Nestled in the beautiful Italian Riviera, Santa Margherita Ligure is a feast for the senses with its stunning coastal views and vibrant culinary scene. As you stroll through the charming streets, the aroma of fresh seafood and Italian spices draws you in, promising an unforgettable dining experience. Santa Margherita Ligure offers a plethora of dining options that cater to every taste and preference, making it a must-visit for food lovers.
In this picturesque town, the restaurants are more than just places to eat—they are gateways to Italian culture and tradition. Whether you’re looking for a casual meal or a fine dining experience, Santa Margherita Ligure has something special for you.
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Trattoria da Pezzi
When you’re in Santa Margherita Ligure, you should stop at Trattoria da Pezzi. This charming spot has been serving traditional Genovese dishes since 1964. Located in the heart of town, it’s just a short walk from the sea.
The menu is packed with authentic flavors. You can try stuffed anchovies, ravioli, and fresh salads that showcase local ingredients. Each dish is prepared with care, reflecting the rich culinary heritage of the Liguria region.
Fans of the restaurant praise its cozy atmosphere and friendly staff. Reviewers frequently mention Igor, who is known for his warm service. You won’t just enjoy your meal; you’ll feel like part of the family.
Dining here gives you a taste of real Ligurian culture. Escape the tourist traps and experience a genuine local favorite with a great value for your money.
Il Leccio
When you’re in Santa Margherita Ligure, a visit to Il Leccio is a delightful treat. Nestled in a picturesque spot on Via Giuntini 14, this restaurant offers an authentic Italian dining experience. The cozy atmosphere and welcoming staff make you feel right at home.
Il Leccio is famous for its delicious Italian dishes. The menu features a wide range of options, including classic pasta, seafood, and mouth-watering desserts. With an average price of €25, it’s a place where comfort meets affordability.
Dining here means enjoying a meal while surrounded by the beautiful Ligurian landscape. The outdoor seating is an excellent choice when the weather is nice. You get to experience the fresh air and lovely views while savoring your favorite Italian dishes.
Reservations are recommended. This ensures that you have a fantastic spot to enjoy your meal. It’s easy to do so with their helpful contact options. Many visitors appreciate the combination of tasty food and pleasant service at Il Leccio.
Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or a casual lunch, Il Leccio is worth a visit. The charming setting and the delicious menu make it a memorable dining experience in Santa Margherita Ligure.
La Paranza da Marina
When you’re in Santa Margherita Ligure, you can’t miss La Paranza da Marina. With its deep-rooted history, this restaurant has been a staple since 1955.
Located in the charming district of Corte, it sits right in front of the port. The view of the Gulf of Tigullio from here is simply stunning.
The restaurant combines passion, hospitality, and traditional seafood dishes. You can expect to enjoy specialties like Gamberi rossi and wild red tuna.
La Paranza has remained true to local flavors, even after changing management in 2018. This ensures every dish reflects the unique taste of the region.
It’s highly rated by visitors and a favorite among locals. Book a table and let yourself be carried away by the tastes and views of this iconic spot.
Levante Santa Margherita Ligure
You should visit Levante in Santa Margherita Ligure. It’s known for its fantastic Italian and Mediterranean dishes. The restaurant serves delectable seafood, with salmon and spaghetti vongole as standout options.
Located at Piazza Martiri della Libertà , it offers a cozy setting. You might find yourself enjoying tasty tiramisu for dessert.
The welcoming atmosphere of Levante makes it an ideal spot to relax. The restaurant showcases the best of Italian hospitality. With an impressive average rating from many reviews, it’s a favorite among both locals and tourists.
Reservations are recommended, especially during peak times. It’s always bustling with guests eager to savor the rich flavors of Italy. Don’t miss this charming spot when you’re in town.
Il Patio
When you visit Santa Margherita Ligure, Il Patio is a must-visit restaurant. Located at Via Palestro, 26, this spot is known for its unique atmosphere and excellent Mediterranean cuisine.
The menu features a range of delicious options, including both seafood and meat dishes. Fans of pasta will enjoy the clam pasta, a favorite among diners. For dessert, don’t miss the apple pie, which receives rave reviews.
Il Patio offers a lively and inviting setting, perfect for enjoying a meal with friends or family. Diners have noted that while service can be leisurely, it adds to the relaxed, enjoyable experience.
Whether you’re in town for a short visit or a long stay, make sure to stop by Il Patio for a memorable meal.
Ristorante Antonio
When you visit Santa Margherita Ligure, Ristorante Antonio is a must-see spot for food lovers. Known for its cozy atmosphere and friendly service, it provides a delightful dining experience. The restaurant’s charm is enhanced by its location in this beautiful Italian town.
The menu at Ristorante Antonio features a variety of delicious Italian dishes. You can enjoy meals that range from fresh seafood to classic pasta. Dining here won’t break the bank either, with prices generally ranging from €20 to €39.
Ristorante Antonio is popular on review sites, often praised for both food and service. Many visitors recommend asking for the waiter’s suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable. Whether you are a local or just passing through, you are likely to leave satisfied.
To ensure a table, it’s a good idea to call ahead and book in advance, especially during the busy season. This way, you can enjoy your meal without any wait. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a day in town, Ristorante Antonio offers a warm welcome.
Spaghetti Vongole at Local Favorite
If you’re in Santa Margherita Ligure, trying the spaghetti vongole is a must. This seafood pasta dish is a local favorite and captures the essence of Italian coastal cuisine. Restaurants like Taverna del Marinaio are famous for whipping up this delicious meal.
The fresh clams combined with perfectly cooked spaghetti create a flavorful experience. You’ll find the flavors are enhanced with garlic, olive oil, and hint of white wine. Each bite is a mix of sea and savory goodness.
Many places prepare spaghetti vongole with care, making it a memorable dish. Enjoying this meal on an outdoor terrace gives you a taste of local life. As you savor each bite, the surroundings add to the delightful experience.
Grigliata Mista di Pesce Specialty
When visiting Santa Margherita Ligure, you should definitely try the Grigliata Mista di Pesce. This dish is a delightful assortment of freshly grilled fish and seafood, perfect for those who love ocean flavors. Picture yourself savoring this meal, perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection.
Trattoria San Siro is a popular spot to enjoy this specialty. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and delicious dishes, it ranks among the top choices in town. The mixed seafood grill includes a variety of catches that bring the taste of the sea right to your plate.
The fresco dining experience at Santa Margherita Ligure’s restaurants enhances the enjoyment of Grigliata Mista di Pesce. As you sit outside, you’re treated to the scenic views of the Italian Riviera. This makes for a relaxing dining experience that pairs wonderfully with the meal.
Serving local wines alongside the dish adds a touch of elegance to your meal. Many restaurants offer a great selection, allowing you to complement your seafood with a crisp local white wine. It’s an experience not to be missed when you’re exploring this beautiful coastal town.
Trofie Pesto Signature Dish
When in Santa Margherita Ligure, enjoying a plate of Trofie al Pesto is a must. This town in the Italian Riviera is famed for this delicious dish. Trofie is a short, twisted pasta, which pairs perfectly with the region’s iconic basil pesto.
You will find this dish featured in many local restaurants, often praised for its fresh flavors. The pesto sauce is made with basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. These ingredients come together to create a delightful green sauce.
The dish reflects the culinary traditions of Liguria, combining simple yet high-quality local ingredients. Locals recommend trying Trofie al Pesto at Osteria Numero 7. Known for homemade pasta, this dish there is a favorite among patrons.
Focaccia Must-Try
When you visit Santa Margherita Ligure, trying the focaccia is a must. This town in the Italian Riviera is known for its delicious varieties of this iconic bread. Focaccia here is often topped with fresh olive oil and herbs, creating a simple but flavorful treat that you won’t forget.
Santa Margherita offers several spots where you can find the best focaccia. Many restaurants and local bakeries pride themselves on their traditional recipes, ensuring an authentic taste. Some places offer unique flavors, adding olives, onions, or tomatoes for extra zest.
As you explore, consider visiting the local restaurants known for their excellent focaccia, such as Ristorante Antonio. This family-run spot serves homemade Italian dishes, and their focaccia is a must for any traveler.
Whether you eat it as a quick snack or as part of a meal, focaccia in Santa Margherita Ligure will delight your taste buds. Be sure to compare the different styles and flavors to find your favorite.
Local Ingredients and Cuisine
Santa Margherita Ligure boasts a rich culinary tradition deeply rooted in its local ingredients. You’ll find this picturesque town offers something special for anyone who appreciates fresh flavors and traditional Italian cuisine.
Fresh Seafood
With its coastal location on the Italian Riviera, Santa Margherita Ligure’s seafood is both abundant and exceptionally fresh. Local fishermen bring in a daily catch that includes anchovies, squid, and bream. These fresh fish are often grilled, baked, or used in flavorful stews. Dining here allows you to enjoy octopus salads and stuffed mussels, presenting a true taste of the sea.
Beyond the traditional, many restaurants experiment with new dishes using local seafood. You might find unique pairings like prawn risotto or squid ink pasta. Pair these dishes with a glass of local Cinque Terre white wine to enhance your culinary experience.
Traditional Italian Flavors
Santa Margherita Ligure captures the essence of Italian cuisine through its traditional flavors. Basil pesto is a staple, often served with fresh pasta like trofie. The olive oil used is locally produced, adding a rich depth to salads and main courses. You’ll savor dishes that include cima alla Genovese, a stuffed veal breast, and farinata di ceci, a chickpea flatbread.
Restaurants here love using seasonal produce. You’ll often find artichokes, zucchini flowers, and even chestnuts in many dishes. These ingredients, combined with cheeses like pecorino and local wines, create flavors unique to this Ligurian town. Stewed dishes and savory pies bring warmth and comfort, reflecting the region’s heritage.
Dining by the Sea
In Santa Margherita Ligure, dining by the sea is a memorable experience. You’ll find fantastic restaurants right by the water, offering stunning views and delicious meals. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a meal with a scenic backdrop or have a romantic dinner as the sun sets, this coastal town has plenty to offer.
Scenic Beachfront Restaurants
Imagine sitting at a table with the gentle sound of waves nearby as you enjoy mouth-watering dishes. Santa Margherita Ligure is home to many beachfront restaurants with spectacular views. Fresh seafood is often a highlight here, with dishes like Spaghetti Vongole or Focaccia adding to the Italian coastal charm.
Many of these dining spots offer outdoor seating, perfect for soaking up the sun and sea. La Cambusa is one spot where you can enjoy a lively terrace atmosphere. It’s ideal for those who wish to pair their meal with breathtaking scenery. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak tourist season, to secure the best sea view.
Romantic Sunset Dinners
For a romantic dinner, the coastline of Santa Margherita Ligure provides an enchanting setting. As the sun lowers, restaurants such as Il Leccio and Il Patio offer cozy environments ideal for a sunset dinner. These spots not only provide excellent food but also magical views that enhance the dining experience.
Dishes often include a variety of seafood, paired with local or international wines. The gentle sea breeze adds to the romantic atmosphere, making it a perfect evening getaway for couples. To capture the full effect, timing your visit with the sunset is key to enjoying an unforgettable meal by the sea.
Wine and Dine Experience
Santa Margherita Ligure offers a delightful mix of Italian cuisine and local wines. You’ll find dining spots serving authentic dishes paired with regional wines, creating a memorable taste experience.
Regional Wine Pairings
When dining in Santa Margherita Ligure, pairing your meal with the right wine can make all the difference. The region is famous for Vermentino, a light white wine that complements seafood dishes like mussels and Spaghetti Vongole. Another local choice is Pigato, a crisp wine enhancing the flavors of dishes like trofie pesto.
For those who enjoy red wine, try Rossese di Dolceacqua, known for its fruity notes and perfect with flavorful meat dishes. Restaurants often feature international wines, but trying these local varieties offers a truly authentic experience.
Check out our articles on best hotels in Santa Margherita Ligure, Italy and best things to do in Santa Margherita Ligure, Italy.
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in Santa Margherita Ligure! Look for deals here:
Santa Margherita Ligure Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs
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