Established way back in 1803 this well-known Lugano haunt has more than two centuries of history that have seen many different owners and a succession of illustrious patrons. These have seen the location earn the fame over the years of being the lounge bar of Lugano itself. Managed for many years by the Biaggi family, it was sold in 1942 Alberto Bianchi, previously manager of the well-known Albergo-Ristorante Barchetta in Como. Despite the fact that Europe was then going through one of the darkest times in its history, the restaurant quickly became a meeting place for artists, writers and politicians. It was in its Cenacolo room, on the first floor, that Operation Sunrise took place in 1945: a series of secret meetings between representatives of the German, Italian and Allied forces, under the direction of the American Allen Dulles and Major Max Waibel of the Swiss Army Intelligence Service, which led to the final and unconditional surrender of the Reich, signed in Caserta on 29th April of that year.
The evocative surroundings of the Grand Café Al Porto are steeped in a retro atmosphere filled with history and timeless elegance. Antique coffered ceilings, Art Nouveau architectural details and sophisticated furnishings provide the perfect setting for moments of relaxation or convivial gatherings throughout the day. The jewel in the crown of the Luganese café-restaurant is the Cenacolo Fiorentino, originally the refectory of an old convent, with its 16th ceiling and frescoes attributed to the Florentine painter Bonafedi. This is a cosy and intimate space that lends itself to banquets and to private events. Because of this rich historical and cultural heritage, the Grand Café Al Porto is one of the six 'corresponding members', i.e. those located outside Italy itself, of the association “Locali Storici d'Italia”, which promotes and protects historic establishments such as hotels, restaurants, confectioner's shops, pastry shops and literary cafés that have earned fame and historical significance through the important events they have hosted and the personages that have frequented them.
Borrowing the philosophy of the classic Cafés parisiens, the Grand Café Al Porto offers a range of sweet and savoury delicacies from morning through to night. Among the sweet items are the classic pastries that have earned the café renown with awards such as the Swiss Bakery Trophy and the Marktkieker, considered the Oscar of the sector. These pastries and cakes have unmistakable style and include the fondant pralinés, puff pastries, and house specialities such as Panettone and Amaretti, all of which are handmade. For a relaxed lunch break with friends, or perhaps a formal business lunch, the menu at the Grand Café Al Porto is able to meet every need and satisfy every taste. There are classic Mediterranean dishes, such as homemade pasta served with seasonal sauces, and there is the famous Swiss beef tartar, as well as more fanciful recipes giving traditional dishes a contemporary twist. The wooden tables and elegant outdoor seating of this gem in the heart of Lugano provide a welcome to guests at any time of day, including those just looking for a coffee or a glass of wine, while enjoying the location’s old-world charm.