La Terrazza

La Terrazza places the view at the heart of the meal: the terrace of Splendido, A Belmond Hotel, looks down over Portofino harbour, with the Ligurian Sea beyond. This is fine dining above the waterfront rather than beside it, an elevated setting whose appeal lies as much in its relationship with Portofino as in the cooking. Sunset is a particularly fitting moment for a dinner here, especially when the occasion calls for somewhere to linger.

The kitchen’s identity is firmly Ligurian, with seasonal cooking shaped by the region’s traditions. The published lunch selection highlights Santa Margherita Ligure prawns, Chiavari hazelnuts and Portofino saffron: specific local ingredients that give the menu a sense of place beyond the panorama. At dinner, classic Ligurian seafood sits alongside chef Corrado Corti’s signature dishes. The distinction is useful when planning a visit: explore the lunch and dinner menus separately rather than assuming the same offering throughout the day.

The surroundings carry their own history. Splendido began as a Benedictine monastery before Baron Baratta acquired the building in the nineteenth century and transformed it into his family’s summer home. That heritage belongs to the hotel rather than the restaurant alone, but adds context to dining above the harbour. For something sweet, the published dessert selection includes soft pistachio cream, dark chocolate mousse and caramelised peaches; consult the current menu before settling on a favourite.

Make the terrace the focus of the occasion rather than a brief stop between other plans. If sunset matters, check the local sunset time for your date before choosing a reservation. Review current menus and arrange bookings through Belmond’s official website; for July and August, planning well ahead is sensible.