Nestled along Italy’s stunning Ligurian coast, La Spezia offers a delightful mix of culinary treasures. With its rich flavors and vibrant atmosphere, this charming city provides an array of dining experiences, from cozy trattorias to elegant eateries. Why should you visit La Spezia for food? The answer lies in its unique blend of traditional Italian dishes and fresh seafood.
You’ll find meals inspired by both the sea and the nearby Tuscan countryside, making each dining experience unforgettable. Whether you’re a fan of rustic pasta dishes or crave something more innovative, La Spezia promises a memorable culinary journey.
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La Taverna Del Metallo
If you’re a fan of heavy metal music and delicious Italian food, La Taverna Del Metallo is the place to be. This restaurant in La Spezia, Italy, offers an exciting dining experience with gothic-themed decor and a heavy metal soundtrack.
At La Taverna Del Metallo, you can enjoy a variety of meat dishes and pasta options. The long beer list adds a perfect touch for those who want to unwind with a drink. The atmosphere is both vibrant and welcoming, making it ideal for a fun night out.
Located on Via Cernaia, this unique spot blends good food with great music, creating a memorable visit. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting La Spezia who loves a bit of rock ‘n’ roll with their meal.
Rating: 4.7 (1452 reviews)
Location: Via Cernaia, La Spezia, Italy
Contact: +39 349 863 9139
Website: Visit Website
L’Osteria della Corte
When you visit La Spezia, make sure to include L’Osteria della Corte on your list. This charming restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere with a courtyard that’s perfect for unwinding. You’ll enjoy creative Italian dishes crafted by Chef Silvia. From risottos to pastas, each dish showcases a unique blend of flavors.
The menu features tasting paths like “Liguria e dintorni,” offering a culinary journey through the region. Vegetarians will find delightful options, too. Sommelier Valdo’s wine pairings elevate each course, making it a memorable dining experience.
Each dish at L’Osteria della Corte bursts with flavor and creativity. You might savor roasted cuttlefish with a mushroom crust or the elegant tortelli filled with salted cod. The carefully crafted menu highlights local ingredients and traditional tastes in innovative ways.
Rating: 4.5 (1,190 reviews)
Location: Via Napoli, 86, 19122 La Spezia SP, Italy
Contact: +39 0187 715210
Website: Visit Website
La Nuova Spezia
When you’re in La Spezia, you must try La Nuova Spezia. This restaurant offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere with a maritime theme. You can enjoy a variety of fish and seafood dishes here that are grilled, baked, fried, or paired with pasta. The setting is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a delightful meal in a cozy spot.
La Nuova Spezia prides itself on using fresh fish from local catches. This ensures high-quality meals every time you visit. The chefs bring their great experience to the table, creating imaginative combinations that keep you coming back for more.
Pair your meal with some excellent wines. The restaurant offers choices from local and non-local producers. Each dish experience becomes even more memorable thanks to these fine wines.
Rating: 4.4 (2758 reviews)
Location: Viale Giovanni Amendola, 54, 19121 La Spezia SP, Italy
Contact: +39 0187 24223
Website: Visit Website
Osteria La Carabaccia
If you find yourself wandering the charming streets of La Spezia, make sure to stop by Osteria La Carabaccia. This delightful eatery is nestled right on Via Roma. It attracts both locals and tourists with its authentic Italian vibe. Picture yourself enjoying a delicious meal in a warm, welcoming setting.
The menu features classic Italian dishes with a special focus on seafood. With fresh ingredients and skilled cooking, each dish shines in its simplicity and taste. Dining here feels like a true Italian experience, where every bite takes you on a culinary journey through Italy.
The cozy ambiance adds a touch of charm to your meal. So, whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or a casual meet-up with friends, this restaurant provides the perfect backdrop.
Rating: 4.8 (625 reviews)
Location: Via Roma, 96, 19124 La Spezia SP, Italy
Contact: +39 338 832 5255
Antica Osteria Dei Camalli
If you’re in La Spezia, make sure to visit Antica Osteria Dei Camalli. It’s a fantastic spot to enjoy Ligurian cuisine, which Italy is so famous for. The restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere, making it a perfect place for a relaxed meal with friends or family.
You’ll find the menu packed with traditional Italian dishes. It’s not just the food that makes this place special; the warm and welcoming staff add to the charm. It’s clear they care about making your experience memorable.
Make sure to try some local favorites. Whether you’re a fan of seafood or pasta, this restaurant has you covered. The fresh ingredients and flavorful dishes make every bite a delight.
Rating: 4.6 (654 reviews)
Location: Via Alessandro Manzoni, 45, 19121 La Spezia SP, Italy
Contact: +39 0187 301669
Website: Visit Website
Osteria da Bartali
When you’re in La Spezia, a visit to Osteria da Bartali is a must. Nestled in a cozy spot, this inviting seafood restaurant boasts a warm, homey atmosphere. The charming terrace is perfect for enjoying a meal while soaking up the scenery around you.
The menu at Osteria da Bartali features classic Ligurian-style seafood and spaghetti dishes. Each plate is crafted with care, highlighting the rich flavors of Italy. Whether new to Italian cuisine or a seasoned enthusiast, you’ll find something delightful here.
The restaurant’s welcoming vibe, coupled with its delicious offerings, makes it a favorite among locals and travelers alike. It’s the perfect place for a wonderful dining experience in a relaxed setting.
Rating: 4.6 (1777 reviews)
Location: Via del Toretto, 64/66, 19021 La Spezia SP, Italy
Contact: +39 0187 730889
Website: Visit Website
Crazy Bruschetta
When you visit La Spezia, don’t miss Crazy Bruschetta. This restaurant is a gem located on a charming street. It offers a cozy setting with a flair for creativity in its dishes.
The menu is inspired by classic Italian flavors. Fresh ingredients and attention to detail make each dish a delight. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch or dinner.
The place is well-loved by locals and tourists alike. With such a warm atmosphere and friendly staff, you’ll feel right at home.
Rating: 4.7 (284 reviews)
Location: Via Alessandro Manzoni, La Spezia, Italy
Contact: +39 333 270 8504
Website: Visit Website
Vicolo Intherno
If you’re wandering the charming streets of La Spezia, make sure to stop by Vicolo Intherno. It’s known for its cozy atmosphere and traditional Italian flavors. The menu is packed with delicious seafood and pasta, making it a treat for seafood lovers and pasta fans alike.
The place is warm and inviting, perfect for a leisurely meal. The rustic charm sets the tone for a relaxed dining experience. Enjoy classic, homestyle dishes paired perfectly with a glass of wine.
Whether you’re with family or friends, this restaurant provides an authentic slice of Italian dining. You might find yourself coming back just to try a new dish each time.
Rating: 4.4 (1206 reviews)
Location: Via della Canonica, 20, 19121 La Spezia SP, Italy
Contact: +39 0187 150 9698
Website: Visit Website
Nana Meat & Wine
If you’re exploring La Spezia and love a delicious steak, Nana Meat & Wine is a must-visit. It’s known for its simple yet tasty dishes made from the best local meats. It’s a spot that embraces the passion for grilled meats, offering a warm atmosphere where you can enjoy the richness of Italian flavors.
The story behind Nana Meat & Wine is as impressive as the dishes it serves. The owner, who has a rich history as a butcher, has nurtured a love for cooking over 20 years. This passion is palpable in every dish served, making it a unique dining experience in La Spezia.
Recognized as one of the top Italian meat restaurants, it’s no surprise that Nana Meat & Wine has been awarded the best meat in La Spezia in 2021. It’s a gathering place for both locals and tourists seeking hearty and authentic meat dishes that reflect the true Italian culinary tradition.
Rating: 4.6 (1,512 reviews)
Location: P.za Saint Bon, 6, 19122 La Spezia SP, Italy
Contact: +39 0187 23270
Website: Visit Website
Ristorante Roma
When you find yourself in La Spezia, a visit to Ristorante Roma is a must. It’s a charming spot where you can enjoy authentic Italian cuisine. The restaurant is known for its warm ambiance, featuring traditional dishes and a wonderful selection of wines. It’s an ideal place for both locals and tourists looking for a delightful meal.
The setting of Ristorante Roma is inviting and perfect for any occasion. With a white-tablecloth dining area, you’ll feel special and welcomed no matter the reason for your visit. Whether it’s a casual lunch or a romantic dinner, the atmosphere adds to the pleasant dining experience.
You’ll be greeted with a friendly smile and fantastic service. The staff is attentive and eager to make your visit memorable. They offer helpful suggestions if you want to explore something new from the menu.
Rating: 4.5 (585 reviews)
Location: Via Pietro Paleocapa, La Spezia
Contact: +39 0187 189 0177
Website: Visit Website
Culinary Influence and Traditions
In La Spezia, you’re in for a flavorful experience where Mediterranean and Ligurian influences shape every dish. This city offers a delightful taste of the sea, with dishes celebrating fresh, local ingredients. The unique blend of coastal and inland flavors makes dining here an unforgettable part of your journey.
Mediterranean Flavors
La Spezia’s cuisine is heavily influenced by the Mediterranean. You’ll find dishes featuring olive oil, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs. Pesto is a famous sauce originating from Liguria, and you should definitely try it with pasta. Local olives and capers add a distinct taste, bringing a rich and earthy quality to meals.
Expect to encounter recipes with a focus on simplicity and freshness. Focaccia, a type of flatbread, is often flavored with rosemary and serves as a popular snack or side. Plates beautifully balance spices and vegetables, creating a symphony of flavors that’s both light and satisfying.
Seafood Specialties
Being a coastal city, La Spezia shines with its seafood dishes. Fresh fish, calamari, and shrimp are commonly featured. Spaghetti allo scoglio, a pasta dish with mixed seafood, is a must-try. It’s a perfect way to enjoy the flavors of the sea.
Local markets offer a bounty of mussels, clams, and other shellfish. Many restaurants use the catch of the day, ensuring a fresh and flavorful meal. Lemon, a staple in the area, is often used to enhance and brighten the taste of seafood, adding a tangy kick that pairs beautifully with the natural saltiness.
Dining Etiquette in La Spezia
When dining in La Spezia, you will experience a blend of traditional Italian customs and local cultural nuances. Being aware of these practices enhances your dining experience and allows you to appreciate the meal to its fullest.
Local Dining Customs
In La Spezia, meals are about much more than just food; they are social events. Meals usually consist of several courses, so prepare for a leisurely experience. It’s common to start with an “aperitivo,” which is a small drink like wine or a cocktail.
Conversation and social interaction are essential. Don’t rush; enjoy the atmosphere and engage with those you’re dining with. If you’re invited to a local’s home, bringing a small gift like wine or desserts is a thoughtful gesture. Also, it is courteous to wait for the host to begin the meal before you start eating.
Tipping Practices
Tipping in La Spezia is appreciated but not obligatory as service charges are often included in the bill (referred to as “coperto”). If you receive exceptional service, it is polite to leave a small tip. Typically, rounding up the bill or leaving a little extra change is common.
When dining at more upscale establishments, leaving 5-10% of the total bill is considered generous. In bars or cafes, rounding up to the nearest euro is a common practice. Always have some cash on hand for tipping, as not all places accept tips via credit card.
Check out our articles on best hotels in La Spezia, Italy and best things to do in La Spezia, Italy.
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in La Spezia! Look for deals here:
La Spezia Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs
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