15 Best Restaurants in Genoa, Italy in 2024
There’s a vast selection of exceptional restaurants in Genoa, Italy. This breathtaking cultural hub sits in a little corner in the northern part of the Ligurian Sea, where remarkable sights, show-stopping entertainment and the creative arts reign supreme.
Home to many World Heritage Sites, this often-overlooked destination is also one of the world’s best foodie cities. To help you make the most of your trip, we’ve compiled 15 of the top restaurants in Genoa.
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Find the Best Restaurants in Genoa, Italy
Genoa Italy is one of the world’s best foodie cities. It’s a fascinating destination that offers a vibrant selection of culinary delights for travel-goers to explore. Since there are so many restaurants in Genoa, it can be overwhelming to decide which ones are the best of the best.
One way foodies can narrow down their must-visit list is by embarking on a food tour. Food tours in Italy are a great way to find the best restaurants in Genoa and discover hidden gems that only locals know about. You’ll also discover some of the most popular restaurants in Genoa with a professionally guided food tour.
The 15 Best Places To Eat in Genoa, Italy
1. Da Gaia
Serving fresh seafood and Mediterranean dishes, Da Gaia is an affordable restaurant in Genoa touted by past guests as a must-visit. It’s an authentic, well-loved restaurant frequented by locals.
The Vibe
Da Gaia offers simplicity inside a small and cozy atmosphere that’s easy to miss because it’s tucked away in the basement of an old palazzo. It has delightful patio seating at the bottom of a steep alley.
What to Order
The pesto pasta is a Genoan favorite. The beef tartare is also delicious.
Da Gaia | Palazzo di Stefano Lomellini, 16124 Genova GE, Italy | $$
2. I Cuochi
Offering the highest quality, traditional Italian cuisine, I Cuochi cooks up Mediterranean flavors for locals and travelers to savor. It's one of the best restaurants blessing Genoa with the freshest seafood.
The Vibe
Cozy, with warm décor, comfortable seating and an open kitchen, this quaint restaurant in Genoa is the perfect place for a quiet meal and inviting ambiance.
What to Order
You’ll find many great reviews about the delectable duck at I Cuochi. The menu also offers a standout dish of red mullet filet in a rich and tasty bisque.
I Cuochi | Vico del Fieno 18r, 16123, Genoa Italy | $$$
3. Da Quelli ai Rolli
Presenting as a pizzeria, focacceria and salad shop, Da Quelli ai Rolli is a restaurant in Genoa with incredible hot pizzas loaded with the freshest vegetables and homemade sauces.
The Vibe
Probably one of the most fascinating setups for restaurants in Genoa. It’s located inside an old converted bank; you’ll walk through an old rustic safe door to get to your table.
What to Order
The pizza baia is a customer favorite, loaded with capers, onion, anchovies and buffalo mozzarella on top of a perfectly crisp baked dough. The first-rate cheeses and cured meats platter is also a must-try.
Da Quelli ai Rolli | Salita di Santa Caterina 4R Genova, 16123, Genoa Italy | $$$
4. Da Leccarsi i Baffi
One of the best places to eat in Genoa and a hidden gem, Da Leccarsi i Baffi is a family-owned restaurant in Genoa that prepares delicious and authentic Italian, Mediterranean and seafood dishes with vegetarian and gluten-free options. Oh, and it has a phenomenal wine list.
The Vibe
This restaurant in Genoa is hard to find because it isn’t advertised. The inside is small, with tables located close together. It’s great for those wanting a warm and intimate dining experience.
What to Order
Because it’s said to serve the best pesto pasta in Genoa, you’ll want to make sure you order yourself a plate! To try something different, give the varezzine snails a try. Finish your evening on a sweet note with the chefs' not-to-be-missed tiramisú.
Da Leccarsi i Baffi | Piazza Cavour 91/R, 16128, Genoa Italy | $$$
5. Capricci
On the Italian Riviera sits a must-visit steakhouse that serves the highest quality meat. Capricci is a restaurant in Genoa with an excellent wine list and exceptional sommeliers who will help you find the perfect combination for a five-star dining experience.
The Vibe
A chic and elegant interior greets you with white linens and comfortable seating at this outstanding restaurant in Genoa. The atmosphere is inviting, the staff are knowledgeable and there’s a nice lounge bar located behind the restaurant.
What to Order
When visiting this restaurant, you’ll want to try the steak. All the cuts come cooked to perfection and to your liking. If you're not a steak person, then opt for the gnocchi and finish off with a gelato creme caramel for dessert.
Capricci | Via Felice Cavallotti 81R, 16146, Genoa Italy | $$$
6. I Canovacci
A popular restaurant in Genoa that’s the perfect stop for a midday meal, I Canovacci doubles as a dry goods shop, is reasonably priced and offers generous portions from its seasonal menu, featuring fish, pasta, sandwiches and homemade desserts.
The Vibe
This restaurant in Genoa is homey, modern, relaxed and informal. It’s a frequented spot by locals and travelers alike, so expect bustling vibes and good energy radiating throughout the atmosphere.
What to Order
Be sure to try the lasagna, which gets a five-star review from all guests lucky enough to try it. Alternatively, try the turkey sandwich with gorgonzola and sautéed spinach with pistachio.
I Canovacci | Via Dei Macelli Soziglia 60, 16123, Genoa Italy | $$$
7. La Locanda in Centro
This Italian, Mediterranean and barbecue restaurant in Genoa is bursting with old-fashioned character, favoring meat above everything on its fascinating menu. La Locanda offers a very affordable tasting menu and a tempting wine list.
The Vibe
You’ll be charmed as soon as you walk into this restaurant in Genoa. It’s graced with beautiful chandeliers, bare brick walls and a warm, inviting atmosphere. The wine bottles lined along the walls add extra character to this osteria’s comforting interior.
What to Order
Guests who visit La Locanda speak highly of the delectable homemade ravioli. The restaurant also serves a lovely Florentine steak that comes on a hot plate so you can cook it exactly to your liking.
La Locanda | Via Fiasella 70 Genova Central, 16121, Genoa Italy | $$$
8. Pesciolino
Located conveniently in a central location near Via Roma, this restaurant in Genoa is a local favorite for a satisfying lunch or an enjoyable evening meal. Pesciolino serves up seafood, Northern Italian eats and some European food and the meals are surprisingly creative, often adding a fun twist to things like lobster, prawns and octopus.
The Vibe
This restaurant in Genoa is quiet and relatively relaxed. It caters to more of an older, low-key clientele. It has a warm and friendly staff, soft lighting, a pleasant ambiance and various levels including outdoor seating.
What to Order
For an unforgettable culinary delight, the lobster pasta comes highly recommended, as do the fried almond prawns.
Pesciolino | Vico Domoculta 14R, 16123, Genoa Italy | $$$
9. La Moucca
For a convenient and tasty snack during your sightseeing escapades, La Moucca is the perfect stop. It’s a down-to-earth café with two levels, one where you can grab a sandwich or ice cream, another where you can order a succulent burger, hot dog or some snacks. This local favorite also has a wonderful selection of craft beers, perfect on hot days.
The Vibe
This restaurant in Genoa is always very busy. It’s well-loved among the locals and conveniently located in a tourist hot spot. Despite the buzz here, it's always spotless, with simple furniture and ample seating indoors and out.
What to Order
The chicken burger is sure to blow you away.
La Moucca | Piazza della Vittoria 36R, 16121, Genoa Italy | $
10. Trattoria Ugo
While visiting restaurants in Genoa, make sure to stop at an authentic trattoria like this lovely place. Experience old-world charm at Trattoria Ugo and dine on delectable Mediterranean cuisine that includes homemade pasta, seafood and decadent homemade desserts.
The Vibe
Unpretentious and charming, this restaurant in Genoa delivers an authentic Italian dining experience. It’s lined with cozy wood paneling, lanterns hanging from the ceiling and communal tables.
What to Order
The pesto pasta is a customer favorite at this restaurant in Genoa. The ravioli with spinach and walnut sauce is also described as divine.
Trattoria Ugo | Via Dei Giustiniani 86R, 16123, Genoa Italy | $$
11. La Strambata
This delightful restaurant in Genoa is located in a breathtaking setting on Boccadasse Beach, offering tasty breakfasts, sandwiches, salads, burgers and appetizers. La Stramba also serves captivating cocktails for after-dinner beverages and lounging by the shore.
The Vibe
This restaurant in Genoa offers comfortable outdoor seating that's practically on the beach, offering stunning views while you enjoy your meal. As you'd expect given the setting, the atmosphere is as laid-back as it gets.
What to Order
If you're popping into La Strambatta for one of the yummy cappuccinos, be sure to pair it with one of the famous pistachio croissants.
La Strambata | Piazza Nettuno Boccadasse Davanti Alla Spiaggia, 16146, Genoa | $$
12. Antica Trattoria del Porto
A cute little restaurant in Genoa offering traditional Italian, seafood and Mediterranean dishes in a traditional Italian setting. It’s a local hot spot and those looking to soak up the wonder of dining in an authentic atmosphere will enjoy the unpretentious charm at Antica Trattoria del Porto.
The Vibe
This quaint and charming restaurant in Genoa will greet you warmly, with a simple dining setting endowed with cute checkered tablecloths and wooden chairs. Many pictures line the walls, giving you the feeling of dining in grandma’s kitchen. It’s located right on the harbor, looking out over the port.
What to Order
The grilled seafood dish offers exactly what you'd expect — a variety of exceptionally fresh seafood, all grilled to perfection. The stuffed anchovies and the spaghetti alle vongole are also excellent options.
Antica Trattoria del Porto | Piazza Caricamento, 22 r., 16123, Genoa | $$
13. Ristorante Santa Teresa
One of the best places to eat in Genoa is this dazzling Michelin-star restaurant. If you are looking for a five-star dining adventure, look no further than Ristorante Santa Teresa. With over 40 years in the catering sector, this establishment promises a classy cuisine, highlighting the contrast of flavors and quality with refined presentation and state-of-the-art service.
The Vibe
Thanks to its central location, this restaurant in Genoa is popular with locals and travelers alike. It’s quiet and easy to converse inside; tables are covered in white linens and the décor is elegant and modern.
What to Order
Guests at this restaurant in Genoa claim that the octopus with cream of potatoes and saffron is to die for!
Ristorante Santa Teresa | Via di Porta Soprana, 55R, 16100, Genoa Italy | $$$
14. Pizzeria Ristorante Piedigrotta
If you’re craving pizza, Pizzeria Ristorante Piedigrotta is one of the best places to eat in Genoa. Offering huge pizzas and Italian and European eats inside a family-style atmosphere, you’ll be glad you stopped here for a meal. Here, you’ll enjoy a casual time and some really good food.
The Vibe
Unpretentious and very welcoming, this restaurant in Genoa is a charming place to enjoy a meal with the whole family. Its exterior is inviting with well-maintained plants and a large, colonial wooden door. The staff are highly professional and friendly to add to the exceptional experience you’ll encounter.
What to Order
The Sunset pizza is a must-try, featuring tomato, smoked provolone, sausage, grilled aubergines, grilled peppers and grilled courgettes.
Pizzeria Ristorante Piedigrotta | Piazza Gerolamo Savonarola, 27/R, 16129, Genoa | $$
15. Antica Gelateria
Finally, for the best gelato in Genoa, stop at the famous Antica Gelateria. This family-owned ice cream shop has a long history, having been serving the Genovese people and happy travelers since 1927. You’ll find an overwhelming selection of the finest handcrafted gelato and popsicles for a nice treat along your sightseeing adventure.
The Vibe
This restaurant in Genoa is homey and fun, radiating happy vibes near the seaside. It’s typically a busy shop, serving locals and guests as they go about their daily activities. Many people like to enjoy an ice cream here as they gaze at the sunset along the shoreline.
What to Order
The chocolate and nocciola are two lovely recommendations but we suggest allowing your tastebuds to explore some of the many creative flavors that this restaurant in Genoa offers.
Antica Gelateria | Piazza Nettuno 7R, Via Aurora 1a R, 16146, Genoa | $
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Along your travels in breathtaking Genoa, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to dabble in some of its most authentic cuisine, and these restaurants are a wonderful place to start exploring.
Genoa is truly a foodie wonderland, filled with many sights to see and you’ll have no trouble finding an unforgettable dining experience here. Whether you’re on the hunt for an exquisite fine-dining adventure or some simple appetizers in a laid-back setting as you sip on cocktails, there’s a wide array of restaurants in Genoa to satisfy every desire.
For even more ways to explore Genoa and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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