The Top Restaurants in Portofino, Italy
Portofino has long been a Mediterranean destination for the rich and famous, and for good reason. The charming harbour and stunning vistas are matched only by the wonderful restaurants here that take pride in typical, seafood-heavy Ligurian cuisine. We pick the best places to enjoy a romantic meal in this coastal idyll in Italy.
1. Ristorante Puny
Restaurant, Seafood
This is one of Portofino’s most popular restaurants, close to the harbour with outdoor seating. Try the flaky branzino baked in salt, or the delicious house-made pappardelle. The staff are known for treating each guest as a VIP, and for good reason, celebrity sightings are not uncommon here.
2. Taverna del Marinaio
Restaurant, Italian
This local restaurant has been in business for over 25 years. More affordably priced than the many other restaurants in Portofino, quality at Taverna del Marinaio is not lacking. Travellers and locals alike rave about the antipasti, fresh seafood, and desserts.
3. Trattoria dei Pescatori
Restaurant, Italian
Open since 1910, this restaurant in nearby Santa Margherita takes inspiration from its long history. The restaurant is proud to serve regional fare, including a traditional fish soup and rossetti, boiled young anchovies served with artichoke and mashed potato. The menu changes depending on the season and the restaurant emphasizes the freshness of its fish and other ingredients.
4. La Cucina di Nonna Nina
Restaurant, Italian
In nearby San Rocco, this unassuming restaurant can be found in two rooms of an old villa. Its interior is charming and rustic, and guests think fondly on their home-style meals of rabbit, pasta with pesto, fresh fish, and lemon tart. Snag one of the tables on the terrace outside if you can.
5. Ristorante Da I Gemelli
Restaurant, Seafood
Located in the Portofino harbor, this restaurant is owned by twin brothers, and offers fresh local seafood and Ligurian specialties. Don’t forget to check out the restaurant’s excellent selection of local wines to accompany your meal.
6. Caffè Excelsior
Restaurant, Italian
Located on the Piazzetta, this restaurant is a great choice if you like to people watch while enjoying a leisurely lunch or dinner. The menu offers a selection of antipasti, fresh fish and lamb, pasta, and pizza, along with an extensive wine and cocktail list. Locals swear by the bellinis here.
7. L'Altro Eden
Restaurant, Italian
This restaurant, though not within the bounds of Portofino itself, offers an enticing menu in nearby Santa Margherita. The establishment is recommended for its fish and seafood, and curates elaborate presentations of shrimp, lobster, seabass, and mussels.
8. Ristorante-Pizzeria da Emilio
Restaurant, Italian
Everyone remarks on the wonderful service at this restaurant. Friendly wait staff serve you veal in lemon sauce, variations on pizza, and fresh seafood. Da Emilio is conveniently located in the harbour, with views of the boats that supply the restaurant with fish and crustaceans.
9. Chuflay
Restaurant, Italian
Situated on one side of the lively Piazzetta, Chuflay offers picturesque views, outdoor seating and quality dining. Clientele remark on the restaurant’s wonderful service minded staff and its lack of a ‘seating fee.’ The restaurant offers an interesting wine list, as noted by the Michelin guide, and serves house specialties such as gnocchi with pesto.
10. Da o Batti
Bistro, Italian
Perhaps a more relaxing alternative to the bustle of the harbourside restaurants in Portofino, Da u Batti is located on a quiet side street away from the center of town. Visitors and locals alike delight in the delicious pesto, a sauce traditionally made in Genoa, and fresh fish grilled with lemon and olive oil.
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