Antica Sciamadda

In the maze of lanes between Porto Antico and the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, Antica Sciamadda keeps to the logic of a sciamadda: step in, order something fresh from the oven and carry on through the old town. Its speciality is farinata, a thin chickpea-flour bake, alongside vegetable pies and other Ligurian preparations. Genoa’s official visitor guide explains that these small shops belong to the city’s popular food tradition; here, the wood-fired oven and counter give the stop the pace of a quick meal rather than a formal restaurant visit.

Visitors often mention hot farinata, savoury pies and fried snacks, as well as friendly service. The experience is simple and the room is small: some people prefer takeaway or eating while standing instead of expecting a spacious table. A local guide estimates €10–€15 for a quick lunch; use that as a planning guide, not as a substitute for checking what is on offer that day. Freshly baked farinata works as a savoury snack or part of a light lunch. If you want to try several items, ask what has just come out of the oven.

The address is Via San Giorgio 14r, a few minutes’ walk from Porto Antico and close to Piazza San Lorenzo. From the Aquarium, follow the lanes through the Molo district; the local guide also points to San Giorgio metro station and the Caricamento stop. It lists split hours from Monday to Saturday and Sunday closure. This is an easy stop to fit between the port and the medieval centre, especially if you are after farinata and informal Ligurian food. The area has narrow streets and traffic restrictions, so walking or public transport is more practical than driving to the door.