Pasticceria Vago Carlo

Introducing the local businesses that make up Como’s COMO4COMO Community

Italy’s culinary reputation is deeply rooted in its regional diversity, where every city and town offers its own version of excellence. In Como, that richness is found not just in fine dining or lakeside trattorias, but in the everyday rituals—like the morning coffee at a local bar or the quiet joy of a fresh brioche. One of the city’s most beloved institutions is Pasticceria Vago Carlo, a family-run pastry shop and bar that has been part of the community fabric since 1960. Originally opened as a bread shop, it has evolved into a cornerstone of the neighborhood, welcoming everyone from lifelong residents to curious visitors discovering Como for the first time.

The story of Pasticceria Vago Carlo is inseparable from the story of Como itself—particularly its storied football culture. In the 1970s, the shop became an unofficial gathering place for Como 1907 players, many of whom lived just steps away. Players like Tempestilli, Ottoni, and Mannini would begin their days there, as did their coach, who lived directly above the shop. On training days, it was the first stop in the morning and often the last in the afternoon, blending the rhythm of daily life with the rituals of sport. That connection to football wasn’t limited to the local side either. For years, during the final home match before Christmas, Pasticceria Vago Carlo would prepare and hand-deliver panettoni—traditional Italian holiday cakes—to visiting Serie A teams, right there on the pitch, a gesture that bridged competition with camaraderie.

Today, Pasticceria Vago Carlo continues to thrive, not only as a pastry shop and café, but as a symbol of continuity and care. Now part of the COMO4COMO initiative, the shop plays an active role in regional development by participating in the resale of Como 1907 products and contributing to the Fondazione Como. It’s more than just a place to get a coffee or a sweet treat—it’s a testament to what family-run businesses bring to Italian life: consistency, character, and a sense of place that extends well beyond the counter.

Whether you’re looking for a perfectly made pastry, a warm cappuccino, or a piece of the city’s sporting soul, Pasticceria Vago Carlo remains a must-visit. Next time you’re walking through Como, take a moment to stop by Via Gerolamo Borsieri, 24. Some places offer more than food—they offer stories, and Pasticceria Vago Carlo has many to tell.