Dining in Malnate, Varese

Family and Tradition

For over fifty years, the Valbuzzi family has run Crotto Valtellina in Malnate, just outside Varese. Their mission: “good food and hospitality, every day.” The restaurant is a place where the warmth of a family-run establishment meets the precision of fine dining. Chef and patron Roberto Valbuzzi leads the kitchen, supported by his brother Leonardo and a dedicated team that includes sous chef Marco Fumagalli. The Valbuzzis are deeply rooted in the local territory, sourcing ingredients from small producers like Azienda Agricola Bergamo, Pastificio Baradello, and Casale Roccolo.

Two Menus, One Philosophy

The restaurant’s Italian cuisine is presented through two complementary menus. The “Historic” menu celebrates Valtellina tradition with hand-kneaded pizzoccheri, buckwheat and cheese sciatt fritters, and classic Tzigoiner (thinly sliced beef cooked on a hot stone). The “Discovering the Territory” menu is chef Roberto’s contemporary evolution—seasonal, creative, and built around micro-excellences. Dishes like poached egg with spinach béchamel and trout roe, or lamb roulade with turmeric chickpeas and goat cheese sauce, show a kitchen that respects the past while looking forward. Guests are free to mix dishes from both menus.

Recognition and Local Roots

Crotto Valtellina’s commitment to quality has earned it a Michelin Recommended award, a recognition that reflects the consistency of the Valbuzzi family’s work. The restaurant also holds certifications from Gambero Rosso and is listed as a historic activity of Lombardy. In 2024, the family celebrated fifty years with a series of four-hands dinners, hosting chefs like Andrea Berton and Eugenio Boer. The dining room is open for dinner every evening except Tuesday, with lunch on weekends. The atmosphere is elegant but not rigid—the dress code suggests elegance, and children aged five and up are welcome.