The story of Harry's Bar began just over fifty years ago, to be exact on 22nd May 1973, when Piero Sacchi decided to launch the American Bar trend on Lake Como. Little did he know that his bar overlooking the first arm of the lake would be a not-to-be-missed stop for the local and international clientele that each year chooses Como as their summer destination. At that time Como was enjoying an economic boom due to the thriving textile industry that kept the area alive throughout the post-war period. In just a short time Harry's Bar became a cult location for businessmen, film stars, singers and sportsmen," says Francesco Ugoni, one of the current owners.
In 2009 the bar was taken over by new partners who immediately realised that the secret of its enduring success lay in the mix of elegance, hospitality and high quality cuisine that had always been the hallmark of Harry's Bar. The change of ownership took place silently, almost without the loyal clientele noticing; as Ugoni explains: "The bar didn't need any changes, we left everything intact, from the décor to the menu". The interiors of Harry's Bar in Cernobbio, which over the years have only undergone minor improvements and specific maintenance work, still retain the refined retro taste that its founder had wished to create. The atmosphere at the tables of Harry's Bar, with its wooden furniture and the background piano music, brings back memories of past places like the famous Venetian restaurant that inspired the name Sacchi gave to the bar, with its approach to catering that always aims at high quality and customer satisfaction. The takeover by Villa d'Este takes place in February 2024, and marks an important milestone for the historic brand: the intention is to continue its successful course while preserving its tradition, in full respect of its glorious past.
The cuisine served as also remained unchanged, with quick dishes, but with care for the smallest detail, based on fresh ingredients and, when possible, respecting the zero kilometres rule. The recipes are inspired by the Italian and Milanese traditions, but without losing that touch of inventiveness and internationality that over the years has enabled it to become one of the most popular restaurants in the area. One example is the curried prawns with pilaf rice, a workhorse of Harry's Bar. But the cotoletta alla Milanese, the meat and fish tartare and the carpaccio, invented by Arrigo Cipriani in the kitchen of his Venetian restaurant and inspired by the 'orange' colour of the famous painter, are also worthy of mention. To accompany the food served there is a carefully selected menu of highest quality Italian wines, including Harry’s own-label prosecco, as well as cocktails skilfully mixed behind the iconic wooden bar. Situated in the splendid setting of the little town square of Cernobbio, Harry’s Bar is the perfect stopping point for a quick lunch at the lakeside, as it is for a romantic dinner date accompanied by piano music.