Casa Balsamo

The historic family restaurant on the Ligurian Levant sees young Matteo in the kitchen, marking the fifth generation of Rezzano involved in this field. This year they've also recruited Jorg Giubbani, who boasts stellar experiences in the area, further elevating the quality of the offering with three tasting menus primarily dedicated to seafood and gardens (three in total) to deliver dishes consistently delicate but flavourful, balanced in pairings, never contrived and visually striking. We were particularly conquered by the caponata of mackerel and desserts, all served in the lovely veranda ov

In Portofino, the celebrated chef Cracco has installed himself in the building that was once no less than Il Pitosforo, right in front of the small harbour, guaranteeing his lucky guests a view of it, the piazzetta and the enchanting gulf. Through the skill and expertise of executive chef Mattia Pecis, it offers a moderately modern line of cuisine, in two tasting courses - 7 courses or 11 courses - which do not lack beautiful references to Ligurian recipes and ingredients (many vegetables directly from the Fescion Farmer's vegetable garden, a short distance away, in the mountains), with the no

Since 1987, this trattoria, regarded as one of the finest in Italy, has been the domain of the Circella family. Guests come here to savour local cuisine and authentic hospitality. The menu is a journey through local flavours and recipes, with generous and fragrant dishes, enriched by the “dishes of the year” introduced from 2010 onwards. Dishes not to be missed include the ravioli with herbs and Sarazzu with aged cow's milk ricotta from Val d'Aveto, enveloped in a sauce made from local hazelnuts, and the slow-cooked suckling pig with bay leaves and chestnuts. Downstairs, an excellent wine cell

On the beautiful coast road, just a short walk from the seafront, you’ll find a place that exudes tradition and hospitality. A family-run eatery where time seems to move slowly and Ligurian seafood cuisine takes centre stage. Every dish tells a story of authentic flavours, lovingly prepared and served alfresco in summer, inviting guests to enjoy the sea breeze and the pleasure of good company. The inspector recommends: “brandacujun” (made with dried cod and potatoes) or calamari on the “ciappa” (a stone slab), served with potatoes and “preboggion” (cooked wild herbs).

After over 60 years in business, this trattoria, which started out in a warehouse that was once used to store fishing nets, is still a reliable choice in terms of quality and price. Located in the centre of the little village, simple and old-fashioned, with outdoor seating overlooking the characteristic narrow street, it still serves the same deliciously tasty and generous Ligurian seafood cuisine it did when it first opened. The fish soup is a great classic, but is rivalled by some delicious versions of fish tartare.

Anticipate a little time and patience tackling a winding progressively less urban road to reach, inland, San Desiderio, where Bruxaboschi has been delighting clients since 1862 under the same familial management. It will be worth it. Rightly renowned, the cuisine pays homage to local traditions (nearly exclusively meat), commencing with an excellent Genoese cima, picagge and pansotti among pastas, and fried rabbit. In season, obligingly, is the unmissable fungi engagement.

Just a few steps from the central Piazza De Ferrari, this authentic trattoria – a point of reference for Ligurian cooking for fifteen years – continues to delight its guests with dishes prepared according to tradition. Its popularity is such that booking well in advance is almost always essential. Beyond the unmissable brandacujun and the classic trofie al pesto alla genovese, the accomplished chef Alessandro Massone also puts his name to a wealth of other specialities, born of passion, experience and a sincere devotion to the regional kitchen. A straightforward and generous table, one that te