Trattoria dei Pescatori sits right in the heart of Santa Margherita Ligure, a charming coastal town in Italy. This little spot has earned a solid reputation for serving up some of the best seafood in the region. People especially rave about their pesto—no surprise, since this corner of Italy basically invented it.
When you step into Trattoria dei Pescatori, you’ll notice the focus is on the food, not on fancy décor. It’s simple, honest, and somehow that makes the experience even better. A lot of folks end up coming back again and again while they’re in town—always a good sign. You’ll find the place at Via Corso Matteotti 137, and it consistently ranks among the top Italian restaurants around here.
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The kitchen brings in fresh seafood straight from the local waters and uses traditional recipes. You can really taste the difference in dishes like their baked fish—some guests even claim it’s so good it could bring tears to your eyes. Whether you’re just discovering Italian coastal food or you’re a seasoned traveler, this trattoria serves up Ligurian cooking that might just become the highlight of your trip.
Dining Experience at Trattoria dei Pescatori
At Trattoria dei Pescatori, you get a real taste of Ligurian cuisine, with a big emphasis on fresh seafood and local specialties. The place keeps things traditional and relaxed, blending local charm with a laid-back vibe.
Authentic Ligurian Seafood Cuisine
The team at Trattoria dei Pescatori celebrates the seafood traditions of the Ligurian coast. They put fish caught daily from nearby waters front and center, so you always get something fresh. The Mediterranean influence pops up everywhere—think olive oil, herbs, and simple methods that showcase the real flavors.
They stick close to local fishing customs, using recipes that have been handed down through Ligurian families for generations.
Dinner averages about €40 per person, which feels pretty fair given the quality and the location. The menu shifts with the seasons, so you’ll find different specialties depending on what the fishermen bring in.
Signature Dishes: Trofie with Pesto and Seafood Pastas
You really shouldn’t miss the trofie with pesto—it’s a standout. Since pesto was born in this region, Trattoria dei Pescatori’s take on it feels especially authentic. The handmade trofie pasta and that fragrant basil pesto? Just a perfect match.
Their seafood pastas are another highlight, showing off the Mediterranean’s bounty. Popular choices include:
- Linguine with clams and mussels
- Spaghetti with sea urchin
- Ravioli stuffed with fish and herbs
These pastas keep it simple and traditional. The chefs skip heavy sauces, letting the seafood shine.
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Some guests actually come back just for these pasta dishes. They really do capture the spirit of Ligurian cooking.
Fritto Misto and Other Local Specialties
The fritto misto (mixed fried seafood) is a crowd favorite here. It’s a mix of small fish, calamari, and shrimp, all lightly battered and fried until crispy. The seafood stays tender inside, with just the right crunch on the outside.
Other local specialties are definitely worth a try:
- Baked whole fish with potatoes and olives
- Seafood stew with tomatoes and herbs
- Anchovies prepared in a bunch of traditional ways
They also serve vegetable sides made from seasonal produce sourced from nearby farms. These simple sides work well with the seafood mains.
And don’t skip the house wines—usually local, and the staff is happy to suggest what pairs best with your meal.
Location, Atmosphere, and Nearby Attractions
Trattoria dei Pescatori enjoys a fantastic spot in Santa Margherita Ligure, making it a great choice for anyone exploring the Italian Riviera. The setting feels just right for a seafood-focused menu, and you’re close to so many of the area’s favorite places.
Charming Setting in Santa Margherita Ligure
You’ll find the restaurant in the middle of Santa Margherita Ligure, a picturesque coastal town known for its colorful buildings and laid-back feel. It’s less crowded than the big tourist hotspots nearby, so you get a more genuine Italian dining experience. The décor is rustic and simple, which fits perfectly with their focus on traditional seafood.
Inside, there’s a cozy dining room with nautical touches and old photos of local fishing history. It’s not fancy, but it feels warm and inviting. Some tables even give you a peek at the harbor, keeping you close to the sea and the day’s catch.
If the weather’s nice, grab an outdoor table. You can watch the world go by and soak up the lively atmosphere of this Ligurian town.
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Access to Beaches and Coastal Highlights
From Trattoria dei Pescatori, you’re just a quick stroll from Santa Margherita’s main beaches. The town offers both public beaches (free) and private clubs where you can rent a lounger for the day.
You’re also just minutes from the scenic harbor, where fishing boats and luxury yachts share the water. After you eat, it’s easy to wander along the palm-lined promenade and take in the Ligurian Sea views.
There’s plenty to do nearby—swimming, snorkeling, boat rentals, you name it. Several diving centers operate in the area if you’re up for some underwater exploring.
The restaurant sits close to public transportation, so you can keep your adventure going along the coast after your meal.
Exploring Portofino, San Fruttuoso, Rapallo, and Cinque Terre
Trattoria dei Pescatori makes a great base for checking out the area. The glamorous village of Portofino is only 5 kilometers away—you can get there by boat, bus, or a stunning walk along the coast.
San Fruttuoso, with its ancient abbey tucked into a secluded cove, is perfect for a day trip by boat from Santa Margherita. The abbey dates back to the 10th century and sits right on the beach.
Rapallo, with its old castle and long stretch of sand, is just a 10-minute train ride in the opposite direction from Portofino.
And if you’re up for a bigger adventure, the famous Cinque Terre villages are about an hour away by train. These five colorful fishing towns, all linked by hiking trails, offer some of Italy’s most iconic coastal scenery.
Guest Impressions and Tripadvisor Reviews
On Tripadvisor, Trattoria dei Pescatori sits at a 3.4 out of 5, with 450 reviews behind that score. It ranks #68 out of 145 restaurants in Santa Margherita Ligure—so, not exactly a hidden gem, but definitely not at the bottom of the list either.
People seem to rave about the pesto dishes here. One guest even said they “serve the best example of the dish” in the very region where pesto was born. Apparently, it was so good, this person came back for their last dinner in Italy. That says a lot.
The vibe gets a lot of love too. Folks appreciate the authentic, non-touristy feel, and you can tell the place attracts people who want real local food, not some fancy, overdone meal.
But it’s not all glowing feedback. Some travelers fall in love with the traditional seafood, while others just think it’s okay. The reviews go back and forth, so maybe your experience depends on what you order or when you show up.
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Getting to Santa Margherita Ligure
History of Santa Margherita Ligure
Things to Do in Santa Margherita Ligure
