Terrazza 241 located at Hilton Lake Como, now features a modern glass house with new contemporary design and expansive windows that enhance the jaw-dropping panoramic scenery, to be enjoyed all year round. An exclusive new sensory cocktail menu, curated in partnership with local artistic perfumers, Acqua del Lario, is available now at Terraza 241 until September 2023, where a selection of fragrances are theatrically presented, with cocktails expertly crafted based on preference. Boasting an enchanted atmosphere surrounded by the magnificent backdrop of rolling mountains, lush foliage, and the crystal blue shores of the iconic lake below, Terrazza 241 is the perfect setting for unforgettable moments, whether an informal lunch with your loved ones or important business meetings.
Giuseppe and Giacomo
Enriching the outdoor space, the exclusive new design introduces a bright and airy glass house structure allowing diners to delight in breath-taking 360-degree views throughout the seasons. Adorning the restyled interior are sumptuous furnishings including plush sofas, snug armchairs, and elegant pieces throughout, framed by verdant bountiful plants.
Matthias Welzel, General Manager at Hilton Lake Como comments: ‘We are absolutely thrilled to launch the newly designed Terrazza 241 in perfect time for the spring and summer season. We look forward to our guests enjoying the beautiful surroundings and exceptional gastronomic offering.”
The Food and Beverage team at Hilton Lake Como has come up with an exciting theme called ‘sense, sip and repeat’ the delectable new medley of sensory tipples in partnership with Como-based perfume company Acqua del Lario. Cocktail enthusiasts will have the chance to choose between four niche ‘Acqua del Lario’ perfumes theatrically presented in a lavish box, with each fragrance inspired by Lake Como, named after Como winds and linked to cocktails on the menu. The mouth-watering selection features four signature cocktails characterized by a sensory experience; four smoked cocktails created with different smoking techniques; four coffee-based cocktails perfect for an after-dinner aperitif and four mocktails for the sober curious.
Amongst the full offering, guests can opt for the NOVA; combining the Ventone fresh fragrance paired with Mountain pine gin, lime, green tea and bergamot orange, denoting a freshness and zest accentuated by the citrus notes of grapefruit and bergamot; or ASH combined with the Breva woody fragrance, and its floral undertones and hints of cedar wood blended with ingredients such as hibiscus vermouth, apple, rose and prosecco.
Giuseppe Trovato, Rooftop Manager at Terrazza 241 says: “We are incredibly excited to launch this unique and experiential cocktail concept in partnership with Acqua del Lario. It gives our guests the opportunity to discover local fragrances paired with delicious and refined cocktails, created by myself and head bartender Ludmila Samohin, in a fun and interactive way.” Offering live music entertainment in the evening, the stunning new design of Terrazza 241 paired with a tantalizing sensory cocktail menu makes for the perfect spot to relax, unwind and reconnect with one’s senses.
In this feature we speak to Giacomo Sada, Food and Drinks Director at Hilton Lake Como.
What was the thought process behind combining perfumes with cocktails?
Our aim is to give Terrazza 241’s guests an authentic and unforgettable sensory experience, stimulating the five senses. We started from the experience of touch, associating a cocktail with the sensation usually felt by touching fabric, to a taste experience with “eat your drink” cocktails, and finally we created the perfumes experience, in partnership with Acqua del Lario (A Como-based perfume company). Cocktail enthusiasts have the chance to choose between four niche ‘Acqua del Lario’ perfumes theatrically presented in a lavish box. Each fragrance is inspired by Lake Como, named after Como winds and linked to cocktails on the menu.
How has the response been so far from your guests?
Our guests are very intrigued by this unique experience. First of all, this is a very unique experience you can only find at Terrazza 241. Secondly, there is a strong link with the location, in fact each fragrance is inspired by the winds of Lake Como. We have noticed that travellers are increasingly looking for unique experiences.
Which is the most popular cocktail from this new list?
The most popular cocktail is EGO (combined with Bellanasco): a woody fragrance, together with floral undertones and hints of cedar wood blended with ingredients such as hibiscus vermouth, apple, rose and prosecco.
Do guests also buy the perfumes which are showcased or these only for the experience?
Guests have the opportunity to buy the perfumes directly at the hotel or at the Acqua del Lario store, located in the historic centre of Como city.
Which foods/cuisines pair well with these cocktails?
These cocktails are designed to be enjoyed during the Aperitivo time, before dinner, paired with small bites and finger food.
Which is your favourite cocktail from this list so far?
My favourite drink is Nova, combining the Ventone fresh fragrance, paired with Mountain pine gin, lime, green tea and bergamot orange. It denotes a freshness and zest accentuated by the citrus notes of grapefruit and bergamot.
Have you thought of combining fashion with cocktails too?
In the past we combined cocktails with luxury fabrics such as silk and jeans. We were inspired by Como city’s heritage. The city of Como is famous all over the world for its skill in the art of weaving, especially the production of silk and precious fabrics for the fashion sector. This activity has very ancient roots: there is evidence of weaving as early as pre-Roman times.
Future plans?
The perfume experience will be available throughout the year. Then we will continue the journey with a new sensory experience. What do you think will be the next?
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