Panino d'amare In La spezia

08/10/2025: The pasta was mediocre, rather plain, and the pizza was small for its price with too much sauce on it. The prices are significantly above average.

05/10/2025: If we had only visited on our first night, this would be an easy 5-star review. We didn’t try the food, but the drinks were solid, the view over Riomaggiore is unbeatable, and the atmosphere was warm and welcoming — thanks entirely to Carmen. She was kind, fun, and made everyone feel like family. We loved it so much we returned the next night, but unfortunately had the opposite experience. Carmen wasn’t there, and instead an older man with salt-and-pepper hair was behind the bar. We politely asked if an empty table inside was available (it was around 9pm and their posted closing time is 11pm). Without even a greeting, he snapped, “No! We are closed.” This was confusing since several people were still seated both inside and outside with drinks and food — and there were open tables outside as well. As we walked away, we watched him offer that exact inside table to another couple. We would have gladly sat outside again if he had simply said the inside was spoken for. Instead, the unnecessarily rude response left us feeling unwelcome. Bottom line: If Carmen is working, you’re in for a great night. If the older gentleman is there, manage expectations — the vibe is completely different.