Hits and Misses in Genoa

We had fun trying the local specialties in Genoa. Of course we researched the food and found a couple places we definitely wanted to try. For lunch on our first day we went to a little place not far from the wharf. It got great ratings and was absolutely packed. Kuah had the Mandilli al Pesto and Frittura Mista del Golfo. I had the Filleto di Ricciola alla Genovese. On our trip to Italy we learned that there are many types of pestos but it’s the one in Genoa that has become famous world wide. Kuah was excited to try some of the pesto and also seafood since we were on the coast. I chose a healthy option knowing I was planning on pesto the next day.

Overall the meal was very lackluster. Nothing was bad but we really couldn’t understand how this place had such good ratings. We decided it might be more of a neighborhood place where people love it because of the memories and people that surround it.

For lunch the second day we went to Antica Sa Pesta. The restaurant was very cute with barrel cross vaults and wooden tables and stools. It was a tiny restaurant with a mix of small tables and larger communal tables. Since we arrived early we got our own table. When we walked into the restaurant we passed the wood oven where they cook Farinata, a traditional chickpea bread cooked on large round bronze pans.

We were lucky that they had a dish of mixed breads of the house so we got to try the Farinata and a few others. Kuah and I got that as our starter and loved it. The crispy crust on the Farinata contrasts delightfully with it’s soft center. Then I got the Misestrone alla Genovese. I had been looking forward to trying this soup since we planned to go to Genoa. It looked a bit gross since it has a green tinge from the pesto but tasted delicious. I loved every bite of it. Kuah got a big plate of  mussels. It was ordered by a lot of people but he wasn’t wowed by them. He did really enjoy the mixed breads that we ate at the beginning of the meal.

Although not every dish was a hit we really enjoyed our lunch here. The atmosphere was unique and the service was friendly. I, luckily, really enjoyed the whole meal. Afterwards we were ready to walk around an explore more.

Our final good Italian meal was had on our drive from Genoa to the Rome airport. We stopped at Osteria San Michele about halfway through our drive. It was a cute little restaurant that had gotten great reviews. One of the things I loved about it was that I was able to get a healthy and delicious meal. They had homemade Giardiniera, picked vegetables, that were delicious and refreshing. Then I had a fish and vegetable dish and Kuah had a clam pasta. I really miss the ease of eating out and having healthy selections that Italy provided.

After lunch we got back in the car and headed to our airport hotel. Here we spent one night and then flew back home. It was a wonderful vacation. I loved being able to see several regions of Italy and share some of it with my Mom. Kuah did a great job driving on all the curvy roads.

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