Dive into Summer: Discover Our Fish Specialties at Mama Gina Brunate

Summer on Lake Como calls for fresh, light, and flavorful cuisine that celebrates the treasures of our stunning Mediterranean waters and unspoiled alpine lakes. At Mama Gina in Brunate, we are thrilled to present four exceptional fish dishes on our summer menu that capture the essence of coastal and lakeside Italian cuisine, offering the perfect balance of nutrition and taste for the warmer months.

Why Fish is Your Perfect Companion for Summer on Lake Como

As temperatures rise and the search for lighter, refreshing meals increases, fish emerges as the ideal protein choice. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, and essential vitamins, fish offers numerous health benefits, making it particularly appealing during the summer months in the Como region:

• Easy Digestion: Fish is lighter on the stomach compared to red meat, perfect for hot summer days on Lake Como.

• Hydration Support: Many types of fish are high in water content, helping maintain hydration during the warm Como summers.

• Brain Boost: Omega-3 fatty acids support cognitive function and mood – essential for enjoying those long summer days with a view of Lake Como.

• Heart Health: Regular fish consumption supports cardiovascular health, particularly important during the active summer months in the Como area.

• Vitamin D: A natural source of vitamin D, perfectly complementing those sunny summer days by Lake Como.

Our Four Summer Fish Specialties in Brunate

1. Grilled Salmon Fillet with Chickpea Hummus

Our premium Norwegian salmon is grilled to perfection and served with our creamy homemade chickpea hummus, dressed with our special vinaigrette. 

This dish is the perfect blend of Mediterranean tradition and Nordic quality – the rich, buttery flavor of the salmon pairs wonderfully with the creaminess of the hummus, creating a culinary experience that celebrates both summer lightness and nutritional substance, all while enjoying the panoramic view of Lake Como.

2. Octopus with Mashed Potatoes

Fresh Mediterranean octopus, tender and perfectly grilled, served on our silky-smooth mashed potatoes made with local potatoes. This sophisticated dish showcases the art of Italian seafood preparation at our restaurant, where simple ingredients are transformed into extraordinary culinary experiences. The contrast between the tender octopus and the creamy potatoes creates a harmonious balance that defines Mama Gina’s elegant summer cuisine.

3. Salad with Octopus and Cherry Tomatoes

Our Mediterranean grilled octopus takes center stage in this refreshing summer salad, combined with sweet cherry tomatoes, aromatic Taggiasca olives, and fresh mixed greens. Finished with a bright lemon dressing, it's a fresh, vibrant dish perfect for a summer lunch in Brunate.

4. Tagliatelle with Lake Fish Ragu

A true celebration of Lake Como's culinary heritage, our homemade fresh tagliatelle is paired with a delicious ragu made with the best lake fish from the pristine waters of Como – perch, pike, and whitefish. This unique dish brings the authentic flavors of Lake Como directly to your table at Mama Gina Brunate, showcasing the best of Como’s local fishing traditions..

From the Mediterranean Sea to Lake Como: Gina’s Words

A moment to pause in the kitchen with Gina Moschella, the soul of Mama Gina restaurant, to talk about fish, traditions, and that magic that happens when the flavors of the Mediterranean meet the beauty of Lake Como.

1. "Gina, when did you decide to introduce fish into the summer menu, was there a particular moment or memory that inspired you?"

"I decided to bring fish into the summer menu because, for me, summer is the scent of the sea, the lake, and tables set outdoors. It’s a memory I’ve carried with me since childhood, when on holiday by the sea with my family, we’d all wait together for the evening fish grill. I wanted to bring that same atmosphere to Mama Gina, but also combine it with the flavors of our Lake Como, so that each dish tells a little of me and a little of here."

2. "The lake fish ragu is truly special and represents the Lake Como territory. Can you tell us how this recipe was born?"

"The lake fish ragu was born from the desire to enhance the local territory. I asked myself: why not tell the story of Lake Como in a dish that everyone knows and loves, like ragu, but with the authentic taste of our fish? It was an experiment made with curiosity and passion, and I must say it came naturally: I just let the fresh, local ingredients work their magic."

3. "Among all the fish dishes on the summer menu, which one represents you the most?"

"The Octopus with Mashed Potatoes, a specialty that encapsulates the sea in every bite. A perfect meeting of delicacy and character: the intense taste of the sea wrapped in the authentic simplicity of Mama Gina’s cuisine. A dish that’s not just food, but a memory of travels, sunsets, and laughter around the table."

Ready to experience an unforgettable journey of flavors in front of the stunning view of Lake Como?

Our summer menu at Mama Gina Brunate is now available. Located in the heart of Brunate with panoramic views of Lake Como, we are easily reachable from Como and surrounding areas.

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