Discover the rich culinary world of Genoa, where the flavors of the Italian Riviera thrive. Genoa is best known for its mouthwatering pesto, a vibrant green sauce made from fresh basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and olive oil. This city is not just about one dish, though. The diverse food culture in Genoa offers more, from hearty seafood to delicious pastries.
As you wander through the streets, the aroma of freshly baked focaccia will tempt you. This iconic bread, often flavored with olive oil and salt, originated here, making it a must-try. The coastal location of Genoa brings an abundance of seafood to the table, with dishes like rich zuppa di pesce, a flavorful fish soup, delighting your taste buds.
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in the Italian Riviera! Look for deals here:
Italian Riviera Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs
This culinary journey, set against the backdrop of Genoa’s captivating charm, reveals why the Italian Riviera is a paradise for food lovers. The city’s blend of tradition and creativity serves delicious surprises that invite you to taste and explore more.
Iconic Dishes of Genoa
Genoa, a jewel of the Italian Riviera, is celebrated for its rich culinary traditions. Dive into the world of Genovese cuisine with its famous pesto, flavorful flatbreads, and unique chickpea pancakes.
Pesto alla Genovese
When thinking of Genoese cuisine, your mind should drift to Pesto alla Genovese. This vibrant green sauce is a masterpiece made primarily with fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, Pecorino cheese, and extra virgin olive oil. Traditionally pounded using a mortar and pestle, the sauce captures the essence of Ligurian flavors. It is often served with pasta, such as trofie or trenette, coating each strand in its savory, aromatic goodness. While on the Italian Riviera, taste it with authentic trofie pasta. Capture the pesto’s genuine flavor, a testament to Genoa’s culinary prowess.
Focaccia Genovese
Genoa is equally famous for its Focaccia Genovese. This flatbread is enjoyed for its simplicity and unique texture. Soft on the inside but with a slight crunch on the outside, it is sprinkled with coarse salt and drizzled with olive oil before baking. You might find locals enjoying focaccia as a breakfast item, accompanied by a morning espresso or cappuccino. Variations include focaccia enriched with cheese or onions. As you wander through Genoa’s streets, stop at a local bakery to experience this beloved staple, which perfectly captures the region’s embrace of simple, high-quality ingredients.
Farinata
Farinata is a savory delight made from chickpea flour, water, olive oil, and a touch of salt. This thin, crispy pancake-like dish is baked in a searing hot oven until golden brown. It is a popular snack that you can find in many local eateries throughout Genoa. Traditionally served fresh from the oven, farinata often comes with a sprinkle of pepper. It pairs deliciously with a glass of local wine, embodying the unpretentious yet satisfying flavors of Liguria. Enjoying farinata allows you to savor a dish deeply rooted in Genoa’s history.
Traditional Sweets and Desserts
Genoa, located on the stunning Italian Riviera, offers a variety of traditional sweets that reflect its rich culinary heritage. These delightful treats provide an authentic taste of Genoese flavors and are beloved by locals and visitors alike.
Pandolce Genovese
Pandolce Genovese is a cherished sweet bread often enjoyed during Christmas. This iconic dessert features ingredients like flour, sugar, butter, raisins, and pine nuts, mixed with lemon zest for a subtle, refreshing taste. Its dense texture and sweet flavor make it a must-try. Key to its appeal is the balance of sweetness with a slight tang from the lemon. Traditionally, families would bake this bread during the festive season, creating a warm aroma in homes across Genoa.
Many local bakeries offer their unique versions of Pandolce, allowing you to experience a variety of tastes. Enjoying this bread is a festive ritual in Genoa, providing a comforting link to the city’s past.
Canestrelli
Canestrelli are small, flower-shaped cookies with a delicate, buttery flavor. They are particularly known for their light texture and distinctive flavor, which comes from using high-quality butter and a sprinkle of powdered sugar. These cookies melt in your mouth, offering a simple pleasure.
Popular during holidays and celebrations, Canestrelli are often served with coffee or tea. Their lightness makes them perfect for indulging without feeling too heavy. Despite their simplicity, these cookies are a testament to the skill and tradition of Genoese baking. You can find Canestrelli in sweet shops throughout the city, making them easily accessible during your visit.
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in the Italian Riviera! Look for deals here:
Italian Riviera Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs
Cinque Terre Travel Guide – History, Travel, Hotels, and More!
Genoa Travel Guide – History, Travel, Hotels, and More!
Riviera di Levante Travel Guide – History, Travel, Hotels, and More!
