Genoa's proximity to the Mediterranean Sea — as with the Cinque Terre and Portofino — means that virtually every local restaurant you find will have freshly caught fish and shellfish on the menu. The farther you go inland in this part of Italy, the more you'll find meat dishes as the more standard fare.

The price code for the restaurant entrees below is $ = 100 or more.

Ristorante Pizzeria Punta Vagno

$-$$

Despite its name, this Genoa restaurant actually specializes in fresh fish dishes. You can also find pasta and beef offerings on the menu, along with a handful of pizza options including a sausage pie with gorgonzola cheese. If you want a truly authentic local experience, order the seafood soup.

www.puntavagno.it.

Osteria di Vico Palla

$

For a menu of local cuisine that changes depending on what's available at the local markets, try the Osteria di Vico Palla in Genoa. The menu is presented on a chalkboard, with fish and meat dishes being the primary options. As this is Genoa, you'll usually find a nice pasta dish with pesto sauce, as well.

www.vicopalla.it.

La Terrazza

$$$$

If you're going to splurge on a big-euro dinner in Portofino, then do so at La Terrazza, where the views of the harbor are outstanding. The seafood and pasta dishes are impressive, as is the wine list, and you can enjoy a lingering meal over candlelight just like Frank Sinatra and Elizabeth Taylor used to do back in the day. The restaurant has no website, but you can learn more at:

www.portofino.ws.