Long queues after midnight in Italy are usually the domain of bars and clubs. In Como, you can add focacceria to that exclusive list.

A stone’s throw away from the Stadio Sinigaglia, Il Forno Lo Fiego is something of an institution in the city by the lake, feeding football fans and revellers alike through its unorthodox opening hours.

Since 2001, Roberto Lo Fiego has opened his doors at midnight, serving up sweet and savoury goods all the way through until 1pm.

It makes it the perfect calling point for Lariani after a late evening kick off, providing the perfect partner for soaking up the post-match pint or two.

Its opening hours also make it easy to track down, its lights a beacon on an otherwise tranquil Via Borgo Vico. That glow is used to show off an array of pastries calling out to Como’s fatigued and famished.

Among the goods available are a host of stuffed focaccia and pizza slices, all of which are baked on site, in a four-tier oven in the depths of the shop.

Sold by the kilo, each item is individually priced, but those extra cents are always worth it for that thick slice of ham or that extra layer of cheese. A stuffed focaccia is typically between £10 and £12.

By daylight, it turns into something of a breakfast spot, with locals picking up the various types of pane available, along with morning favourites such as cornettos doing a roaring trade.

With nowhere to sit and enjoy, Il Forno is all about the taste and anticipation, with strangers striking up conversations in a line that can often leave customers waiting 15 minutes or more for their fix – even in the small hours. Like everything in life though, good things come to those who wait.

Address: Via Borgo Vico, 116, Como. Opens: Monday to Sunday, midnight to 1pm