"A decade of building Ligurian cooking around the anchovy; come for the AcciuSpago and a menu that follows the market."
About Trattoria dell’Acciughetta
Trattoria dell'Acciughetta has spent about a decade making its case at Piazza Sant'Elena, in the Castelletto streets above Genoa's old town. The name is a love letter to the anchovy — the small blue fish Ligurians call pan do mâ, “sea bread” — and the whole kitchen is organised around it.
It is a small, characterful trattoria rather than a grand room: a place that changes its card with the market and the catch, and that locals and food writers have taken to for its honesty. The cooking is territorial and unfussy, which is precisely the point.
The Kitchen
The dish to order is the AcciuSpago — spaghetti with salted-anchovy butter, marinated courgette and lemon, the house signature that distils the whole idea into one plate. Beyond it, anchovies appear marinated, fried and cured, and there is proper Ligurian pesto and a rotation of fresh fish.
The menu is short and seasonal, written around what the market offers, so it shifts through the year. Cooking is simple and ingredient-led: this is a kitchen that trusts good fish, good oil and restraint rather than elaboration.
The Room
The trattoria is intimate, with a view out over the Genoese rooftops that gives the meal its sense of place. Tables are close, the mood is informal, and service has the easy warmth of a small family-run room.
It is closed on Mondays and runs lunch and dinner the rest of the week. Reserve, because the dining room is not large and word has spread among Genoa's eaters.
Best for a First Date
The small room, rooftop view and gentle prices make it a good-natured first date or low-key anniversary table. The short market menu and central setting also suit an unhurried business lunch when you want somewhere genuinely local.
Not for
Not for large groups or anyone who dislikes oily fish — the room is small and the menu leans hard on anchovies and the day's catch.
Frequently Asked
What is Trattoria dell'Acciughetta known for?
An anchovy-led Ligurian menu. The signature is the AcciuSpago — spaghetti with salted-anchovy butter, marinated courgette and lemon — alongside pesto, cured and fried anchovies and market fish.
How much does a meal cost?
Around €30–45 per person for a couple of courses with a glass of wine. It is a trattoria, so prices are moderate by Genoa standards.
Where is Trattoria dell'Acciughetta?
At Piazza Sant'Elena in the Castelletto area, in the streets above Genoa's old town, with a view over the city rooftops.
Is it open on Mondays?
No — it is closed on Mondays and open Tuesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner. Booking is advised because the room is small.
Do I need to book?
Yes, reservations are recommended. The dining room is intimate and fills up, especially in the evening and at weekends.
Reserve a Table
Reserve at Trattoria dell’Acciughetta
Reserve by phone; the room is small and books up, especially evenings and weekends.
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Practical Information
AddressPiazza Sant'Elena, Genoa
NeighbourhoodCastelletto, Piazza Sant'Elena
CuisineLigurian Seafood
Price~€30–45 per person
Dress CodeCasual
SeatingSmall dining room with rooftop view
ReservationRecommended (closed Mondays)
