A love for hospitality and gastronomy have been the common thread running through Samuel Carugati's career, that has led him to the world of cuisine and hospitality. After completing his studies at hotel school, his path took him around the world, where he honed his culinary skills and his passion for catering. From London to St. Moritz he made his mark with highly successful restaurants, gaining considerable experience and a deep understanding of the industry. It was however the call of his homeland, Como, that drew him back here to set up his latest culinary project.
So it was that in 2023, Samuel started Piazzetta Lake Como in Cernobbio. It reflects his vision of authentic Italian cuisine in a welcoming space that is now a regular and popular destination both for people passing through and for locals alike that. Piazzetta's philosophy is simple, to make guests feel at home and offer them a culinary experience that celebrates the flavours and aromas of the Italian tradition. As Samuel himself says, ‘there is that feeling of coming home to grandma’s or mum’s place after a long time away from the smells of home'.
The menu at Piazzetta is a journey through the flavours of Italy, with creative and sophisticated dishes that employ fresh, high-quality ingredients. There are Neapolitan classics and there are innovative dishes, while each creation is prepared with care and with passion, channelling Samuel's love for his land and gastronomic culture. Well worth mentioning also is the fine selection of crafted cocktails.
The drinks offered at Piazzetta are created with skill and care, each a unique combination of flavours and aromas. A guests’ favourite is 'Italia da bere', Italy in a glass, a refreshing and aromatic cocktail that captures the essence of the country with a mix of gin, grapefruit and sauer. It was intended as an easy summer beverage to be replaced by other combinations suited to the autumn season. The by now regular customers however kept asking for it so Samuel brought it back into the cocktail list, making it Piazzetta's signature drink. The ambience that has been created reflects the philosophy of the venue, with detail and furnishings that bring the family home to mind. The idea derives from Samuel’s own Spanish culture and tradition, where conviviality is celebrated by sharing tapas and time sipping a glass of wine. This turns into an occasion for sitting down together for dinner, and then again after dinner with a drink. Over time this also become the norm at Piazzetta, with customers turning up for aperitif and ending up staying on late into the evening. In 2024, Piazzetta promises to offer even more to its guests, with a series of events and initiatives designed to engage the local community.