Ristorante Ippogrifo, Genoa, Italy: A Charming Seaside Dining Experience

Tucked away in the Expo Fiera area of Genoa, Ristorante Ippogrifo has been delighting diners since 1982. This elegant establishment offers a refined dining experience with a classic, smart atmosphere that welcomes you after a day of exploring the city’s attractions.

Ippogrifo is widely considered the best restaurant in Genoa, serving sophisticated cuisine prepared with only the finest ingredients. You’ll appreciate the perfect, unobtrusive service that enhances your meal without interrupting your experience. Located at Via Raffaele Gestro 9R, this charming corner of culinary delight is not far from Genoa’s city center, making it an ideal spot for a memorable Italian dining 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

Ippogrifo

Nestled in the charming streets of Genoa, Ippogrifo is a delightful seafood restaurant that captures the essence of Ligurian cuisine. You’ll find this culinary gem on Via Raffaele Gestro, where locals and tourists alike gather to enjoy fresh Mediterranean flavors.

The restaurant specializes in seafood prepared according to traditional Ligurian recipes. You can taste the freshness of the catch in every bite, as Ippogrifo takes pride in sourcing quality ingredients from the nearby Ligurian Sea.

When you visit Ippogrifo, you’ll experience authentic Italian hospitality in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant’s name, which means “hippogriff” in Italian, reflects the magical dining experience they strive to create for their guests.

You might want to make a reservation before your visit, as this popular spot fills up quickly with both locals and food-loving travelers seeking authentic Genoese flavors.

Rating: 4.5 (602 reviews)
Location: Via Raffaele Gestro, 9, 16100 Genova GE, Italy
Contact: +39 010 592764
Website: Visit Website

Ristorante Ippogrifo’s Culinary Experience

Ristorante Ippogrifo offers one of Genoa’s finest dining experiences, combining refined cuisine with impeccable service. The restaurant has been delighting guests since 1982 with its commitment to quality ingredients and traditional flavors.

Unique menu offerings

The menu at Ippogrifo showcases the best of Genoese cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood. You’ll find beautifully presented dishes that honor local traditions while adding creative touches.

The restaurant is known for using only the highest quality ingredients. Fresh fish arrives daily, ensuring you’ll taste the true flavors of the Ligurian Sea with every bite.

The wine list deserves special mention. It’s extensive and meticulously curated, featuring selections that perfectly complement the food. The staff can help you choose the perfect pairing for your meal.

Don’t miss their seasonal specialties, which highlight the best products available throughout the year. Each dish demonstrates the kitchen’s skill and attention to detail.

An ambiance that captures Genoa’s spirit

When you step into Ippogrifo, you enter an elegant space with classic, smart styling. The atmosphere is refined yet comfortable, making it perfect for both special occasions and memorable meals.

Located in the Expo Fiera area, not far from Genoa’s city center, the restaurant offers a convenient yet sophisticated setting. The interior design creates a charming corner of delight in the busy city.

The service at Ippogrifo is described as “unobtrusive and perfect” by those who have dined there. You’ll feel well-cared for without being overwhelmed by staff attention.

The restaurant’s ambiance strikes that ideal balance between formality and warmth. It’s an environment where you can truly appreciate the culinary artistry while feeling completely at ease.

Meet the Chef

At Ristorante Ippogrifo, the culinary excellence you’ll experience comes from the talented hands of Chef Gerardo Leone, whose passion for Ligurian cuisine shines through in every dish.

The chef’s journey and philosophy

Chef Gerardo Leone began his culinary journey in the coastal towns of Liguria, where he developed a deep respect for local ingredients and traditional cooking methods. His philosophy centers on honoring Genoese culinary heritage while adding subtle modern touches.

“I believe the best flavors come from simplicity and respect for ingredients,” Chef Leone often says while preparing his dishes.

You’ll notice his commitment to freshness in every plate that leaves the kitchen. Since Ippogrifo opened in 1982, Leone has built strong relationships with local fishermen and farmers.

His cooking philosophy emphasizes:

Seasonal ingredients from trusted local suppliers
Traditional techniques with contemporary presentation
Balanced flavors that let quality ingredients shine

Signature cooking styles

Chef Leone’s cooking style blends classic Ligurian techniques with innovative approaches. He’s particularly known for his masterful seafood preparations that highlight the bounty of the Ligurian Sea.

His signature dishes include delicate fish preparations with minimal intervention to preserve natural flavors. You’ll find his touch in the restaurant’s renowned seafood risotto and freshly made pasta with local herbs.

The chef takes special pride in his pesto, made the traditional Genovese way with mortar and pestle. This attention to detail creates an authentic taste you won’t find elsewhere.

When dining at Ippogrifo, watch for these Leone specialties: