Capo Nord, Santa Margherita Ligure, Italy: A Seaside Culinary Gem on the Italian Riviera

Perched between Santa Margherita Ligure and Portofino on the stunning Ligurian coast, Capo Nord offers a magical dining experience right at the water’s edge. The restaurant’s breathtaking seafront location under the Cervara Abbey creates an unforgettable backdrop for your meal.

You’ll discover fresh, Mediterranean cuisine crafted by Chef Makoto Moriyama, who selects the finest ingredients daily. Open for both lunch and dinner during the warmer months from May through September, Capo Nord combines exceptional food with panoramic sea views. When visiting this beautiful stretch of the Italian Riviera, this “pied dans l’eau” (feet in the water) restaurant promises a truly authentic taste of Liguria.

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Capo Nord

Capo Nord is a breathtaking restaurant nestled in the stunning bay between Santa Margherita Ligure and Portofino in Italy. You’ll find tables set right by the water’s edge, giving you an unmatched dining experience with waves lapping just inches away.

The restaurant offers a unique blend of Ligurian and Japanese cuisines, thanks to Chef Makoto Moriyama from Osaka. You can enjoy incredibly fresh seafood sourced directly from local fishing boats. The chef personally selects the catch from Santa Margherita Ligure’s fishermen each day.

What makes this place truly special is its location beneath the ancient Cervara Abbey. As you dine, you can take in panoramic views of the characteristic coastline and lose yourself in the endless blue horizon. The gentle sound of waves creates a relaxing atmosphere perfect for savoring the delicious food.

The dedicated staff works with passion to ensure your experience is unforgettable. From the chef to the sommelier and waitstaff, everyone at Capo Nord is committed to making your meal special. While prices are above average, previous guests consistently say the quality and experience justify every cent.

Rating: 4.6 (477 reviews)
Location: Lungomare Raffaele Rossetti, 7, 16038 Santa Margherita Ligure GE, Italy
Contact: +39 334 898 0620
Website: Visit Website

The Scenic Beauty of Capo Nord

Capo Nord restaurant occupies one of the most stunning locations along the Italian Riviera, nestled between Santa Margherita Ligure and Portofino. The setting creates a magical dining experience where natural beauty enhances every meal.

Breathtaking Views of the Ligurian Coastline

As you dine at Capo Nord, you’ll be mesmerized by the panoramic views of the sparkling Ligurian Sea. The restaurant sits right at the water’s edge—truly “pied dans l’eau” (feet in the water)—giving you front-row seats to the magnificent Gulf of Tigullio.

From your table, you can gaze across the azure waters toward Portofino’s colorful harbor. The restaurant’s position underneath the historic Cervara Abbey adds a touch of ancient charm to the modern dining experience.

At sunset, the view transforms completely. Golden light bathes the coastline, creating a romantic atmosphere that’s hard to match anywhere else in the region. Many visitors time their meals to catch this magical moment.

Unique Flora and Fauna

The natural setting around Capo Nord features typical Mediterranean vegetation that thrives in this protected coastal area. Pine trees create natural shade, while colorful flowers dot the landscape throughout much of the year.

From your seaside table, you might spot various seabirds soaring above the waves or resting on nearby rocks. The clear waters below often reveal small fish darting about near the shore.

The restaurant itself incorporates natural elements into its design, with traditional Ligurian stonework known as “Rissëu” made from black and white pebbles decorating parts of the space. These elements help Capo Nord blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings.

The small dining area makes the most of this spectacular setting, allowing you to feel connected to the landscape while enjoying your meal.

Exploring Capo Nord’s Walking Trails

Capo Nord offers stunning access to some of the most picturesque walking paths in the Santa Margherita Ligure region. The trails surrounding this seaside restaurant provide breathtaking views of the Gulf Tugullio and connect to the larger Portofino Regional Park network.

Popular Hiking Routes

When visiting Capo Nord, you’ll find several remarkable hiking options that showcase the natural beauty of the Ligurian coast. The trail from Santa Margherita to Portofino passes right by Capo Nord, making it a perfect stopping point for refreshments during your walk. This scenic coastal path takes you through olive groves and Mediterranean vegetation with constant sea views.

Another favorite route starts at Capo Nord and winds up toward Parco Regionale di Portofino. This protected coastal area offers paths that showcase diverse plant life and wildlife. The trail features traditional Rissëu stonework—black and white pebble mosaics typical of the Genoa Ligurian region.

Don’t miss the short but rewarding path to the panoramic lookout point just above the restaurant. It’s only a 10-minute climb but rewards you with spectacular views.

Guided Tours and Experiences

Joining a guided walking tour from Capo Nord gives you deeper insights into the region’s natural and cultural heritage. Local guides offer daily excursions that combine hiking with stops for photography at the most scenic viewpoints along Gulf Tugullio.

The restaurant itself sometimes arranges special sunset hikes that culminate in a dinner at Capo Nord. These experiences let you enjoy the changing colors of the Mediterranean sky before settling in for a meal overlooking the gulf.

For families, there are easier guided nature walks that explore the immediate surroundings of Capo Nord. These tours point out local plant species and explain the geological formation of this stunning coastline.

Book these experiences at least a day in advance, especially during summer months when they fill quickly. Most tours include a complimentary beverage at Capo Nord.