Story time: Under the gazebo

The restaurant on the hill became one of our favourites. The service is friendly and fast, the italian cuisine and drinks are delicious. It has a charming, cosy and homey atmosphere. There is indoor and outdoor seating. The tables are spread with red and white chequered tablecloth. It is especially pretty under the gazebo in this quintessentially and traditionally italian setting.

the gazebo

The ambiance is always welcoming here. What more could anyone ask for? Great views whilst dining? This charming restaurant delivers as it overlooks Lake Como.

We dine at La Meridiana every time we visit this region. Their food never disappoints. We've tried things we've never had before, such as desserts like affogato al caffè (vanilla ice cream with expresso) and dishes such as black pasta. (It is made with durum wheat and the pasta gets its colour by adding squid ink).

delicious pasta dish

During one visit to the restaurant, we asked to sit under the gazebo although it was clearly meant for a larger group. We figured they could separate the 2 tables as we are a family of 5. We were told that it is not possible unless we are a group with 11 people. We understood, but noticed that the tables under the gazebo were not used during any of our visits. We thought it was a pity because no one had a chance to enjoy the beautiful view from that position. We figured it was reserved for locals only.

This past summer, we decided to visit La Meridiana with our new Italian/Dutch friends. They made the reservations, then we walked together along the winding mountainside roads, then uphill to the restaurant. Upon arrival our friends paused to speak to the old lady in the window - the owner of the restaurant. Our friends chatted with her for a while. It became apparent that they knew her well.

Thereafter, we paused to enjoy this amazing view.

When we entered the restaurant, we were brought directly to the gazebo. Finally! However, we were a total of only 9 people. We asked our friend, Hans, about the 11 persons rule. He proceeded to tell us this legendary story.

The gazebo was built to honour Hans' father, who was a heart surgeon. Whilst staying in the village, his father saved the life of a member of the family, that owns the restaurant. At a later date, his father also saved the life of a local dignitary. As a result, his father's descendants will always have a place under the gazebo - irrespective of the number of their party.

This was a unique and touching story. It clarified the mysteriously empty gazebo tables from our prior visits. We spent a lovely evening with our friends and heard many extraordinary stories. We felt like as though we were now a part of the village's history - whilst sitting under this special gazebo.

sunset over Lake Como

All photos are my own.

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