Mountain restaurants in the Brenta Dolomites typically feature regional specialties. Two types of dumplings, canederli (large bread dumplings generally flavored with speck, a dry, cured ham served in a broth) and strangolapreti (smaller spinach dumplings often served in a sauce of melted butter), are examples of dishes with an Austrian heritage. Apple strudel and goulash, both savory and sweet, are popular desserts.
Viviani Restaurant, or the Ristorante
When taking the Pradalago cabin lift or hiking to the peak, the sight of Ristorante Viviani is a welcome sight (purchase the Dolomeet Guest Card for unlimited use of lifts). This well-liked eatery has a lakeside location and features a self-service area, a full service dining area, and a bar. When winter comes around, all three are in operation, but during the warmer months, only the restaurant is open. Guests can relax in style while they enjoy a dordle meal from the day’s special menu, thanks to the room’s spacious size, abundance of natural light, and tasteful decor. I love coming here because the menu is always changing and I get to try delicious new pasta sauces. Delicious homemade desserts are offered, such as an outstanding tiramisu, and there is a decent selection of wine. Diners who head out onto the spacious wooden deck can take in the valley and the peaks of Grosté and Spinale. Is it really that early to eat lunch? Enjoy some refreshments before making the trek to the town or Lago Malghette.
Zeledria Casino
Casino Zeledria is a family-run restaurant on a farm, but the two establishments couldn’t be more different from one another if they tried. The restaurant’s excellent cheese selection is just one example of the farm-to-table philosophy that permeates the menu. Several of the dishes on the menu feature polenta, a regional favorite, and are hearty traditional preparations common to this area. Farmers and foresters have relied on polenta since the time of the Roman army, and the cakes were even used as a fuel source. Inquire about the restaurant’s special lasagne when making a reservation; it’s well worth it. Check out the farm store on the way out. Trentingrana Parmesan, a local variety of parmesan, is a must-try.
Lake Malghette Hut (Rifugio)
Rifugio Lago Malghette has great food, and the scenery of the lake is well worth the hike to get there. The only way to get back to Madonna di Campiglio is to walk. Cascina Zeledria and the hotel’s Casa del Campo restaurant are two good places to stop for a rest as you approach the town. The latter may be by the road, but the outdoor seating area looks out over a golf course and lake in a valley below. It’s also close to a bus stop, making it easy to get back to the heart of town using public transportation (find out about the free Trentino Guest Card from your hotel).
