Ticino cuisine
Authentic dishes from local tradition reinterpreted with creativity, from respect for original flavours to a contemporary take on the territory's ingredients
What visitors voted
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Dining · Locarno
Ticino cuisine and pizza with special dough in the heart of Piazza Grande in Locarno
Eccellenza Italianacertificata 2025–2026
Read on
The place
In the heart of Piazza Grande in Locarno, Ristorante Cantina 1896 brings together Ticino tradition and culinary innovation. Founded in 1896, the restaurant offers authentic local dishes reinterpreted with creativity, from pasta to meat to its celebrated pizza with special dough. The terrace on the piazza provides a striking setting during events such as the Locarno Film Festival and the MoonStars concerts. Beyond its dining service, Cantina 1896 organises wine tastings and custom events for private and corporate celebrations.
At the table
Since 1896, Ristorante Cantina 1896 has occupied one of the most striking spots in Locarno, in the beating heart of Piazza Grande.
Why you can trust it
RISTORANTE CANTINA 1896 is a member of the Eccellenze Italiane network. The mark is registered in Italy and abroad: every certified business has a unique identifier, which can be checked at any time.
Location
RISTORANTE CANTINA 1896 is already on our map, with its own mark among the other certified businesses of the area: here you can look at it up close.
Enter the mapIn the kitchen
Services and features
Authentic dishes from local tradition reinterpreted with creativity, from respect for original flavours to a contemporary take on the territory's ingredients
Fragrant and delicious, made with a unique dough that shapes its texture and flavour, served alongside Mediterranean specialities
Pasta dishes that complement the Ticino and Mediterranean menu, with close attention to ingredient quality
An original, well-balanced drink that enriches the cocktail list, appreciated for its balance of aromas and nuances
Events dedicated to discovering selected labels through food pairings designed to highlight the aromas and character of the wines on offer
The figures
What visitors say
«Perfect place: service, setting, calm atmosphere and excellent food! Well done, Locarno needed an Eccellenza Italiana.»
«Venue, kitchen and service top-notch! Exquisite dinner, the pizzas and special Spritz were amazing. We spent a wonderful evening.»
«Kind, attentive, professional staff. Mediterranean and Ticino cuisine, high quality. Fragrant, delicious pizza.»
«I think it's without doubt the best on the piazza… quality and professionalism in a warm, welcoming setting.»
Reviews appear in the language each guest wrote them in.