A privilege and a responsibility, the Michelin star is the most sought-after recognition for restaurants all over the world.

The stars shining in Liguria are 7, 2 of which are part of the 29 new entries of the 2021 Italy Michelin Guide edition.

Here are the Magnificent 7, all with one Michelin star:

Claudio – Bergeggi
A historic name in the prestigious guide. The first Michelin star, in fact, was awarded in 1990, thanks to Claudio’s skill, now joined by his daughter Lara in the kitchen, as talented as her father in enhancing the quality of ingredients, in particular, fish, which is perfectly prepared and carefully presented. A small gem set in the rocks with a magnificent view of the lovely island of Bergeggi.

Via XXV Aprile 37 – Bergeggi

ph. +39 019 859750

www.hotelclaudiobergeggi.it

Il Vescovado – Noli
Another regular in the Michelin guide, awarded 19 times. To be enjoyed in the fifteenth-century rooms of the Bishop’s Palace in the Bay of Noli or at one of the tables on the lovely terrace, Giuseppe Ricchebuono’s cuisine is very personal, but also based on the use of traditional local products. As a result: genuine flavors, not at all trendy.

Piazzale Rosselli, Lungomare Marconi – Noli

ph. +39 019 749 9059

www.ricchebuonochef.it/ristorante-vescovado.html

Impronta d’Acqua – Cavi di Lavagna (new entry)
A young under-35 chef-owner, Ivan Maniago has distinguished himself from the outset. The restaurant is a minimalist-contemporary style open space, yet warm and welcoming. A very creative cuisine, based on the use of local products and new techniques, ranging from fish – the sea is just behind the hills – to top-quality vegetables and meat supplied by small local farms. 

Via Aurelia, 2121, 16033 Lavagna

ph. +39 375 5291077

www.improntadacqua.com

Nove – Alassio (new entry)
Housed in the relais Villa della Pergola, the restaurant is run by Chef Giorgio Servetto who offers his guests three tasting menus, one of which is entirely vegetarian, and one à la carte menu, in order to take them on a journey through traditional Ligurian and Piedmontese flavors with a modern twist.

Via Privata Montagu, 9 – Alassio

ph. +39 0182 646140

www.noveristorante.it

Paolo e Barbara – Sanremo
The meal opens with excellent local raw fish, followed by Sanremo-style Brandacujun, plin ravioli with artichokes, mountain olive oil, thyme flowers and shrimps and, as second course, roast piglet with quinces and Jewish-style artichokes. Amidst trompe-l’oeil frescoes in pastel tones, as per the local tradition, Paolo Masieri and his wife Barbara offer traditional gourmet cuisine. A journey through light and Mediterranean flavors, based on the skillful and creative use of this land’s best fruits. 

Via Roma, 47 – Sanremo

ph. +39 0184 531653

www.paolobarbara.it

Ristorante Sarri – Imperia
Andrea and Alessandra Sarri’s restaurant is located in Prino di Imperia, a fishing village in pastel tones, on a lovely terrace overlooking the sea. A true temple to taste, where cooking, talent and passion blend together. The sea’s saltiness permeates the restaurant and is reflected in the highly-aromatic fish dishes. The restaurant offers one à la carte menu and one tasting menu called Lasciatemi fare” (Let Me Do It), meaning you leave it to Chef Sarri’s creativity to serve you whatever he deems best to make you feel at ease and enjoy the atmosphere, top-quality food and wine. 

Via Lungomare C. Colombo, 108, Borgo Prino – Imperia

ph. +39 0183 754056

www.ristorantesarri.it

The Cook – Genova
Housed in the beautiful Sala Strozzi of Palazzo Branca Doria, in the heart of downtown Genoa, this restaurant is the only Michelin-starred one in town. The heart and soul of the restaurant is Ivano Ricchebono, considered to be one of the most creative Italian chefs. His cuisine is basically based on the use of seasonal and local ingredients, a combination of Italy’s culinary tradition and modern cooking. There is a choice of two menus, one à la carte menu and the Bernardo Strozzi  tasting menu. 

Vico Falamonica, 9R – Genova

ph. +39 010 975 2674

www.thecookrestaurant.com

One of the Michelin Guide’s 4 special awards goes to Liguria: the Michelin Sommelier 2021 Award by Consorzio del Vino Brunello di Montalcino was given to Matteo Circella of La Brinca  restaurant in Ne, near Genoa.