Festival de la Cazoeula

Cazoeula, the soul of Lombard winter

Cazoeula is one of the symbolic dishes of Lombard cuisine: a hearty stew of pork and savoy cabbage, born in peasant kitchens as a humble yet incredibly flavorful dish. Cantù, in the province of Como, dedicates the Festival de la Cazoeula, a travelling gastronomic event founded in 2013, to this winter specialty.

A two-month competition

The festival doesn't take place in a square, but in the restaurants of Cantù and the Como province of Brianza (as well as in the provinces of Como, Lecco, Monza, and Milan). For about two months, from the heart of winter until the end of February, dozens of establishments offer their version of cazoeula, competing to win the Golden Cazoeula award. Customers become protagonists: they choose the restaurant, book, and taste, helping to determine the best interpretations of the dish.

Growing success

From a local event, the Festival de la Cazoeula has become a widespread event across multiple provinces. In 2026, for its 14th edition, a record number of restaurants are competing, a sign of the vitality of a gastronomic tradition deeply rooted in the Brianza region.

Discovering Brianza at the table

Participating in the festival means taking a journey into the cuisine of Como's Brianza, exploring historic trattorias and modern restaurants, all united by their love for this traditional dish. It's an opportunity to discover Cantù and its surroundings during the most convivial season of the year.