Inhabited since ancient times, the town of Gavirate rises at the foot of the Campo dei Fiori park, on the shores of Lake Varese, once known as Lake Gavirate.
The story of Villa Cocca began in 2012 on the shores of the stretch of water that has always fascinated its visitors. Is love for a place at first sight real? According to the managers, originally from Apulia, yes: they fell in love with the villa when it was still under construction. Today the outdoor sitting area, the swimming pool, and a 1000 sq. meter solarium park on the shores of the lake make the place truly unique; the landscape can also be admired from the inside room decorated in different shades of white.
The sight is accompanied by authentic flavors of Apulia. Most of the ingredients come directly from the region, starting with typical cold cuts and cheeses, such as the podolico caciocavallo from Gargano; alongside the Apulian specialties, to ensure high quality, you will find local 0-mile produce and fresh fish from the Adriatic.
The first courses of fresh pasta are faithful to tradition: orecchiette with turnip tops, stracciatella di Andria, Altamura bread crumbs, and Cantabrian anchovies, optionally served with Apricena bacon. Spaghettone allo scoglio with seafood and raw seafood hand made by the chef and the squid ink risotto with raw seafood. The latter two options come with burrata which is not just a touch of Apulia. Combining fish and cheese in one dish is rather a specialty of the restaurant.
Among the main courses, try their light-fried mixed seafood with Patagonian squid and Ligurian anchovies, the sea bass roll with a breading made of spices and Altamura bread crumbs, and the tuna tataki in a Bronte pistachio crust served on a bed of vegetables seasoned with soy sauce.
Those who prefer pizza can choose from their gourmet options prepared with a highly digestible dough, naturally leavened for over 72 hours.
The desserts are memorable as well: freshly made classic tiramisu, solid Chantilly cream glass with fresh red berries, and the Apulian zuccotto - a hazelnut, pistachio, and cream parfait with Borsci liqueur of San Marzano.
The Wine List has a selection of fine labels from all over Italy, from bubblies of Valdobbiadene to Falanghina d'Avellino. A place of honor is reserved for Apulian wines from local wineries, such as Nero di Troia, Bombino, Primitivo di Manduria and Negroamaro.
San Benedetto Prestige Rose Edition water is served here. The water is chosen for its purity and elegant design.
From breakfast to poolside aperitif and after-dinner cocktails, the ideal time to stop at Villa Cocca is… any time.
Villa Cocca, Varese (VA)
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