Liguria Guide

FROM WEST TO EAST

Ristorante Pozzale – Palmaria  @Pescato

A rustic and simple restaurant on the island of Palmaria, opposite Porto Venere. You can get there after a walk—choosing from several trails – or by boat. Enjoy dishes like *muscoli alla marinara* (mussels in marinara sauce), spaghetti with mussel ragout, and fried fish, while spending a splendid day.

Osteria all’Inferno dal 1905 – La Spezia @osteriainferno.it

Each province and city in Liguria has its own distinct dishes. To experience the cuisine of La Spezia, “Inferno” is a must-visit: try stuffed mussels with mortadella, *mesciua* (a legume soup), ravioli stuffed with mussels, and more in one of the city’s oldest taverns.

Trattoria La Brinca – Ne, Genoa @La Brinca

The Circella family has made significant contributions to Ligurian and Italian cuisine. The menu blends history, research, tradition, and sustainability. Highlights include pesto, *brandacujun* (a traditional Ligurian dish), and *cima* (stuffed veal). They also have an extensive wine list.

Trattoria Raieü – Lavagna, Genoa @Ristorante Raieu 

Chef and fisherman Lorenzo Dasso focuses on less common fish species, transforming them into simple dishes like carpaccio or using them as fillings and sauces for fresh pasta. The other ingredients come from the family’s farm.

Luchin – Chiavari, Genoa @Antica Osteria Luchin Chiavari

A historic venue in the center of Chiavari, renowned for serving one of the best *farinate* (chickpea flour pancakes) in Liguria. They also offer classic regional dishes like linguine with pesto, *crocchini* with sweetbreads and herbs, and soups.

Duo – Chiavari, Genoa @ristorante_duo

Located behind Chiavari’s market square, this restaurant run by a couple in life and in work offers a carefully curated dining experience that balances garden and sea flavors.

Da Laura – San Fruttuoso, Camogli 

A small selection of perfect dishes for a break after one of Italy’s most beautiful hikes, from Camogli to San Fruttuoso. Enjoy seafood appetizers and *lasagnetta al pesto* to recharge.

Fermento – Camogli, Genoa @fermento_camogli

In the center of Camogli, Fermento offers natural wines, a small kitchen, many smiles, and occasionally live music and producer meetings. It’s the kind of place you’d want near your home.

Revello – Camogli, Genoa @revellocamogli1964

Sometimes, waiting in line is worth it. Located on Camogli’s beach, this establishment is a staple for Ligurian focaccia, including the famous *focaccia di Recco*, and other delights baked right before your eyes.

U Giancu – San Massimo, Genoa @ugiancu

Set on the hills behind Rapallo, this tavern also serves as a comic book museum, featuring quirky decor, traditional dishes with fresh herbs, and a magical atmosphere. It’s worth the trip.

Il Marin – Genoa @ilmarinristorante

On the top floor of the Eataly complex, Chef Marco Visciola brings the Mediterranean and Ligurian traditions to life in refined, creative dishes.

Il Genovese – Genoa @ilgenovese_official

You haven’t truly tasted pesto until you’ve tried it here. They also excel in meatballs, fried zucchini flowers, and other classic Genoese dishes, all prepared to perfection. Stock up on pesto while you can!

Trattoria dell’Acciughetta – Genoa @tdacciughetta

A charming outdoor area in the square, a mostly fresh fish menu that changes frequently, and a young, friendly staff make this a delightful spot.

Sa Pesta – Genoa @antica_sapesta

You come for Paolo’s *farinata* and stay for the vegetable pies, stuffed anchovies, stewed tripe, pesto, and all those dishes that evoke Liguria—or introduce you to new flavors.

Antica Friggitoria Carega – Genoa @antica__friggitoria__carega

A bakery and fry shop that would be a dangerous temptation if it were in your neighborhood. Open from 8:30 AM to 7:00 PM, it offers *farinate* and fried fish all day. What more could you need?

A Spurcacciuna – Savona @aspurcacciuna

For a special occasion, this is the place to indulge in a carefree dinner with all the trimmings. Next door are Sushi Beach and Bistrot Marea if you’re in the mood for something different.

La Ruggia, Varigotti – Savona @laruggia.varigotti

A restaurant and beach club with an enchanting terrace overlooking the sea, perfect for both aperitifs and dinner. The menu features classic Ligurian seafood and excellent cocktails.

Osteria Didù – Imperia

Just steps from the Cathedral of Imperia, this tavern offers an elegant setting with a menu that sometimes deviates from traditional Ligurian cuisine but will pleasantly surprise you with its simple goodness.

Ristorante Casa Della Rocca – Imperia @Ristorante Casa Della Rocca

Located in the village of Dolcedo, worth a visit itself, this restaurant offers sea and mountain cuisine inside a 20th-century mill.

Cian de Bià, Badalucco – Imperia

In the home of the Taggiasca olive, this tavern in the historic center of Badalucco feels like a typical Ligurian home. Ivo and Franca, along with their son Matteo, offer homemade cuisine with traditional recipes from the Argentina Valley, featuring snails, chestnuts, wild boar, and more.

Ristorante Trattoria Terme – ristoranteterme.com

In the village of Pigna, this trattoria has been an institution for generations. The Lanteri family has been passing down typical Western Ligurian recipes for years. Depending on the season, mushrooms or artichokes are prominent, and the milk-fed lamb with herbs is a must-try.

Marco Polo – Imperia @marcopolo1960

On the seafront of Ventimiglia, Marco Polo 1960 has welcomed customers for over 60 years in a place steeped in history, offering fresh, traditional dishes. The interiors evoke a sailing ship, and the seaside garden is a unique gem. In the summer, a beach kiosk complements the beach club experience. In the city center, Trattoria Pani, run by the same family, offers more traditional and homely fare.

Locanda Marinai, Bordighera – Imperia @dede_pani

In the historic center of Bordighera, this inn, or rather elegant bistro, enjoys one of the best locations in the village. It is inspired by the Italian “Dolce Vita,” with music, works, atmosphere, and dishes typical of Italian tradition, all executed to perfection.

Balzi Rossi, Ventimiglia – Imperia @ristorantebalzirossi

Located on the last Italian cliff before France, Chef Enrico Marmo presents dishes that tell the story of his sea and mountains. The “Rabbit in 7 courses” showcases his mastery of ingredients and local products. The rest is for you to discover.

La Marinella, Golfo dei poeti @LaMarinella_Golfodeipoeti 

The Bistrot la Marinella, in the heart of the Gulf of Poets, offers traditional Ligurian cuisine and a breathtaking view of the bay of San Terenzo (SP)