Enjoy traditional Ligurian pasta like Mandilli with Genoese pesto
On our last trip to Milan, we took a day trip to Genova. Since we did not have much time there, we looked for reviews before we left. That is how we came to learn about Le Mani In Pasta.
Everybody seemed to be raving about the food, so we made a reservation. If we had not read the online reviews for Le Mani In Pasta, we probably would have walked past the restaurant. Truthfully, I’m not sure we would have even walked down the side street in which it is located.
I had no idea that our meal at Le Mani In Pasta would turn out to be one of the best meals we had on our trip.
THE DECOR IS WARM AND INVITING
Le Mani In Pasta is a small restaurant. There are two rooms with a big open divider, and a little bit of seating at the bar. Visually, the restaurant is so cute. The brick walls, the open glass floor, and the quaint decorations make it so warm and inviting.
It was very evident after just a few minutes that our server at Le Mani In Pasta was the owner. He was friendly, and inviting, and so happy to make recommendations on the different dishes. There were two in particular that we really wanted to try. They were both dishes that are considered regional pasta dishes to order when visiting Genova.
Mandilli with Genoese pesto
This is a traditional Ligurian pasta dish that consists of thin sheets of pasta and is normally served with a sauce made from Genoese pesto. The pasta is cooked until al dente, then tossed with the Genoese pesto sauce, and often has Parmesan cheese or pine nuts added before serving. The pesto It’s made from fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and extra virgin olive oil, all crushed and blended together to form a smooth paste. It’s one of the specialties at Le Mani In Pasta
Pansoti in walnut sauce
Pansoti is a stuffed pasta from the Liguria region of Italy. It’s similar to ravioli but typically has a triangular shape. It is filled with a mixture of greens such as Swiss chard, spinach, and herbs like parsley and marjoram, combined with ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and sometimes breadcrumbs. The walnut sauce is a creamy sauce made from ground walnuts, garlic, olive oil, and sometimes milk or cream. I’d recommend this dish at Le Mani In Pasta.
Both of the pasta dishes at Le Mani In Pasta came with a wine pairing. Both were absolutely delicious. I’d order and recommend both of them.
Le Mani In Pasta is in a convenient location, really close to the old port, the aquarium, and within walking distance of the Duomo.
2 Responses
I want to go here! Looks delicious 🤤
I would highly recommend, and go back again in a heartbeat.