Balzi Rossi
Ventimiglia, Italy
⭐1 Star
The Experience
From Michelin Guide
Still in Italy but just a short distance from the French border, this restaurant boasts a spectacular terrace with views of the French coast that extend from Menton’s picturesque historic centre to Cap Martin (in high season, booking one of these much-coveted tables is recommended; the alternative is an attractive and elegant dining room). Despite the external focus on the French Riviera, talented chef Enrico Marmo’s cuisine brings us right back to Liguria. This young chef showcases top-quality regional ingredients such as Pigna beans and San Remo crayfish, and skilfully reinterprets Ligurian recipes with his own creative touch, sometimes offering two or more dishes based on the same theme. Choose from an extensive and creative surprise tasting menu or from a concise à la carte which includes specialities such as the Ravioli della Pina and the Ligurian-style roast rabbit that have featured on the menu since it opened in 1985. Here, the view, cuisine and interesting wine selection (ask enthusiastic sommelier Lorenzo for his recommendations) all come together to offer a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Unique Things
From Visitor Experiences
Spectacular Terrace with Panoramic Views of the French Coast
Balzi Rossi offers a unique dining experience on a terrace that overlooks the French Riviera, with views stretching from Menton's historic center to Cap Martin. This scenic setting is a major draw, especially in high season when terrace tables are highly sought after.Creative Reinterpretation of Ligurian Cuisine with Thematic Dish Variations
Chef Enrico Marmo focuses on regional Ligurian ingredients and recipes but adds a creative twist by sometimes presenting two or more dishes based on the same theme. This approach provides diners with a nuanced exploration of local flavors in innovative formats.Long-standing Signature Dishes Since 1985
Despite its creative cuisine, Balzi Rossi maintains traditional Ligurian specialties like Ravioli della Pina and Ligurian-style roast rabbit on its menu, offering a blend of heritage and innovation that has been consistent since the restaurant opened.
Ingredient Stars
From Visitor Experiences
The most honored or signature ingredients at the Michelin-starred restaurant Balzi Rossi in Ventimiglia are:
Chickpeas: Used in the vegetarian reinterpretation of the classic Piedmontese plin pasta, chickpeas are cooked like a pot roast with aromatic vegetables and herbs, forming the filling that evokes traditional flavors without meat.
White truffle from Alba: This prized truffle is used as a finishing touch on dishes like the Chickpea Plin, adding luxury and an earthy aroma that highlights the region’s culinary heritage.
Liguria regional ingredients such as Pigna beans and San Remo crayfish: These local specialties are showcased in various creative dishes, emphasizing the restaurant’s focus on top-quality, sustainable, and regional produce.
Sun-dried tomatoes and Ligurian tomatoes: Featured in dishes like the Ligurian Tomatoes Tartare with Bottarga and in a tomato water serum used in a Bloody Mary-inspired dish, these ingredients underline the freshness and vibrant flavors of the Ligurian coast.
Local herbs (sage, rosemary, thyme, Vessalico garlic): These herbs are integral to the flavor profiles of signature dishes, such as the chickpea plin filling and finishing glazes, reflecting the aromatic landscape of the region.
These ingredients are significant because they connect the cuisine to the local Ligurian and Piedmontese traditions while allowing Chef Enrico Marmo to reinterpret classic dishes with creativity and sustainability in mind.
Menu & Pricing
Current Offerings & Prices
Tasting Menu
- Menù Degustazione (8 portate): €180
A La Carte
- Fagioli di Pigna: €25
- Ravioli della Pina: €30
- Coniglio arrosto alla ligure: €35