Love, Laughter, and Ligurian Cuisine
Undoubtedly, you’ve traversed the delectable landscapes of Italy, where love for the cuisine is almost inevitable. But, have you acquainted yourself with the understated allure of La Spezia? Nestled in the enchanting Liguria region, it’s more than a picturesque spot; it’s the very canvas upon which my most vivid culinary memories are painted.
Join me as we dissect the flavors, textures, and narratives that define this exquisite Italian haven. Bon appétit!
L’Oasi Verde
Amidst the flavors of traditional Ligurian cuisine, we began our culinary journey with an antipasto that surpassed the usual portions one might expect for dinner. The perfectly baked bread and the rich flavor of the cheese-filled Ravioli set a promising tone.
Regrettably, their specialty, panigacci (a type of round, unleavened bread cooked in a special testi), tasted like undercooked, watery bread. However, the grilled meat was a redemption. I tried both beef and pork, but the pork, crisply cooked in their special oven, stood out as my favorite.
L’Oasi Verde offers some exclusive dishes that you can only savor in this restaurant, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local vibe. The wine selection, with its excellent quality and reasonable prices, is a definite highlight. I recommend a visit here.
Nako Review: ☆☆☆
Address: Via Dei Mille, 3, 19020 Valdurasca SP, Italy
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/loasiverde/?img_index=1
Viva la Vida
A good choice for Aperol, this place is transforming into a vibrant hub for people in La Spezia, boasting modern decor and excellent cocktails.
Nako Review: ☆☆☆
Address: Piazza Sant’Agostino, 6, 19121 La Spezia SP, Italy
Website: https://vivalavidalaspezia.it/
La Genuina
Loved the green decor, and their pastries were excellent. I tried their chocolate cake, and it struck the perfect balance—not overly sweet, just delicious. Their standout pastry was the croissant with strawberry and cream. However, their coffee lacked strength and fell flat.
Living in London, one comes to appreciate dessert shops that remain open into the evening. We need more places like this ‘BAR’ (Italian cafes) – not just a bar serving alcohol. Agree?
Nako Review: ☆☆☆
Address: Via Fratelli Rosselli, 60-80, 19121 La Spezia SP, Italy
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pasticcerialagenuinalaspezia?fref=ts
Osteria all’Inferno dal 1905
This place exudes an irresistible charm that transcends time. Stepping into its historic embrace, you’re instantly transported to a bygone era, where the walls whisper tales of over a century of traditional Italian hospitality. The rustic décor and intimate setting create a unique ambiance, blending the vintage with the contemporary.
I absolutely loved their Linguine with Mussels. The way they cooked the linguine, and the sauce was incredibly flavorful.
Nako Review: ☆☆☆☆
Address: Via Lorenzo Costa, 3, 19121 La Spezia SP, Italy
Website: https://www.osteriainferno.it/it/home
My La Spezia Love also includes:
Restaurant Venanzio (in Carrara)
The city of Carrara is renowned for its highly prized, top-quality marble. Ascending the mountain to witness the natural marble, I found myself surrounded by more marble than the wealthiest patrons in Dubai who adorn their bathrooms with this high-priced luxury. Eventually, I stumbled upon the smallest piazza of my life, feeling as though I had been transported to the 1600s.
Restaurant Venanzio is undoubtedly worth this journey. They treated me to delectable Tuscan cuisine—an exquisite addition to my gastronomic adventure. Each dish served as a testament to the chef’s dedication to utilizing locally sourced ingredients. From delicate handmade pasta to succulent meat courses, the culinary offerings celebrated the region’s rich gastronomic heritage.
Ensure you indulge in their signature dish—Lardo (the fatty subcutaneous layer of the pig attached to the pork rind, from the back area, which is stored after salting or smoking). It was a mouthwatering experience that is an absolute must-try.
This place is embodying the essence of Bib Gourmand quality.
Nako Review: ☆☆☆☆
Address: Piazza Palestro, 3, 54033 Carrara MS, Italy
Ciccillo a Mare (in Lerici)
I fell in love with Lerici, this beautiful seaside town. With its stunning sea and colorful houses, it is now my dream summer destination for a near future.
Ciccillo a Mare in Lerici is a hidden gem nestled behind the castle, offering a seaside dining experience—a romantic rendezvous with a panoramic view of the Gulf of La Spezia and a menu featuring fresh catches. It’s the perfect spot for savoring the Mediterranean by the sea.
Nako Review: ☆☆☆☆
Address: Calata, Via Giuseppe Mazzini, Snc, 19032 Lerici SP, Italy
Website: https://www.ciccilloamare.it/
Gelateria Artigianale (in Lerici)
Recommend trying their salted pistachio flavor. After your dine experience, take a leisurely stroll along the beautiful seaside while savoring their gelato.
Nako Review: ☆☆☆
Address: 19032 Lerici, SP, Italy
Bar Gambin (in Lerici)
While familiar with Ginseng as tea, I had never tried it in coffee form. It was served in a small shot, similar to an espresso but not overly strong. This marked my inaugural and best encounter with Ginseng. A Sicilian gentleman taught me that placing brown sugar on top of an espresso, letting it linger, signifies the creation of a good coffee. I observed this ritual at this particular bar.
Nako Review: ☆☆☆☆
Address: Via Roma, 28, 19032 Lerici SP, Italy
Pasticceria Gemmi (in Sarzana)
The ambiance was undeniably historical, given that this place is celebrating its centenary this year. However, I didn’t find it particularly special, aside from the aged chairs that were somewhat uncomfortable. It might be more appealing for tourists.
Nako Review: ☆☆
Address: Via Mazzini, 21, 19038 Sarzana SP, Italy
If you ever think of visit La Spezia, it has culinary treasures and you will feel the magic of La Spezia, where every meal is a passionate note in my special holiday memory.
