What We Love Now Trattoria di Como

What We Love Now
Trattoria di Como

The Tratt' is back!

Story by Nikki Bayley | Images by Joern Rohde

For 30 years, Whistler locals and savvy visitors celebrated life and feasted upon delicious Tuscan cuisine at the Trattoria di Umberto, hidden away in Sundial Place, just steps from the Village. For anniversaries and birthdays at night and business deals over lunch, the Tratt’ was where it was at. Regrettably, that all came to an end in 2019 when the restaurant was sold. But, in a deliciously unexpected twist, the Tratt’ is back as Trattoria di Como!

Experience what we love this winter with some local Whistler favourites. Ski-down or take the short drive to visit Creekside Village and indulge in a treat of locally made gelato or sorbet, pick-and-mix candy, healthful smoothies, warming oatmeal bowls and Italian coffees at Confetti Gelato; fulfill your passion for patties at Splitz Grill on Main Street — the local’s favourite casual place with serious burgers, with fresh patties made daily and more than 40 homemade toppings; try some locally made gin or vodka from Whistler’s first local distillery Montis Distilling in Function Junction.

The cozy corners of the Loggia, the refined main dining room, the roaring fire in the semi-private Fireplace Room, and soft lighting and imported Italian art throughout are the order of the day. This new incarnation is very much a re-invention and homage to the original. “It’s a new Trattoria, but it’s the Trattoria once more; Umberto’s shadow walks this room,” says General Manager Michael Graham, who worked for Umberto Menghi for more than three decades.

“We’re not re-inventing the wheel; this is Northern Italian dining. We’re honouring the history and flavours of Tuscan ingredients.” After studying old menus from the Trattoria di Umberto days and talking out new menu plans with Culinary Director Mark Greenfield, Tratt’ fans will be thrilled to see old favourites such as the veal chop and linguine alle Vongole back on the menu, and according to Graham, there are plenty of new treats to get excited about. (“the veal [alla] Milanese with a saffron risotto is already a top seller!”)

Start your Tratt’ experience with a cocktail shaken up by a white-jacketed bartender. “Think Italian classics with a twist,” says Greenfield. Try a Venetian for a fruity wine cooler vibe or the silky-smooth Pasta Water Martini with imported Italian, Portofino Dry Gin, and yes, just a splash of pasta water for a textured, complex sipper. The wine list showcases the best of Italy and B.C., with a nod to wines from around the world. As dinner unfolds, don’t skip the fried breaded mozzarella di Bufala, a gorgeous grown-up rendition of mozzarella sticks, before diving into luscious pastas, perfectly cooked seafood, and tender steaks.

Plans include al fresco dining by the poolside garden (the Trattoria di Como is located inside the Mountainside Lodge), a members’ club, and a club terrace. “The team is coming together; the flow is happening!” says Graham.

Welcome back the new, old Tratt’!

trattoriadicomo.com | 604-966-2311