Genoa is The Place for Pesto… Here’s One Restaurant You Won’t Want to Miss

If you are heading to watch Sampdoria or Genoa any time soon, we have a tip on where to eat well, eat local, and without breaking the bank.

Calcio fans will know all about the city’s two clubs – one is the oldest in the country and the other wears probably the most iconic kit in the game. And it is no secret that the Stadio Luigi Ferraris, their shared home, is one of football’s greatest arenas.

But did you know that Genoa is also where pesto was born?

Yes, it’s made up and down the country but the Ligurian capital is its undisputed birthplace and real pesto alla Genovese is made with basil from this region.

If you want to enjoy some of this incredible sauce, then look no further than Il Genovese, on Via Galata, not far from Via XX Settembre. 


Order the delicious, rich green pesto and mop it up with the fresh bread. The pesto can be made with a mortar on request and as well as using the local basil, it contains Parmigiano Reggiano, Fiore Sardo, pine nuts, and 100% Italian oil.

And if you want something else for afters, try the meatballs, followed by the DIY tiramisu. 


The restaurant has been around since 1912 and has had its current look since the 1990s. You can push the boatt out but three courses and a drink should come in at around €30, and while the restaurant does not open until midday, you can phone to book a table from 10am.

True to their craft, Il Genovese have a clearcut definition of their game plan. And it is one they carry out to the letter.

“We like to think we haven’t reinvented anything, but rather reclaimed the flavours of our land that we feel are our own,” they say.

“This doesn’t mean we’re against creativity and small culinary licences, but rather that they should serve to enhance the authenticity of our dishes. Tradition and top-quality ingredients are our specialty.”

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