Cafè della Fontana Guide and Review
Located in the picturesque city of Locarno, Switzerland, Cafè della Fontana operates within a casino setting. While its primary classification is a casino, user reviews often highlight the café and bar services offered. This review synthesizes various guest experiences, focusing on the establishment's strengths and areas where it could enhance its appeal.
The Good ✨
One recurring positive note from visitors is the quality of the beverages. Guests have specifically praised the "very good coffee", making it a reliable spot for a caffeine fix. The atmosphere is also often described as friendly, with remarks about a "Bar friendly" environment and particularly "kind" staff members, including a helpful lady believed to be the owner.
Cleanliness appears to be another strong point, with one reviewer noting the "bathroom was clean". For those looking for a light bite or an evening drink, the aperitif service has been described as "pleasant", especially with the small outdoor space offering a view onto a quiet street.
Beyond the cafe, Cafè della Fontana also offers a comprehensive tobacconist service. This section is well-equipped with a wide range of items for smokers and stands out for its modern conveniences, including the ability to pay with GPay and other credit/debit cards, making transactions seamless for customers.
Areas for Improvement ⚠️
While the cafe offers pleasant aspects, some feedback indicates room for improvement, particularly concerning food offerings and ambiance. A notable concern raised by a patron was the portion size and value of food items, such as a sandwich containing "only one slice of ham", leading to the reviewer feeling hungry and dissatisfied. This suggests that the food portions may not always justify the price.
Another point of contention for some visitors is the noise level within the establishment. Comments mention "radio or television at high volume" being rather annoying, which could detract from a relaxing experience, especially during quieter moments.
Furthermore, the pricing of basic meals has been a significant downside for some. One guest expressed surprise at a bill of €35 for two plates of pasta, half a liter of wine, and two coffees, considering it excessively high. This perception of poor value for money, especially compared to nearby alternatives, has led some to question the overall pricing strategy. Aesthetically, the place doesn't seem to offer anything particularly special, with one review stating it offers "nothing particular in terms of the aesthetics of the place, nothing special."
Overall Impression
Cafè della Fontana in Locarno appears to be a mixed bag, offering a convenient stop for a good coffee and a friendly encounter with staff, particularly if you're utilizing the modern tobacconist services. Its clean facilities and pleasant outdoor seating for aperitifs are definite positives. However, visitors seeking substantial and well-priced meals might find the portions lacking and the prices steep. The ambient noise level from TV or radio could also be a deterrent for those looking for a quiet retreat. For a quick coffee or to access the tobacconist, it could be a suitable choice, but for dining, guests might want to consider their options carefully.
The girl at the bar was very kind, the bathroom was clean...but I gave 2 stars for two reasons. Sandwich with only one slice of ham...I left hungry and that's the main reason for the two stars. Also, radio or television at high volume, rather annoying
Tried as a place for aperitifs (before covid19) it offers nothing particular in terms of the aesthetics of the place, nothing special. But the aperitif was still pleasant, a small outdoor space overlooking the street of the quiet town of Osmate. In this period, however, I was able to experience the tobacconist service provided with every item for smokers, although small it has all the services that a modern tobacconist must have, not least the possibility of paying with Gpay and credit/debit cards in general. The lady I saw behind the counter and who I deduce is the owner in her own way and very nice. To try the restaurant as soon as possible, just out of curiosity.
A week later, two plates of pasta, 1/2 of wine and two cafes... guess what? €35I thought she was wrong... no!! it was right.I went to the Zucche menu which for 12 euros gives you Primo (5 stars) second wine and coffee. but there was a queue and they couldn't get me a table... too bad... I went to the corner and it was empty... now I understand why...