Ristorante Antonio, Santa Margherita Ligure, Italy: A Delightful Coastal Dining Experience

Nestled in the charming coastal town of Santa Margherita Ligure, Ristorante Antonio stands as a beloved culinary gem for locals and visitors alike. This family-run Italian restaurant offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere where you can experience authentic regional cuisine while enjoying impeccable service from the friendly staff.

Ristorante Antonio delights diners with an extensive selection of seafood dishes and fine wines, perfect for savoring the flavors of the Italian Riviera. Located at Piazza San Bernardo 6, the restaurant has earned a reputation for excellence, with many considering it the best dining option in the area. When you visit, don’t hesitate to ask the waiters for their recommendations—their suggestions rarely disappoint.

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Ristorante Antonio

Nestled in the charming Piazza S. Bernardo of Santa Margherita Ligure, Ristorante Antonio offers a delightful seafood dining experience on the Italian Riviera. You’ll find this gem just steps away from the sparkling waters of the Ligurian Sea.

The restaurant specializes in fresh seafood prepared in traditional Italian and Mediterranean styles. Each dish showcases the bounty of the sea with flavors that highlight the coastal region’s culinary heritage.

When you visit, you’ll enjoy the authentic atmosphere that blends classic Italian hospitality with the relaxed ambiance of a seaside town. The restaurant’s location in a picturesque piazza adds to its charm and makes it a perfect spot to experience local cuisine.

The menu features seafood caught daily, ensuring you taste the freshest flavors of the Mediterranean. You can pair your meal with selections from their wine list featuring local and Italian varieties that complement the seafood beautifully.

Rating: 4.5 (502 reviews)
Location: Piazza S. Bernardo, 6, 16038 Santa Margherita Ligure GE, Italy
Contact: +39 0185 289047
Website: Visit Website

History of Ristorante Antonio

Ristorante Antonio has established itself as one of Santa Margherita Ligure’s most beloved culinary institutions, with roots dating back several decades in Italian restaurant tradition.

Founding and Early Days

Ristorante Antonio’s story began in 1934, though not in its current seaside location. The restaurant actually has its origins in Via dei Pastini, where the original trattoria was established. The founding family brought traditional Italian recipes that had been passed down through generations.

In those early days, the restaurant was a modest establishment focusing on simple, authentic dishes that highlighted the fresh seafood from the Ligurian coast. You could find locals gathering there for family meals and celebrations, enjoying pasta, fresh fish, and regional specialties.

The restaurant quickly became known for its warm hospitality and attention to detail. The founding family insisted on sourcing only the freshest ingredients from local markets and fishermen.

Growth and Popularity

Over the decades, Ristorante Antonio grew from a local favorite to a must-visit culinary destination in Santa Margherita Ligure. As word spread about their exceptional cuisine, the restaurant expanded both its menu and physical space to accommodate growing numbers of diners.

Today, Ristorante Antonio ranks #7 out of 142 restaurants in Santa Margherita Ligure according to Tripadvisor, with an impressive 4.4/5 rating from over 1,000 reviews. This popularity isn’t just among tourists—locals continue to frequent the establishment.

You’ll find that the restaurant has maintained its commitment to traditional recipes while carefully introducing innovative touches. Their dedication to quality has remained unchanged, even as they’ve grown to serve more guests.

The staff’s expert knowledge of regional cuisine has become one of their hallmarks, with waiters often suggesting perfect dish and wine pairings for your meal.

Dining Experience at Ristorante Antonio

Ristorante Antonio offers a memorable dining experience that combines excellent food with attentive service in a charming setting. The restaurant specializes in fresh seafood and authentic Ligurian cuisine that captures the essence of the Italian Riviera.

Ambiance and Decor

When you step into Ristorante Antonio, you’ll notice the intimate atmosphere created by the limited number of tables. This thoughtful arrangement ensures a personal dining experience without feeling crowded. The restaurant features both indoor seating and an outdoor terrace.

The outdoor area lets you enjoy the pleasant Mediterranean climate, though it’s worth noting that smoking is permitted at outside tables, as is common in Italy. If you’re sensitive to smoke, you might want to request an indoor table.

The decor embraces coastal Italian charm with simple elegance. Nothing feels overdone or touristy. Instead, the focus stays on creating a welcoming environment where the food takes center stage.

Signature Dishes

The menu at Ristorante Antonio showcases the best of Ligurian and Northern Italian cuisine with an emphasis on seafood. You’ll want to ask your server about daily specials, which often feature the freshest catch.

Must-try dishes include:

Prawns: Perfectly prepared and frequently mentioned in reviews
Snapper Ligurian Style: Served with potatoes, olive oil, and pine nuts
Fresh Pasta Dishes: Standout items that demonstrate Italian culinary expertise

For dessert, don’t miss the ginger pudding that guests rave about. The restaurant also offers excellent wine pairings, with staff happy to recommend local wines that complement your meal perfectly.

Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available, making Ristorante Antonio accessible for diners with various dietary preferences.

Location and Accessibility

Ristorante Antonio is perfectly situated in Piazza San Bernardo 6, right in the heart of Santa Margherita Ligure, Italy. You’ll find this charming restaurant just off the port, giving you beautiful views while you dine.

Getting to the restaurant is quite simple. If you’re staying in Santa Margherita Ligure, it’s within walking distance from most hotels and the main tourist areas. The central piazza location makes it easy to spot.

For those with mobility concerns, the restaurant offers accessible seating options. You can call ahead at 0185 289047 to request specific accommodations or to confirm accessibility details.

Outdoor seating is available, allowing you to enjoy the pleasant Italian weather and take in the atmosphere of the piazza. It’s particularly lovely in the evenings when the area comes alive.

Parking can be found nearby, though like many Italian coastal towns, spaces may be limited during peak tourist season. You might want to consider walking or taking a local taxi if you’re concerned about finding parking.

The restaurant accepts reservations, which is recommended especially during busy summer months when Santa Margherita Ligure welcomes many visitors. Call ahead to secure your spot at this popular dining destination!