Discover San Remo's Authentic Flavors: Local Dishes, Restaurants & Recipes

Introduction

San Remo, located on the scenic Italian Riviera, is not just famous for its beautiful coastline and vibrant culture, but also for its delicious cuisine. The city boasts a rich culinary tradition that is deeply rooted in the local flavors and ingredients of the region. In this guide, we will explore the authentic flavors of San Remo, highlighting the must-try dishes, top restaurants, and even share some traditional recipes for you to recreate at home.

Must-Try Dishes

When visiting San Remo, there are a few local dishes that you simply cannot miss. These iconic delicacies will give you a true taste of the region:

1. Linguine allo Scoglio: This mouthwatering seafood pasta dish is a specialty of San Remo. Made with fresh linguine pasta and a variety of local seafood such as mussels, clams, shrimp, and squid, it is typically cooked in a delicious tomato-based sauce. The combination of flavors from the sea and the Mediterranean ingredients create a truly unforgettable dish.
2. Trofie al Pesto: Pesto originated in the nearby city of Genoa, and San Remo has adopted this flavorful sauce as its own. Trofie, a type of twisted pasta, is the perfect vehicle for the creamy and aromatic pesto sauce made with basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. This simple yet incredibly tasty dish is a staple in local kitchens.
3. Cappon Magro: A true masterpiece of San Remo's cuisine, Cappon Magro, is a seafood and vegetable salad that is as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat. It is composed of layers of fish, shellfish, boiled vegetables, and a variety of sauces. This dish is traditionally served during special occasions and celebrations.
4. Stocafisso alla Sanremese: San Remo's version of stockfish (dried cod) is a hearty and flavorsome dish. The fish is soaked and then cooked with potatoes, tomatoes, olives, capers, and a generous amount of olive oil. The result is a tender and succulent fish dish packed with robust Mediterranean flavors.

Top Restaurants

When it comes to experiencing the best of San Remo's culinary scene, these top restaurants should be on your list:

• Ristorante da Nino: A renowned institution in San Remo, this family-run restaurant is famous for its exceptional seafood dishes and warm hospitality. The menu features a wide selection of traditional Ligurian cuisine, and their Linguine allo Scoglio is a must-try.
• Ristorante il Marin: Located near the harbor, this charming restaurant specializes in fresh seafood and serves up some of the best Trofie al Pesto in town. The cozy atmosphere and attentive staff add to the overall dining experience.
• Ristorante 34 da Lucia: With its elegant decor and excellent service, this restaurant offers a refined dining experience. They have a diverse menu featuring both seafood and meat dishes, but their Cappon Magro is a true standout.
• Ristorante La Clua: Nestled in the hills overlooking San Remo, this restaurant provides breathtaking views alongside its delicious food. Known for its traditional Ligurian dishes, their Stocafisso alla Sanremese is a must-try for lovers of hearty seafood.

Traditional Recipes

If you want to recreate the flavors of San Remo at home, here are a couple of traditional recipes to try:

Linguine allo Scoglio

Ingredients:

• 400g linguine pasta
• 500g mixed seafood (mussels, clams, shrimp, squid, etc.)
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup of tomato passata
• 1/2 cup white wine
• A handful of parsley, chopped
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the linguine pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pan, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Add the mixed seafood and cook until they start to release their juices.
4. Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for a few minutes.
5. Add the tomato passata, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let it simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Add the cooked linguine pasta to the pan and toss until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
7. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Trofie al Pesto

Ingredients:

• 400g trofie pasta
• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 cup pine nuts
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the trofie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a food processor, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
3. Pulse until finely chopped.
4. Gradually add the olive oil while pulsing, until the mixture forms a smooth sauce.
5. Toss the cooked trofie pasta with the pesto sauce until well coated.
6. Serve warm and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Now you have a taste of the authentic flavors of San Remo! Whether you choose to dine at one of the top restaurants in the city or try your hand at cooking these traditional recipes, San Remo's cuisine is sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.