Da Nicola in Portofino, Italy: A Charming Seaside Dining Experience

Nestled in the picturesque town of Portofino, Da Nicola Ristorante Pizzeria offers a delightful dining experience right in Piazza Martiri dell’Olivetta. This charming establishment serves up excellent pizza and Italian specialties, providing a welcome respite from the typically high prices found elsewhere in this beautiful coastal destination.

When you visit Da Nicola, you’ll find a menu featuring authentic Ligurian cuisine in a friendly atmosphere where the service is warm and the beer is cold. Connected to Hotel Nazionale, this restaurant provides both lunch and dinner options for travelers seeking quality Italian food without breaking the bank. It’s a place where value meets tradition, making it worth considering during your Portofino adventure.

Italian Riviera 2025 Deals!
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in the Italian Riviera! Look for deals here:

Italian Riviera Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs

Ristorante pizzeria da Nicola

Nestled in Portofino’s picturesque Piazza Martiri dell’Olivetta, Ristorante pizzeria da Nicola offers you a chance to dine in one of Italy’s most beautiful coastal settings. The restaurant sits right on the famous square, giving you perfect views of the colorful harbor while you eat.

Da Nicola specializes in pizza, as the name suggests, but you’ll find other Italian classics on the menu too. The location is truly the star here – you’re literally dining in the heart of Portofino, surrounded by the pastel-colored buildings that make this fishing village famous.

When you visit, you might want to consider what you’re looking for in your dining experience. While the setting is undeniably charming, the restaurant caters to the many tourists who flock to Portofino. You’ll be eating in one of the most iconic spots in the Italian Riviera, which many travelers consider worth experiencing despite mixed reviews about the food itself.

If you’re exploring Portofino for the day, Da Nicola’s central location makes it a convenient stop for lunch or dinner. The outdoor seating area lets you soak in the atmosphere of this glamorous harbor town while enjoying classic Italian fare.

Rating: 3.1 (187 reviews)
Location: Piazza Martiri dell’Olivetta, 2, 16034 Portofino GE, Italy
Contact: +39 0185 269575

History of Da Nicola

Da Nicola has been a cornerstone of Portofino’s dining scene for generations. This family-owned establishment has evolved while maintaining its commitment to authentic Italian cuisine.

Origins and Founding

Da Nicola began as a small family business in Portofino’s picturesque Piazza Martiri dell’Olivetta. The restaurant was founded with a simple vision: to serve traditional Italian food that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of the Liguria region.

The location couldn’t be more perfect – situated right in Portofino’s main square, where you can enjoy your meal while watching the comings and goings of this charming fishing village.

What started as a modest pizzeria gradually gained popularity among locals. The founding family’s dedication to quality and authenticity helped Da Nicola build a loyal following.

Culinary Evolution

Over the years, Da Nicola has carefully expanded its menu while staying true to its Italian roots. The restaurant still honors traditional pizza-making techniques that have been passed down through generations.

You’ll find they’ve maintained their commitment to fresh, local ingredients – a hallmark of quality Italian cooking. Their pizza dough is made fresh daily, and toppings feature seasonal produce when possible.

While embracing some modern touches, Da Nicola has preserved classic Ligurian recipes. The restaurant now offers a broader selection of regional specialties alongside their famous pizzas.

Their seafood dishes have become particularly notable, reflecting Portofino’s coastal location and fishing tradition. When you dine here, you’re experiencing decades of culinary refinement.

Signature Dishes and Dining Experience

Da Nicola offers authentic Italian cuisine that captures the essence of Ligurian flavors. The restaurant combines traditional recipes with fresh local ingredients to create memorable dining experiences for visitors to Portofino.

Highlighting Local Ingredients

At Da Nicola, you’ll find a menu that celebrates the bounty of the Ligurian coast. Their trofie al pesto is a standout dish that shouldn’t be missed. This traditional pasta, native to the region, comes perfectly coated in fragrant basil pesto made with local ingredients.

The restaurant takes pride in their freshly cooked fish dishes that cater to even the most demanding palates. You can taste the freshness in every bite!

Pizza lovers won’t be disappointed either. Da Nicola serves original pizza creations alongside classic Italian favorites. Each pizza is made with care using quality ingredients.

For a true taste of Portofino, try their focaccia – a local specialty that Da Nicola prepares to perfection.

Ambiance and Atmosphere

The restaurant’s location in Piazza Martiri dell’Olivetta creates a charming backdrop for your meal. You’ll enjoy friendly service that adds to the welcoming atmosphere, making your dining experience all the more pleasant.

While Portofino is known for its expensive restaurants, Da Nicola offers great value without compromising on quality. This makes it an excellent choice for travelers looking to enjoy authentic Italian cuisine without breaking the bank.

The cold beer served here perfectly complements their pizza and other dishes, especially when dining during warmer months.

You’ll appreciate the balance Da Nicola strikes between casual comfort and the elegant atmosphere that Portofino is known for.