When planning a trip to Santa Margherita Ligure, discovering charming places to eat can enhance your entire experience. This beautiful coastal town offers a rich blend of Italian cuisine with fresh seafood, local dishes, and inviting atmospheres.
In this guide, you’ll find an array of places that capture the essence of this Italian Riviera gem. From lively terraces to cozy trattorias, there’s a dining experience waiting that will complement your journey. Savor the flavors of Italy in one of the region’s most picturesque settings.
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in Santa Margherita Ligure! Look for deals here:
Santa Margherita Ligure Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs
Trattoria da Pezzi
Tucked in the heart of Santa Margherita Ligure, Trattoria da Pezzi has been a beloved spot since 1964. The Pezzi family, with its warm atmosphere, serves up traditional Genovese dishes. Each meal is crafted with passion, reminiscent of family gatherings.
Here, you will find specialties like trenette al pesto with potatoes and green beans. In the colder months, you can enjoy their famous “farinata,” made traditionally in a wood-fired oven. The history of the dish adds a unique touch, making it a must-try for any food lover.
The restaurant is close to the sea, adding to its charm. Its location makes it an ideal spot for a post-beach meal or a cozy dinner in the historic center. Trattoria da Pezzi promises a taste of authentic Ligurian cuisine.
Rating: 4.4 (1,100 reviews)
Location: Via Cavour, 21, 16038 Santa Margherita Ligure GE, Italy
Contact: +39 0185 285303
Website: Visit Website
Capo Nord
Capo Nord is located on the stunning bay between Santa Margherita Ligure and Portofino. You will find this charming restaurant right beneath the historic Abbey of Cervara. The setting is unique, with open-air tables just a few centimeters from the sea, offering a breathtaking view of the coastal landscape.
As you enjoy the gentle sound of waves, you can indulge in dishes crafted by Chef Makoto Moriyama. With a focus on fresh seafood, the menu combines Ligurian and Japanese culinary traditions. Each dish showcases the freshest catch, personally selected from local fishermen in Santa Margherita Ligure.
The team at Capo Nord, including the chef, sommelier, and waitstaff, is dedicated to making your dining experience memorable. Their passion ensures that every meal feels both special and relaxed, creating a welcoming atmosphere. From appetizers to desserts, the quality and choice of ingredients are impeccable.
Many praise the excellent service and attention to detail. The scenic views and well-crafted dishes have left a lasting impression on diners, making Capo Nord a must-visit spot.
Rating: 4.6 (474 reviews)
Location: Capo Nord
Contact: +39 334 898 0620
Website: Visit Website
Trattoria dei Pescatori
When you visit Santa Margherita Ligure, Trattoria dei Pescatori is a dining spot you wouldn’t want to miss. This charming eatery is famed for its delicious seafood, offering authentic Italian dishes that capture the true essence of the region.
The atmosphere is inviting, with a cozy setting that makes you feel at home. The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. Whether it’s a casual lunch or a special dinner, this place suits all occasions.
You’ll find the trattoria nestled in a picturesque part of the town, making it a perfect stop after exploring the local sights. The combination of excellent service, mouth-watering dishes, and its prime location make it a must-visit.
Rating: 4.2 (299 reviews)
Location: Via Tommaso Bottaro, 43, Santa Margherita Ligure GE, Italy
Contact: +39 0185 286747
Ristorante Karalis
When you visit Santa Margherita Ligure, Ristorante Karalis is a must-see spot. Located right in the heart of the town, it offers an inviting atmosphere that draws you in. The unique blend of local and Mediterranean flavors in their dishes is something you’ll want to experience firsthand.
Step inside Ristorante Karalis and you’ll find a warm setting perfect for a casual lunch or a cozy dinner. The attentive staff ensures that each guest feels welcomed and satisfied. You might just find yourself relaxing with a glass of wine while savoring a delectable seafood pasta dish.
The restaurant’s location makes it convenient for both tourists and locals. Whether you’re exploring the charming streets of Santa Margherita or enjoying a day at the nearby beach, Ristorante Karalis offers the ideal spot to unwind and enjoy a meal.
Rating: 4.7 (281 reviews)
Location: Corso Matteotti, 26, Santa Margherita Ligure
Contact: +39 0185 283556
Website: Visit Website
Levante Santa Margherita Ligure
When you visit Santa Margherita Ligure, Levante is a wonderful choice for dining. Situated in a lively area, this restaurant offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. You’ll find a selection of delicious dishes that showcase the flavors of Italy.
The menu at Levante is filled with traditional Italian specialties. Whether you love pasta, seafood, or pizza, there is something to enjoy. The chefs use fresh ingredients, ensuring each meal is bursting with flavor.
You can expect friendly service from the staff at Levante. They pay attention to detail and aim to make your dining experience memorable. Their hospitality adds to the warm and inviting feeling of the restaurant.
Rating: 4.4 (333 reviews)
Location: Piazza Martiri della Libertà, 46, 16038 Santa Margherita Ligure GE, Italy
Contact: +39 0185 040165
Il Patio
Situated in the heart of beautiful Santa Margherita, Il Patio offers a dining experience with a unique and original atmosphere. You can enjoy a diverse menu of both seafood and meat dishes, making it perfect for all tastes. The dishes are reasonably priced, making it accessible for everyone.
Il Patio features a spacious outdoor area, ideal for reveling in a delightful evening. This setting is perfect for a memorable dinner in a special environment. The combination of fine dining and a relaxed setting makes it a must-visit spot when you’re in town.
Experiencing the flavors at Il Patio is a treat you won’t want to miss. It not only delivers great food but also creates an ambiance that enhances your overall dining experience. With its inviting vibe, Il Patio is a noteworthy choice on your restaurant list in Santa Margherita Ligure.
Rating: 4.3 (1100 reviews)
Location: Via Palestro 23, Santa Margherita Ligure, Italy
Contact: +39 0185 288457
Website: Visit Website
Ristorante Da Alfredo
Ristorante Da Alfredo offers the perfect blend of traditional Ligurian and Mediterranean cuisine. Nestled under the ancient castle in Santa Margherita Ligure, it boasts views of the marina. You can savor seafood delights and Mediterranean dishes made with high-quality ingredients.
The restaurant’s spacious hall and covered terrace create a welcoming setting. With a capacity for 150 guests, it’s great for weddings and ceremonies. You’ll enjoy a mix of flavors and aromas that showcase the best of regional cooking.
Alfredo’s is not just about the savory dishes. The in-house pastry service crafts delightful desserts. Their friendly staff ensures you feel at home while enjoying the benefits of professional service.
Rating: 4.3 (913 reviews)
Location: Ristorante Da Alfredo
Contact: +39 0185 288140
Website: Visit Website
Ristorante Antonio
Ristorante Antonio offers a delightful dining experience in the heart of Santa Margherita Ligure. This place is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy authentic Italian cuisine. The restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and traditional pasta dishes, which are prepared with exquisite attention to detail.
You’ll find Ristorante Antonio in a charming piazza, providing a picturesque setting for your meal. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it a lovely spot for both casual dining and special occasions. The service is attentive, ensuring your visit is both enjoyable and memorable.
Having earned praise from many visitors, this restaurant boasts a high rating. Whether you’re stopping by for lunch or dinner, you’ll appreciate the quality of the dishes and the welcoming environment. Don’t miss out on trying their popular dishes, which showcase the best of local flavors.
Rating: 4.5 (497 reviews)
Location: Piazza S. Bernardo, 6, 16038 Santa Margherita Ligure GE, Italy
Contact: +39 0185 289047
Website: Visit Website
Zi’ Ninella Ristorante Gourmet
When you find yourself in Santa Margherita Ligure, make sure to stop by Zi’ Ninella Ristorante Gourmet. This place offers a delightful dining experience with an exquisite menu. The dishes are prepared with fresh local ingredients, highlighting the best of Italian cuisine.
Situated in a charming area, the restaurant provides a warm and inviting atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot for a romantic dinner or a special family gathering. You can expect top-notch service from the friendly and attentive staff who are eager to make your visit memorable.
Don’t miss out on their signature dishes, which have received rave reviews from both locals and tourists. Whether you are craving seafood or vegetarian options, the menu has something for everyone. It’s a culinary treat you won’t forget.
Rating: 4.7 (328 reviews)
Location: Via Anton Maria Maragliano, 15/17, 16038 Santa Margherita Ligure GE, Italy
Contact: +39 349 638 8163
Website: Visit Website
Ristorante Trattoria La Cambusa
Nestled in the heart of Santa Margherita Ligure, La Cambusa offers a delightful culinary experience. The restaurant’s menu showcases traditional Ligurian dishes, focusing on both seafood and land specialties. Enjoy your meal with a stunning view of the harbor, making it perfect for a relaxing meal with family or friends.
La Cambusa provides a picturesque setting for various celebrations. Whether you are planning a wedding, hosting a private party, or organizing a business event, the restaurant can cater to your needs. Their reputation for excellent cuisine and a breathtaking location ensures that every event is memorable.
If you’re looking to enjoy authentic Ligurian cuisine, visiting La Cambusa is a must. The vibrant flavors of the local dishes capture the essence of the region, offering a genuine taste of Liguria.
Rating: 4.2 (865 reviews)
Location: Via Tommaso Bottaro, 2, 16038 Santa Margherita Ligure GE, Italy
Contact: +39 0185 287410
Website: Visit Website
List of all Restaurants in Santa Margherita Ligure
Santa Margherita Ligure Food Scene: A Tasty Journey Through Local Cuisine
Santa Margherita Ligure’s food scene really captures the soul of Ligurian cuisine. With more than 150 restaurants in this Italian Riviera town, you’ll stumble on everything from old-school bakeries to breezy seaside spots. Locals rave about the exceptional focaccia here—thin, crunchy on the outside, soft within, and shining with extra-virgin olive oil. Some bakeries turn out focaccia that honestly rivals Genoa’s.
If you’re mapping out meals, keep the Italian schedule in mind. Lunch usually falls between 12:30 and 2:30 PM, and dinner doesn’t get going until after 7:30 PM, stretching to around 10:30 PM. Most places close in the afternoon, so you’ll want to plan ahead to avoid hungry surprises.
But focaccia’s just the start. This coastal gem serves up the whole range of Ligurian specialties. Think fresh seafood straight from the Mediterranean, and pesto made with basil grown right nearby. Whether you’re after a buzzing hotspot or a tucked-away trattoria, Santa Margherita Ligure delivers authentic flavors that stick with you long after your trip.
Overview of Santa Margherita Ligure’s Food Scene
Santa Margherita Ligure feels like a playground for food lovers, blending fresh seafood, local olive oil, and classic Ligurian recipes. The town’s food really shows off its seaside roots and rich traditions.
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in Santa Margherita Ligure! Look for deals here:
Santa Margherita Ligure Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs
Mediterranean Influences
You can taste the Mediterranean vibe in almost every dish. Chefs load menus with whatever the fishermen brought in that morning, usually keeping things simple to let the natural flavors shine.
Olive oil anchors nearly everything. The local stuff is golden-green and fruity, giving dishes a lift without stealing the spotlight.
The climate here helps citrus trees thrive, so you’ll notice lemons popping up in sauces and desserts. Herbs like basil, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram grow wild on the hills, adding their own magic to whatever’s cooking.
Culinary Traditions
Focaccia rules the bakeries in Santa Margherita Ligure. Two local spots in particular have earned a devoted following—people say their focaccia even outshines Genoa’s.
People in town stick to the Italian meal rhythm: lunch between 12:30 and 2:30, dinner after 7:30. Restaurants usually close for a few hours in the afternoon, so keep that in mind.
Pesto alla Genovese is a big deal here, and chefs make it with real care. Trofie or trenette pasta gets tossed with pesto, sometimes with potatoes and green beans.
For a quick snack, grab some farinata—a savory chickpea pancake that’s perfect for eating on the go.
Local Products
If you love food, Drogheria Seghezzo is a must-visit. This historic shop stocks an impressive range of local and international goodies. It’s not just a grocery store—it’s more like a treasure hunt, with staff who really know their stuff.
Santa Margherita sits right at the edge of Portofino Regional Park, which gives local growers perfect conditions for olives and herbs. The park’s protection creates a climate just right for top-quality ingredients.
Fishermen bring in fresh catch daily. Anchovies, sea bream, and octopus show up in classic recipes passed down through families.
Wines from the nearby hills—especially the white Vermentino—pair beautifully with seafood. The sea breeze adds a little salty, mineral edge you won’t find elsewhere.
Signature Ligurian and Italian Dishes
Eating in Santa Margherita Ligure feels like a deep dive into Liguria’s best flavors. From herb-packed sauces to seafood straight off the boats, these dishes have centuries of tradition behind them.
Pesto Genovese and Regional Sauces
Pesto Genovese is the star here. Chefs blend Genovese basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmigiano-Reggiano, Pecorino, and olive oil into a vibrant green sauce. Locals take pride in their authentic versions, sticking to traditional methods—often pounding everything by hand in a marble mortar.
The pesto here packs a punch, with a perfect balance you’ll notice right away.
Don’t skip the walnut sauce (salsa di noci), a creamy mix of walnuts, milk-soaked bread, marjoram, and garlic. It’s usually served over pansoti, a stuffed pasta unique to the area.
Fresh Seafood Specialties
Seafood steals the show in Santa Margherita. Every day, fishermen bring in branzino (sea bass), orata (sea bream), and anchovies.
Try acciughe marinate—anchovies marinated in lemon and olive oil. It’s so simple, but the freshness is unbeatable.
Fritto misto gives you a little bit of everything: calamari, shrimp, and small fish in a light, crispy batter. The secret? Super-fresh seafood.
If you’re hungry for something heartier, order ciuppin, the Ligurian fish stew. Chefs use whatever comes in that day, and it’s served with crusty bread for soaking up the broth.
Homemade Pasta and Pasta Dishes
Pasta here leans heavily into Ligurian tradition. Trofie—a short, twisted pasta—holds onto pesto like it was made for it.
Pansoti are triangular ravioli stuffed with wild greens, herbs, and ricotta, often dressed with that walnut sauce.
Testaroli, which comes from nearby Lunigiana, is a pancake-like pasta cut into diamonds and usually served with pesto (of course).
Many places make their pasta by hand every day. Sometimes you can peek into the kitchen and see the process—rolling, cutting, shaping—just like it’s always been done.
Classic Italian Dishes
Don’t leave without trying Ligurian focaccia—thinner than elsewhere, brushed with olive oil, and sometimes topped with onions or olives.
Farinata, made with chickpea flour, olive oil, water, and salt, comes out of wood-fired ovens crisp and golden. It’s a perfect snack.
For dessert, order pandolce genovese. This sweet bread, studded with raisins, candied fruit, and pine nuts, goes perfectly with a glass of sciacchetrà, the region’s prized dessert wine.
Some trattorias, like Trattoria da Pezzi, really shine with these classics. They manage to respect tradition while keeping things fresh and interesting.
Exploring Santa Margherita Ligure’s Seafood Culture
Santa Margherita’s connection to the sea runs deep, and seafood lovers will feel right at home. The town’s food culture is tied to the Mediterranean, with some of Liguria’s freshest catches on offer.
Daily Fish Market and Local Fishermen
The daily fish market is the beating heart of the seafood scene. Local fishermen show up early with whatever they’ve caught—red shrimp, sea bass, octopus, and more.
The market opens at 7:00 AM, and if you want the best selection, come early. Many restaurants buy their seafood here, so you know it’s fresh.
Watching fishermen mend their nets along the harbor gives you a peek into real coastal life. Some families have worked these waters for generations, sticking to traditional methods.
Vendors are usually happy to chat about their catch and might even share tips on how to cook it. That personal touch makes the experience even richer.
Best Spots for Seafood Pasta
Seafood pasta here is where Ligurian pasta know-how meets the best from the sea. Many local places really nail these dishes.
Top restaurants for seafood pasta:
- Trattoria del Mare – Their trofie with shrimp and zucchini is a local favorite
- Il Pescatore – Go for the linguine with mussels
- Ristorante Angolo 48 – Known for black squid ink pasta
The secret is always simplicity. Chefs let the ingredients shine, using just olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs.
Try trenette al pesto with potatoes and green beans, sometimes topped with fresh seafood. It’s a classic combo that sums up Ligurian food in one bite.
Tastings and Seafood Events
All year long, Santa Margherita buzzes with seafood events where you can taste a bunch of specialties in one go.
The Seafood Festival in summer is a big deal—local chefs show off their skills with cooking demos and tastings. The promenade fills up with food stalls, and you’ll spot everything from crispy fried calamari to overflowing seafood platters.
Plenty of restaurants serve up seafood tasting menus so you can try a mix of dishes without committing to just one. Usually, you’ll start with something like marinated anchovies, get a pasta course, and finish with a seafood main.
Wine pairing events pop up often, usually highlighting local Vermentino and Pigato wines. These crisp whites, with their mineral notes, somehow just work with fresh fish—maybe it’s the sea air, who knows.
If you’re curious about cooking, local spots offer seafood classes where you’ll actually get your hands dirty. Locals teach you how to clean and cook fish the Ligurian way, which is a little trickier than it looks.
Local Ingredients and Specialty Products
Santa Margherita Ligure bursts with local ingredients and specialty foods that really show off the region’s food traditions. Think fresh focaccia, amazing olive oils, and plenty of chances to taste real Ligurian flavors.
Grocery Shopping in Town
In town, you’ll stumble across some fantastic food shops—small bakeries, especially, seem to pop up everywhere. Locals swear by Pinamonti for focaccia; it’s worth hunting down.
The local markets are packed with seasonal produce—vendors bring in fruits and veggies straight from nearby farms. Shops also sell handmade pasta and local sauces, which honestly make pretty great souvenirs.
If you love fish, hit up the morning markets. Local fishermen bring in the day’s catch, and you can really taste the difference in freshness when you try traditional Ligurian dishes.
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in Santa Margherita Ligure! Look for deals here:
Santa Margherita Ligure Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs
Drogheria Seghezzo’s Select Offerings
Drogheria Seghezzo is a must-visit for food lovers in Santa Margherita Ligure. This shop stocks all sorts of local gems, really shining a light on Liguria’s food scene.
You’ll find shelves loaded with artisanal pastas—trofie is the local go-to, especially with pesto. There are jars of sun-dried tomatoes, marinated anchovies, and other preserved treats everywhere you look.
The wine section focuses on regional bottles, mostly from vineyards just up the road. Staff here actually know their stuff and can help you pick out a bottle to match your food.
What sets Seghezzo apart? They really support small producers. A lot of what’s on the shelves comes from families who’ve been making these foods for generations. That’s not something you see everywhere.
Olive Oil, Focaccia, and Cheeses
Ligurian olive oil deserves its own spotlight. The local stuff is delicate, fruity, and finishes with a little peppery kick. Shops usually let you taste before you buy, which is handy if you’re picky.
Focaccia is everywhere—it’s the bread Liguria is famous for. In Santa Margherita, you’ll see it topped with onions, herbs, or even cherry tomatoes. People grab it as a snack or a light meal, any time of day.
Local cheeses include Prescinsêua, a fresh cheese that’s kind of like ricotta but tangier. It goes into pasta dishes or sometimes shows up with honey for dessert.
And don’t skip the pesto. The basil here has smaller leaves and a punchier flavor than what you’ll find elsewhere. It’s a whole different experience.
Experiences Beyond the Plate
Santa Margherita Ligure isn’t just about eating out—it’s about diving into the local food culture and making memories you’ll actually remember.
Cooking Classes with Cesarina
If you want to cook like a local, check out Cesarina’s home cooking classes. They match you with home cooks who share family recipes and old-school techniques.
You’ll get hands-on with regional dishes—maybe traditional Ligurian pasta or that perfect focaccia (crunchy outside, soft inside). Classes usually run 3-4 hours and kick off with a market trip to pick out ingredients.
At the end, you sit down and eat together, which is honestly half the fun. With just a few people per class, you get stories and tips you’d never hear in a restaurant. Book early if you’re coming in summer; these fill up fast.
Wine Tastings and Local Wines
Wine tastings are everywhere in Santa Margherita, and Liguria’s wines are a little different. Vermentino is the star—a crisp white with a hint of the sea. Pigato and Bianchetta Genovese are also worth a try.
Restaurants often offer wine flights with small bites of local food. If you want to go deeper, you can join guided tastings at enotecas, where hosts talk you through the wines and how they’re made.
Vineyard tours nearby show you the steep hillsides where these grapes grow. It’s wild to see how much work goes into every bottle.
Picturesque Settings and Outdoor Dining
Eating in Santa Margherita is as much about the views as the food. Waterfront restaurants give you front-row seats to colorful boats and the sea.
Lots of places have terraces under lemon trees or pergolas tangled with flowers. Thanks to the mild climate, you can eat outside nearly all year.
If you’re up for it, try one of the hillside restaurants overlooking the bay. The sunsets from up there are something else.
Or just grab some focaccia, cheese, and wine for a picnic at Paraggi Beach or the gardens by Villa Durazzo. The food, the scenery—honestly, it’s hard to beat.
Excursions and Food Influences from Neighboring Destinations
Santa Margherita Ligure’s food scene owes a lot to its neighbors. The Ligurian coast around here is packed with towns, each with their own flavors and food traditions.
Portofino’s Culinary Charm
Portofino is just 5 km away and feels like a movie set. You can get there by boat, bus, or a scenic walk.
Restaurants in Portofino go big on seafood with a Mediterranean twist—think fresh sea bass in olive oil, lobster pasta, or fancy takes on Ligurian classics.
Yeah, it’s pricier than Santa Margherita, but the views and food make it worth the splurge. Terraces overlook the harbor, and sunset is the best time to go. Definitely reserve ahead in summer.
Genoa and Pesto Culture
Genoa, about 35 minutes by train, is pesto’s hometown. You can take a class and learn to make it the old way—with a marble mortar and wooden pestle.
Classic Genoese pesto uses:
- Genovese basil (tiny, super-flavorful leaves)
- Pine nuts
- Garlic
- Parmigiano-Reggiano and Pecorino
- Extra virgin olive oil
Genoa’s also got street food like farinata (chickpea flatbread) and focaccia al formaggio from Recco. The old town is full of tiny trattorias serving the real deal.
Food markets like Mercato Orientale are perfect if you want to grab ingredients to bring back.
Camogli’s Seafood Heritage
Camogli, another fishing village just 5 km west, goes all out for seafood, especially during the Fish Festival in May. Giant frying pans cook up fish for crowds.
Year-round, Camogli does:
- Anchovies marinated in lemon
- Hearty fish stews with whatever’s fresh
- Frisceu (little fried dough balls with seafood)
You can get to Camogli by boat, bus, or a hike through Portofino Park. Waterfront spots here are more affordable than Portofino but still deliver on quality.
If you’ve got a sweet tooth, try “camogliesi al rum”—chocolate treats with a rum kick.
Cinque Terre Flavors
Cinque Terre’s five villages are about an hour by train. Each one adds something different to the region’s food scene.
What stands out:
- Monterosso’s anchovies, preserved in salt or oil
- Local white wines like Cinque Terre DOC and sweet Sciacchetrà
- Seafood cones—paper cones stuffed with fried fish, perfect for snacking while you wander
Vineyards here cling to the cliffs and make mineral-rich wines that go great with seafood. Some offer tastings with killer views.
You can easily do a day trip, hopping between villages on the regional train. Every town has little eateries focusing on fresh, simple, local dishes.
Unique Culinary Experiences by the Ligurian Coast
Santa Margherita Ligure is all about food with a view. Whether you’re after market-fresh seafood or classic pasta, you’ll find it in settings that really show off the coast.
Dining on the Gulf of Tigullio
The Gulf of Tigullio is a stunning backdrop for memorable meals. Many restaurants have terraces right over the water.
Seafood rules the menus—especially Gamberi Viola (purple shrimp). These sweet, tender shrimp usually come simply prepared so you can really taste them.
If you want the real local experience, swing by the Fish Market. You can taste the day’s catch and watch locals haggle for dinner ingredients.
Waterfront restaurants often change their set menus daily, depending on what came in that morning. It means you’re always eating what’s freshest.
Villas and Historic Venues
Villa Durazzo is probably the fanciest place to eat in town. This 17th-century villa hosts special dinners in rooms full of antique furniture and art.
The terraced gardens out back make summer evenings feel extra romantic. Picture yourself eating Ligurian classics surrounded by flowers and sea views.
A few other historic buildings in town have been turned into restaurants that mix old architecture with new cooking. These spots usually stick to traditional recipes that families have handed down.
Some places even offer cooking demos. Local chefs seem happy to share how they make trofie al pesto or perfect focaccia.
Dining After Snorkeling or Sightseeing
After snorkeling, you’ll find beachside spots serving up easy favorites—fried calamari, anchovy focaccia, that sort of thing.
If you’re out sightseeing, the main piazzas have cafés where you can relax and people-watch over a light lunch.
Food tours are a fun way to see the town and eat your way through it. You’ll stop at bakeries, delis, and shops to try things like Genoese focaccia.
Definitely try the pesto while you’re here. Ligurian versions are fresher and way more flavorful than the stuff you’ll find back home.
International Flavors and Modern Options
Santa Margherita Ligure isn’t stuck in the past—there’s a surprising mix of international food for when you want a break from tradition. It’s nice to have options, especially if you’re here for more than a few days.
Japanese Cuisine and Contemporary Fusion
You’ll spot a handful of Japanese-inspired restaurants in town, mixing Eastern flavors with Mediterranean ingredients for some pretty creative fusion dishes.
Most places focus on super-fresh seafood—sushi, sashimi, plus hot dishes like tempura and teriyaki. Makes sense, given how close you are to the sea.
A few upscale hotels have fusion restaurants where chefs play around with Ligurian and Japanese styles. These spots usually open for dinner around 7:30 PM, in line with Italian dining habits.
If you’re hoping to try one, book ahead—especially in summer, when tourists and locals both flock to these trendy places.
French and Mediterranean Influences
French culinary traditions have definitely found a home in Santa Margherita Ligure’s food scene, mixing smoothly with the local Mediterranean vibe. You’ll spot several bistro-style restaurants serving up classic French dishes, but with a bit of an Italian twist.
Some places put their own spin on bouillabaisse, using fresh local seafood. Others cook up coq au vin or tempt you with delicate pastries that really show off French technique. Usually, these spots have cozy outdoor tables—great for people-watching, if that’s your thing.
Mediterranean flavors here don’t just stick to Italy. Chefs love to work in Spanish, Greek, and even North African touches. They lean into the shared love of olive oil, fresh veggies, and seafood—kind of a common thread tying these countries together.
When you look at the wine lists, you’ll notice a pretty wide range. There’s usually something from France, plenty from around the Mediterranean, and of course, some local Ligurian bottles for good measure.
Pizza and Quick Bites
Craving something fast while you’re dashing between sights? Santa Margherita Ligure really comes through with a bunch of casual pizza joints and quick eats.
Top Pizza Spots:
- Check out the pizzerias near the waterfront for wood-fired classics
- Drop by family-run places that whip up regional twists
- Try a modern spot if you want creative toppings or gluten-free options
It’s not all about pizza, though. You’ll stumble across panini shops, focaccerias, and cozy cafés—just right for a light lunch or snack. Drogheria Seghezzo deserves a mention; it’s this charming gourmet market where you can grab ready-made bites or put together your own picnic from local and international treats.
Most quick-service spots keep their doors open all day, unlike the sit-down restaurants that close up in the afternoon. That means you can grab something tasty whenever hunger hits, even outside the usual Italian meal hours.
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in Santa Margherita Ligure! Look for deals here:
Santa Margherita Ligure Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs
Getting to Santa Margherita Ligure
History of Santa Margherita Ligure
Things to Do in Santa Margherita Ligure
