Ristorante Strainer, Portofino, Italy: A Charming Seaside Dining Experience

Ristorante Strainer sits in one of the most picturesque spots in Portofino, offering diners stunning views of the marina and its boats. This waterfront establishment has become a notable dining option for visitors exploring the beautiful Ligurian coast of Italy. While opinions on the food quality vary, many visitors appreciate the restaurant’s location and atmosphere that allows you to dine almost touching the water.

The menu at Strainer features both seafood and non-seafood options, including pasta dishes like carbonara and the regional specialty pesto, as well as meat dishes such as vitello (veal). Service is generally described as friendly and attentive, though some visitors note that prices run high – a common situation in popular tourist destinations like Portofino.

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Strainer

Strainer is a charming restaurant located in the beautiful coastal town of Portofino, Italy. Situated right on Molo Umberto I, this eatery offers you stunning views of the harbor while you dine. The restaurant’s prime location allows you to watch luxury yachts and fishing boats come and go as you enjoy your meal.

The menu at Strainer features traditional Italian cuisine with an emphasis on fresh seafood. You’ll find local specialties prepared with ingredients sourced from the Ligurian region. Their pasta dishes are particularly popular, often incorporating the catch of the day into delicious, authentic recipes.

The restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere that perfectly complements Portofino’s laid-back charm. You can choose to sit inside in the elegantly decorated dining room or outside on the terrace where you can feel the sea breeze. The service is attentive without being intrusive, allowing you to enjoy your meal at a leisurely pace.

While visiting Strainer, you might want to try their seafood risotto or the fresh fish of the day. Their wine list includes excellent local options that pair wonderfully with their seafood dishes.

Rating: 3.7 (351 reviews)
Location: Molo Umberto I, 19, 16034 Portofino GE, Italy
Contact: +39 0185 269189

Culinary Experience at Ristorante Strainer

Ristorante Strainer offers an exceptional dining experience that combines delicious food with excellent service and a stunning location at Portofino’s harbor.

Ambiance and Setting

As you step into Ristorante Strainer, you’ll be immediately charmed by its spectacular location. The restaurant sits practically at the water’s edge, giving you front-row views of Portofino’s picturesque harbor and colorful boats.

The family-owned atmosphere adds warmth to your dining experience. You’ll feel the personal touch in every aspect of service, from the friendly greetings to attentive table care.

The setting perfectly balances elegance with the relaxed coastal vibe that makes Portofino special. Whether you’re enjoying lunch with the sparkling sea as your backdrop or a romantic dinner as lights twinkle across the harbor, the ambiance enhances every bite.

Signature Dishes

The menu at Strainer showcases both traditional Italian favorites and seafood specialties. Their pasta dishes earn particular praise from visitors, with the truffle tagliolini standing out as a must-try option prepared by the owner-chef himself.

Other standout dishes include:

Carbonara: Perfectly executed classic
Truffle pasta: Rich and aromatic
Lemon chicken: Bright and flavorful
Caprese: Fresh and authentic

You’ll also find excellent pasta pesto, a Ligurian specialty that honors local traditions. The vitello (veal) offers a delicious option if you’re looking for something beyond seafood.

Their wine selection complements the food beautifully, with staff ready to recommend perfect pairings for your meal.

Exploring Portofino, Italy

Portofino offers a picturesque setting that enhances your dining experience at Ristorante Strainer. The charming harbor town provides beautiful views and plenty to see before or after your meal.

Local Attractions Near Ristorante Strainer

Right outside Ristorante Strainer, you’ll find yourself in one of Italy’s most beautiful harbors. The famous Piazzetta of Portofino sits just steps away, where you can watch colorful fishing boats and luxury yachts bob in the crystal-clear water.

Take a short 10-minute walk up to Castello Brown for breathtaking views of the entire bay. This 16th-century fortress offers the perfect backdrop for photos of your visit.

Don’t miss the Church of St. Martin, a yellow-painted landmark that stands out against Portofino’s colorful buildings. For nature lovers, the Portofino Regional Park provides beautiful hiking trails with Mediterranean vegetation and stunning sea views.

Getting Around in Portofino

Portofino is best explored on foot. The town is quite small, and you can walk from one end to the other in about 15 minutes.

If you’re staying in nearby towns, consider taking the ferry from Santa Margherita Ligure or Rapallo. These boat rides offer beautiful coastal views and drop you right at the harbor near Ristorante Strainer.

Taxis are available but expensive. Buses run regularly from Santa Margherita to Portofino, with the stop just a 5-minute walk from the restaurant.

Parking is very limited in Portofino, so public transportation is highly recommended. Once in town, everything is within easy walking distance of Ristorante Strainer.