Como.

Just the name makes you straighten your hat, put on oversized sunglasses, and pretend you’re Sophia Loren rushing to your yacht.

Yesterday, Les Grumpies took the train from Ascona to Lugano and onwards to Como – because driving stresses Mr. Grumpy and trains come with the added bonus of guilt-free napping.

First mission upon arrival: hunt down a tessuti (fabric) shop. Mission accomplished. I found gorgeous linen fabrics in dreamy Mediterranean shades that scream summer elegance – plus some beautiful silk, because Como is the European silk capital after all. Mr. Grumpy rolled his eyes, but secretly approves anything that keeps me creatively busy (and away from reorganising his drawers).

Then came lunch at Osteria la Tana dei Pescatorie. A real gem tucked away from the tourist circus, with fish so fresh it probably booked your table before you did. Tartare and ceviche that made us speechless – a rare feat, as you know.

And Como itself?

Cobbled streets ready to twist your ankles, trendy boutiques that tempt your credit card into cardiac arrest, and an atmosphere that says, “Darling, life is fabulous, even if your feet hurt.”

Fun or unusual facts about Como (to entertain your dinner guests tonight):

🐟 The Lake is deep. Like, really deep – up to 410 metres. Perfect for hiding ex-lovers or giant catfish (yes, legend says there are).

🎬 James Bond approved. The villa seen in Casino Royale is Villa del Balbianello on Lake Como – yes, the one with Daniel Craig in tight swim shorts. You’re welcome for the mental picture.

🧵 Silk capital of Europe. Since the 16th century, Como has been famous for silk production. Next time, Les Grumpies will visit the Museo Didattico della Seta (Silk Museum) to honour all things shiny and smooth – and perhaps to hide from linen shops for a day.

🦢 George Clooney effect. Since he bought his villa here, tourism boomed. No, we didn’t spot him, but the fish tartare was worth the trip.

All in all, a perfect Grumpy day out:

✔️ Linen treasures

✔️ Silk secrets

✔️ Fishy dreams

✔️ Mr. Grumpy mildly complaining about shops

✔️ And the eternal question: Do I need more fabric? (Answer: obviously yes.)