Da I Gemelli, Portofino, Italy: A Charming Seaside Restaurant with Delightful Mediterranean Cuisine

Da I Gemelli is a delightful Italian restaurant nestled in the charming coastal town of Portofino. Located just off the center square facing the water, this establishment offers a genuine Italian cuisine experience focused on taste and innovation. The restaurant specializes in Ligurian and Northern-Italian seafood dishes that showcase the fresh flavors of the Mediterranean.

You’ll enjoy not only exceptional food but also fabulous service and beautiful ambiance. Da I Gemelli overlooks the pier, providing stunning views while you dine. The restaurant is open daily for lunch from noon to 3:00 pm and dinner from 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm, making it an ideal spot for any meal during your visit to this picturesque Italian destination.

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I Gemelli

I Gemelli is a charming family-owned restaurant nestled in the picturesque harbor of Portofino, Italy. Run by twin brothers Paolo and Matteo, this restaurant represents the eighth generation of a family dedicated to the culinary arts since 1850.

The restaurant specializes in authentic Ligurian cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood. Many of their recipes have been passed down through generations, with the brothers learning traditional cooking secrets from their mother and grandmother.

When you visit I Gemelli, you’ll experience genuine Italian hospitality in one of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful settings. The restaurant’s prime location on Portofino’s famous harbor offers stunning views while you dine on local specialties.

You can contact Paolo and Matteo directly through Instagram for reservations, where they also share updates and showcase their daily culinary creations.

Rating: 4.1 (548 reviews)
Location: Calata Marconi, 7, 16034 Portofino GE, Italy
Contact: +39 0185 269257
Website: Visit Website

History of Da I Gemelli

Da I Gemelli is a restaurant with deep roots in Portofino, spanning multiple generations of family ownership. The restaurant’s story is a testament to preserving culinary traditions while evolving with the times.

Founding and Origins

Da I Gemelli’s story begins around 1850 when the first generation of the family entered the restaurant business. What makes this establishment special is the family heritage that has been carefully preserved for eight generations. The restaurant takes its name “I Gemelli” (meaning “The Twins” in Italian) from the current family members running the business.

The restaurant sits in one of Portofino’s prime locations, offering stunning views of the Italian coastline. When you visit, you’ll notice the historic photographs lining the walls. These images tell the story of previous owners and highlight the restaurant’s long-standing presence in this picturesque coastal town.

Evolution Over the Years

Over the decades, Da I Gemelli has evolved while maintaining its commitment to authentic Ligurian cuisine. The restaurant is currently owned by Matteo, who represents the third generation of the more recent family ownership. Under his guidance, the restaurant continues to thrive and exceed customer expectations.

What makes Da I Gemelli special is how they’ve preserved family recipes. The current menu features culinary secrets passed down from the owners’ mother and grandmother’s traditional Ligurian cooking. You’ll taste this heritage in their fresh seafood dishes and homemade pasta.

The interior decor has been updated to feature pristine white furniture, creating a bright contrast to the historic photographs that document the restaurant’s legacy. This blend of history and modern touches gives you both comfort and a connection to Portofino’s past.

Signature Dishes and Culinary Approach

Da I Gemelli combines traditional Ligurian cuisine with modern innovation. Their culinary philosophy centers on respecting local traditions while adding creative touches that enhance the dining experience.

Traditional Italian Flavors

You’ll find authentic tastes of Liguria at Da I Gemelli, where homemade pasta stands as a cornerstone of their menu. Their pasta dishes showcase the region’s culinary heritage with remarkable attention to detail. The restaurant, now in its third generation of family ownership, preserves time-honored recipes.

Fresh seafood features prominently, reflecting Portofino’s coastal location. You might enjoy their seafood pasta, prepared with the day’s catch from local waters.

The modern twist on classic dishes makes Da I Gemelli special without sacrificing authenticity. Matteo, the third-generation owner, ensures each dish honors his family’s culinary legacy while meeting contemporary tastes.

Seasonal and Local Ingredients

You’ll taste the difference that seasonal ingredients make in every bite at Da I Gemelli. The restaurant follows the natural rhythm of Liguria’s growing seasons, changing their menu to showcase the best available produce.

Local wines complement the food perfectly, with selections carefully chosen to pair with specific dishes. The staff can recommend regional varieties that enhance your meal.

The restaurant sources ingredients from nearby producers, ensuring freshness and supporting the local economy. This farm-to-table approach is central to their philosophy.

Seafood comes directly from Portofino’s waters, often caught the same day it’s served. This commitment to locality creates more vibrant flavors and a truly authentic dining experience that connects you to the region’s culinary traditions.

The Dining Experience at Da I Gemelli

Da I Gemelli offers a memorable dining experience that combines exceptional cuisine with breathtaking views. The family-run restaurant creates an atmosphere that feels both elegant and welcoming.

Ambiance and Decor

When you enter Da I Gemelli, you’re greeted by an atmosphere that balances sophistication with homey comfort. The restaurant has been run by the same family for generations – some sources suggest it’s now in its third generation, while others mention it’s an impressive eighth generation family business.

The interior features traditional Italian design elements that create a warm, inviting space. You’ll notice tasteful decorations that reflect the coastal heritage of Portofino without being overly touristy.

Tables are arranged to provide intimate dining spaces, perfect for romantic meals or special occasions. The attentive service enhances the experience, with staff who are knowledgeable about both the menu and local traditions.

Location and Scenic Views

Da I Gemelli boasts one of the most stunning restaurant locations in Italy. Perched in Portofino, the restaurant offers diners incredible panoramic views of the harbor and surrounding landscape.

You’ll want to request a table with a view if possible – the vista of colorful buildings, luxury yachts, and the Mediterranean Sea creates a postcard-perfect backdrop for your meal.

The restaurant actually has two locations: the main Da I Gemelli establishment and Gemelli Al Molo, both offering spectacular settings. The views are especially magical during sunset, when the golden light bathes the harbor.

This prime location means you can enjoy a leisurely meal while watching the comings and goings of boats in one of Italy’s most picturesque coastal villages.