Hidden Gem: Da Maria, Genova, Italy

[dropcap]A[/dropcap]t first glance, you wouldn’t think much of it. The neon sign points up a dark alley, far enough off the beaten track for most tourists to avoid. But therein lies Da Maria’s charm. In a city of restaurants for tourists, it remains an oasis for Italians. If you don’t speak it, then find someone who does!

When you enter, you can choose to sit anywhere. Seating is at tables that accommodate 10-12, so be prepared to share with strangers. There’s only one menu, written in a barely-decipherable script. Everyone knows each other, and the wine is measured by the jug – a true trattoria.

The food here is easily some of the best Italian in the region. Everything is a local speciality, and we’re in Genova: you can expect pesto made that minute and a menu heavy on seafood (although everything is delicious) and to top all this off, there’s a fixed menu! If you’re ever in Genova, I can’t recommend this place enough. Although you might not think to go there, it’s easily some of the best Italian I’ve ever eaten. Buon Appetito!