Between Santa Margherita Ligure and Portofino, right on the Paraggi beachfront, a space with maritime vibes welcomes seafood enthusiasts. Langosteria replicates the success of the flagship establishment in the charming bay.
The venue
From the early colors of spring to the sunsets of late summer, the "pieds-dans-l’eau" restaurant, as it's called, welcomes guests at its tables overlook the sea of Portofino, nestled in the uniqueness of Paraggi Bay. If you were already familiar with Langosteria, the brainchild of visionary entrepreneur Enrico Buonocore, known for the four Milanese locations, from the flagship restaurant on Via Savona founded in 2007 to the addresses that have brought this successful concept to Paris and St. Moritz (and soon London), then it's important to know and consider the seaside outpost created in 2017 in one of the most exclusive areas of the boot, maintaining the highest standards in terms of cuisine, hospitality, and setting.
We're between Santa Margherita Ligure and Portofino, right on the Paraggi beach, nestled in the bay of the same name, with the Monte di Portofino Park behind us and the waters of the Marine Protected Area in front, accessible via the only drivable route connecting the two towns. Whether by motorcycle, bicycle, on foot, or by car, you'll arrive at a restaurant where the breathtaking view serves as a splendid aperitif for all.
The environment also engages with the view; in fact, the dining room, like the terrace overlooking the wonderful bay, features a teak floor that evokes maritime atmospheres. "This year, numerous structural investments have been made, leading to the renovation of the terrace, as well as the renewal and expansion of kitchen spaces, including the addition of dishes prepared on live coals using the robata method," says Restaurant Manager Gianluca Penna.
Let's take a seat. Sea lovers will undoubtedly feel at home, dining just a meter from the sand or alternatively, in the adjacent rear "indoor" area, which, however, has no walls and allows the sea breeze to flow. The restaurant is usually quite busy, especially in the peak of summer, but the pacing is well managed, and there's no sense of overcrowding, while remembering that it's a seaside location in a very popular area.
Upon arrival, you can choose from cocktails best suited for you as you browse through the menu. And there's nothing better than a spicy margarita or a glass of carefully selected bubbles from the Langosteria Group's Wine Manager, Valentina Bertini. Notably, the American wine magazine Wine Spectator awarded the restaurants the "Best Of Award Of Excellence 2020 and 2021," recognizing establishments with particularly interesting, extensive, and coherent wine lists that complement the culinary offerings. There's so much Champagne to discover and enjoy (thank goodness), but not just Champagne.
The dishes
Among the preparations by Executive Chef Antonio D’Ambrosio that we've tasted and particularly enjoyed are the flavorful and zesty start with the roasted scampi and yellow cherry tomato gazpacho (welcoming, perfectly balanced in temperature and acidity-sweetness), the tomato soup known as "pappa al pomodoro," a Langosteria signature (highly enjoyable and delightful, best enjoyed with focaccia until the plate is spotless), and the sea bream carpaccio with samphire, lime, and tuna bottarga from Favignana, where impeccable raw material takes the spotlight.
The standout dish, not necessarily by name but due to its taste and gustatory journey, is the "crudaiola" orecchiette with three types of tomatoes, marinated tuna in Spanish sweet Piquillo pepper sauce, green beans, and cacioricotta cheese, plated at the table. To test the kitchen's skill and behavior, a light and delicate deep fried red shrimp, langoustine, and squid has been added to the order, rarely so well-executed. The hazelnut and pistachio ice cream in conclusion wasn't noteworthy, unfortunately, but its pairing was: Barolo Chinato Cappellano, so another applause to Bertini.
Moreover, for those who seek even more enjoyment, the summer continues with the renewal of the partnership with the Belmond Group, managing the historic Bagni Fiore (next door) for the second season, this year partly personalized by Dior. In a nutshell, in just one place guests have access to the hospitality artistry of Splendido and Splendido Mare (Belmond Hotels), the culinary quality of Langosteria, and the refined elegance of Dior. This way, guests can experience a unique and sophisticated journey in Paraggi Bay. Enjoy your time and long live the summer!
Address
Langosteria Paraggi
Via Paraggi a Mare 1, Santa Margherita Ligure (GE)
Tel: +390185046284
Email: langosteria.paraggi@langosteria.com
