Savona at the Table: 5 Authentic Flavors Not to Miss

Savona cuisine: simplicity and seafood

The cuisine of Savona and the western Ligurian hinterland tells an ancient story of farmers and fishermen, of humble ingredients transformed into dishes that have conquered palates far beyond the region's borders. Olive oil, aromatic herbs, oily fish, and chickpea flour are the silent protagonists of a tradition worth discovering—not just looking at, but tasting.

Here are five flavors you can't miss during a visit to Savona.

1. Farinata, the chickpea gold of Savona

What it is and why it's special

Farinata is a thin, golden cake made with chickpea flour, water, oil, and salt, baked in a wood-fired oven in large copper pans. In Savona, it's known for its texture: thinner and crispier than other Ligurian variations, with a distinctive, slightly smoky flavor.

Where to taste it

The historic farinatterie in the center are the ideal place: you can eat standing up, hot, perhaps accompanied by a glass of local white wine. It's Savona's quintessential street food, simple and irresistible.

2. Noli anchovies, a salted delicacy

Just outside Savona, the village of Noli maintains a centuries-old artisanal fishing tradition: anchovies, caught using the traditional "lampare" system and still processed by hand, salted or in sauce. Their intense yet balanced flavor makes them perfect on a simple slice of bread or as a pasta sauce.

3. Pigato, the local white wine

A native Ligurian grape variety

Pigato is one of the most iconic white wines of Western Liguria, grown on terraced hills overlooking the sea. The result is a fresh, savory wine with mineral notes that evoke its proximity to the sea.

Recommended pairings

It goes perfectly with fish, farinata and anchovy-based dishes: a true travel companion for those who want to discover Savona cuisine in an authentic way.

4. The Chinotto of Savona, a citrus fruit to be rediscovered

Chinotto is a small, bitter citrus fruit, historically grown along the Savona Riviera, now undergoing a major gastronomic revival. Used for candied fruit, liqueurs, and beverages, the Savonese chinotto has a unique, sweet and sour, slightly bitter flavor, making it a local icon—and an excellent gastronomic souvenir to take home.

5. Focaccia, simple but inimitable

You can't leave Savona without tasting the local version of Genoese-Ligurian focaccia: thick, soft, generously smeared with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkled with coarse salt. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or an aperitif, it's a perfect accompaniment to any moment of the day in Savona.

Where to experience gastronomy in Savona

For an authentic experience, it's worth visiting the town market in the historic center, where local producers sell their products directly, or attending one of the seasonal festivals held in the inland villages, perfect opportunities to sample traditional dishes prepared according to family recipes.

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