La Fugascina Ristorante

The story

La Fugascina Ristorante, Mergozzo – Fresh Italian Contemporary on Lake Mergozzo

At the edge of the lake

Mergozzo, a quiet village on the western shore of Lake Mergozzo, sets the stage for La Fugascina Ristorante. The restaurant draws inspiration from the lake’s calm waters, the ancient alleyways, and the century-old elm trees that frame the piazza. Here, tradition and creativity meet in dishes that reflect the territory.

The kitchen’s philosophy

The team describes their cooking as “a slow, constant flow of hours and days dedicated to research, study, and experimentation.” Their most precious ingredient is time: time spent maturing, fermenting, and aging. The morning begins with local fishermen rowing out for perch, char, and pike-perch on the pristine lake. Then the kitchen moves through the alpine pastures and valleys, sourcing from the garden according to the seasons. Only after this patient preparation does creativity take over, using modern techniques to reveal ancient flavours or to open new sensory paths.

The people behind it

Chef Gabriele Pauselli leads the kitchen, while Carlo manages the dining room. Together they have built a space that feels as much about hospitality as about food. The restaurant’s website says simply: “From whichever side you look, it’s us.” That spirit of unity and care translates into every plate.

Recognition

La Fugascina Ristorante has been awarded a Michelin Recommended distinction in 2026, a nod to its commitment to both Italian Contemporary and Country Cooking traditions. The menu changes with the seasons, and the wine list is curated to match the kitchen’s evolving flavours.

Whether you sit indoors or on the outdoor terrace, the experience is grounded in the place itself: a lakeside restaurant that respects its roots while looking forward.