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MAC Genoa - Bars & Clubs - Downtown
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Bar Berto


An aperitif drink in one of the few melodious squares in the historic centre
Piazza delle Erbe, 6r
Genoa 16123
Italy
+39 10 275 8157
Located in one of the few spacious squares in the historic centre, this bar relies largely on its outside tables, in winter covered by a gazebo, in summer open to the sky. The interior ceramic decor dates from the first half of the twentieth century, and is really worth a look. The bar is open all day, but is especially busy early evening when the pleasant nature of the spot encourages lingering evenings. At midday sandwiches and light meals are served. Evening drinks come with traditional snacks and nibbles. The regular clientele is a very mixed crowd, including students, as well as the manager of the nearby Palazzo Ducale.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Bar Berto photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Bar Lino


Aperitif with fresh chips
Via Caffa, 30r
Genoa 16100
Italy
This bar is open all day long and is a perfect place for an aperitif. The cocktails here are seriously powerful, and are served with chips and other snacks. There is a hospitable, crowded interior as well as outside tables in the piazza. This place could hardly be called exceptional from an architectural point of view, and the furnishings are traditional with mirrors on the walls. Very popular in the evenings and all week long with an after office crowd.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Bar Lino photo by Massimo Strazzeri
Photo: Massimo Strazzeri
 

 
Baretto Gallese


Hot dog specialities
Via San Vincenzo, 41r
Genoa 16100
Italy
+39 10 58 9304
This little place is well known and is always full of people. The main attraction are the sandwiches, especially the hot-dogs which are served in a classic way with pickles or more local additions such as green sauce or marinated anchovies. This is definitely the place to satisfy your appetite, and is popular with students from the nearby school as well as professionals who come here for the salted pork meat. Don't leave without a pocket calendar.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Britannia Pub


British atmosphere in the historic centre
Vico Casana, 76r
Genoa 16123
Italy
+39 10 247 4532
Word has it that Genoa is the most British city in Italy because of the reserved character of the inhabitants, their determined traditionalism, their impeccable elegance and the classic and fastidious house decor. There are some English inspired places in the city, such as the Yacht Club and the, less exclusive, Brittania Pub. There is nothing more distinctly Genoan than the narrow, steep alley that leads to this place and nothing more British than what you find when you arrive; a true, English style pub. There is a wide selection of beer, wood furnishings and chips with eggs or hamburgers. Great for beer fans or home sick Brits.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Britannia Pub photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Cafe' Latino


In the heart of the centre
Piazza delle Erbe, 20 r
Genoa 16123
Italy
+39 10 275 7549
Together with the Bar Berto, this place is the heart of the Piazza delle Erbe. It is open for lunch offering salads and sandwiches, and reopens in the evening at 6pm for aperitifs until 2am. On Friday evenings, the piazza is literally invaded by pedestrians taking a stroll. The bar offers cocktails and beer as well as sandwiches until late at night. There tends to be a young crowd, and this is an excellent place to find out what is happening all over the city. The next door tobacconists is open until late.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Caffè De Marini


In a charming piazza in the historic centre
Piazza De Marini, 8r
Genoa 16123
Italy
+39 10 246 8013
In a little, lively piazza in the historic centre, this place is great for a peaceful outside aperitif. They serve quality cocktails accompanied by great snacks. It is best to come here in summer but the outside tables are still in place in the winter, when it is probably better to sit upstairs. It is also perfect for a quick snack at lunch time, as this is in a convenient place for visitors coming from the Aquarium in the Porto Antico area who want to get away from the crowd and find a distinctive place to eat.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Cantina Embriaci


Wine bar with a history
Salita alla torre Embriaci, 2
Genoa, Genoa 16123
Italy
+39 10 246 3662
This place has been built into the remains of the Embriaci towers which were built in the thirteenth century. The yellow walls make the surroundings bright and warm, although this is actually quite a narrow place. The inside room is not particularly inviting, although there are few tables, which makes it good for a quiet chat with friends. There is a middle aged crowd and it is perfect for fans of good wine. They serve cold food, salads, meat and vegetable flans and there is good background music.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Doge bar


Near the Palazzo Ducale
Piazza Matteotti, 5
Genoa 16100
Italy
This bar looks directly onto the piazza with the Palazzo Ducale. It is a great place to come on market days, (Sundays is antiques), for a rest, while rummaging through the stalls and customers can sit outside and enjoy the view of the fascinating eighteenth century façade of the palace and the belltower of the cathedral. The elegant tables and comfortable chairs, in the recently pedestrianised area, make this a pleasant place for a stop at any time of day. After a drink here, go to the next door Jesus Church and see the work by Rubens which is truly stupendous.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Fitzcarraldo


Club, cabaret and live music
Piazza Cavour, 35r
Genoa 16123
Italy
+39 10 246 1129
The pub is divided into three parts. The main room contains tables and benches. From here you can reach the 'disco' area at the back and then there is a superelevated floor with more tables laid out, but where there are also occasional exhibitions of young artists. The walls are adorned with sculptures made out of mechanical items such as wheels, bolts and gears, all formed into enormous robots and functioning machines that have no function (there is a beautiful englobed structure on one of the benches). Concerts are organised in the disco room but the standing room available for spectators is very limited and the view of performers is non-existent. The cabaret evenings allow a better view of the stage as they are less busy, and tables are available.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Gran Ristoro


The best sandwiches created before your very eyes, right opposite the Porto Antico
Via Sottoripa, 27r
Genoa 16123
Italy
+39 10 247 3127
The shops that can be found under the medieval arches of Sottoripa have a long historic tradition and for the most part, deal in items connected with boating. Among the shop windows is the refreshment area, small but very busy. Wait your turn and in the meantime you will be inspired: you can order a roll with anything you like. Cold meats, spreads, pate, cheese, sauces and still more. Sometimes you will even hold up the queue trying to choose between wild boar spicy salami and a special cured meat with fried mushrooms. Once you have decided on your order, the best sandwich you have ever tasted will be prepared before your very eyes. There are no chairs or tables so the only place to sit and eat is on the steps under the porch. Uncomfortable, but worth it.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Gran Ristoro photo by Mariè
Photo: Mariè
 

 
I Tre Merli


New York atmosphere for the wine bar that has drawn in the crowds from the Big Apple
Porto Antico - Palazzina Millo
Genoa 16123
Italy
+39 10 246 4416
Among the three 'Tre Merli' establishments in Genoa this one is the closest in spirit to the New York establishment of the same name. Its location in the Porto Antico area with its many tourists has meant that the place itself has had to be large, but despite its dimensions, it has managed to retain an elegant, sought-after atmosphere. There is a spacious loft, its yellow walls entirely lined with wine racks, that is characterised by the presence of a wood stove that churns out Genovese specialities such as cheese focaccia that you can enjoy at the marble bar, sipping a wine chosen from the extensive list. Alternatively you might opt for a main meal at lunch or dinner time.

Review © 2007, Wcities
I Tre Merli photo by Marco Micallef
Photo: Marco Micallef
 

 
I tre Merli antica cantina


Old cellar atmosphere
Vico dietro il coro della Maddalena, 26r
Genoa 16123
Italy
+39 10 247 4095
The restructuring of Genoa's old town led to many authentic, beautiful places being sacrificed such as this old and dusty cellar, once one of this quarter's bars, frequented by bohemian artists and intellectuals. The place was taken over by the Tre Merli management who opened their second establishment in Genoa (the first being in Corso Magenta). Renovation works were fortunately limited, conserving the charm of the previous establishment with its paving stones like the alleyways outside, the large room with high ceiling, its atmosphere of a French wine cellar and partially visible kitchen. The name of the place guarantees good quality wines and food.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Il Refettorio


Top, trendy pub in the formerport area
via Lercari, 39
Genoa 16123
Italy
The 'Darsena' quarter, part of the port area is undergoing reconstruction whilst it is converted into a multicultrual and tourist area. The Economics Faculty is based here which led to the opening of this pub designed for students and so it is open all day. The building's architectural originality is based on the contrast between the old stone structures on view and the modern, techno furnishings: glass and metal confer a futuristic aspect on the room whilst blending in with the pub's historic location. Difficult to find, this place is somewhere different if you're hoping to catch a glimpse of the of the old port area in its last few days.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Il pozzo


Lounge atmosphere for aperitifs and after-dinner drinks
Via Ravasco, 9r
Genoa 16123
Italy
+39 10 247 5626
Full of architectural students at lunchtime, the place turns into a cocktail bar in time for aperitifs. But it is after dinner that the atmosphere becomes more friendly — soft lights, warm colors, smoky atmosphere. There are mirrors on the walls, armchairs and sofas. The second hand furniture creates a lounge atmosphere where you can read a magazine or confide in a friend as if you were at home. Aperitif time is quiet, the place gets busier for after-theatre drinks as the Teatro della Tosa is not far away. There are temporary exhibitions for young artists on the yellow walls and popular DJs play background music. Very professional barmen, great sandwiches.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
La Berlocca


Refined wine bar in the old town
Via dei Macelli di Soziglia, 45r
Genoa 16123
Italy
+39 10 247 4162
Originally a restaurant, La Berlocca offers an excellent wine tasting service for those who do not want to try the sweet torture of their cooking. The wine list is one of the best in the city and the chance to try appetising tapas also provides a welcome alternative. The atmosphere is relaxing and the decor simple, yet the great attention paid to the quality of the products makes this place worthy of a visit. The clientele comprises of adults and the prices are quite low.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
La Bottega del conte


Medieval venue, jazz music, good quality beers and wines
Via delle Grazie, 47r
Genoa 16123
Italy
+39 10 246 8356
On the long and lucid marble bar cod would once have been served. Today the fishy odours have been replaced by the sound of jazz and cocktails, beers and appetisers. It has kept its old workshop appearance with marble walls and iron bars on the ceiling from which cured ham would have been hung in the 19th century. It is really a cafe cum museum, as on the lower floors you can visit the medieval cisterns that came to light with the owner's patient excavation works. This is a quiet venue for aperitifs and after dinner drinks, very pleasant and definitely interesting.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
La Taverna di Colombo


Post-cinema wine bar and eatery
Vico della Scienza, 6r
Genoa 16123
Italy
+39 10 246 2447
This place is small and not easy to find, but it is worth the effort. The wood furnishings and informal atmosphere make this a valuable, relaxing place to take refuge and calm your appetite after the cinema, reveling in Faust over the wine list and ensuring you leave with a smile. The hare sauce is excellent and it is great value for money but it is best to book in advance. The restaurant is known for its young clientele and reasonable prices.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Le Cantine Squarciafico


Wine bar in a historic palazzo
Piazza Invrea, 3r
Genoa 16123
Italy
+39 10 247 0823
This wine bar is located in a historic palace, with many medieval arches and elegant, stylish renovations. The walls are red and orange, there are stone columns and commissioned lamps emitting soft lighting; all in all a warm, rustic atmosphere. This is one of the most chic bars in the 'alternative' side of Genoa. If you want a speedy and convenient stop for a snack, it's fairly close to the Piazza del Duomo.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Le Corbousier


Trendy pub at any time of day or night
Via San Donato, 36/38r
Old Town
Genoa, Genoa 16123
Italy
+39 10 246 8652
The pub where every night you can find guest artists, theater actors and other undercover stars enjoying a night out. Strategically placed, near to the Palazzo Ducale, architectural Faculty in the heart of the old town the pub always fills up at around 7pm at the weekends and by 11 getting a drink is a real 'mission impossible'. Artists' exhibitions are displayed on the walls, there are three rooms with tables, two benches and plenty of windows looking out onto the street so you can watch the world go by. Mostly soul and funk, the atmosphere is very smoky. Generous dishes to accompany the drinks. Definitely Genoa's most trendy bar, there's no need for an appointment, just get yourself down there.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Liquid Art Café


Trendy bar with DJ's and loud music
Via Siria, 11
Genoa 16100
Italy
A small bar on two floors in a very traditionally designed area. But from its electric, neon blue sign you can tell that this bar is trying to be different. The closer you get, the faster you hear where the loud music is coming from. Once you are a few meters away you will see how trendy Liquid Bar is: metallic look, cold colors, soft designer stools, sculptures on the walls, aerodynamic bar, DJ set with themed evenings, thumping music. The bar is covered in plates with dishes from which you can choose a snack to accompany your cocktail that will be sipped in silence as you will not be able to make yourself heard, only by sign language.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Mascherona


Underground club in the historic centre
Via Salita Mascherona, 16r
Genoa 16100
Italy
In an area full of bars, in the historic centre, this is one of a variety of clubs where you can go for an after dinner drink, listen to live music, and enjoy improvised jamming sessions by Genovese musicians. They also offer cabaret evenings and are great places to go with friends. In an old building, it looks out onto the Mascherona exit and is slightly hidden away from the main road. Nonetheless, it can be easily reached by the more lively San Bernardo alleyway. Open until late, this is an ideal end to an evening of bar hopping on a Friday or Saturday night.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Matilda Caffè


For a fun packed evening
Via Gabriele d'Annunzio, 19
Genoa 16100
Italy
+39 10 54 1273
This is a restaurant and pizzeria at the beginning of the evening, which then transforms into a disco that is particularly popular on Thursdays and Fridays. Decorated in rustic style, the interior is not what you would expect from such a successful place. The music is commercial and they play 70's and 80's music. This is a fun place where you can dance until late, amongst a crowd of students, classy Genoese and aerobics instructors!

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Nada Mas


In the Porto Antico area
Porto Antico, Magazzini del Cotone
Genoa 16123
Italy
This Spanish style pub is inside the Magazzini del Cotone, in the Porto Antico area. It offers Iberian food and drink, and, although the quality is not especially high, this is the right place to come to if you want a lively evening. Furnished in a 'Hemingway' style, with old photos on the walls, wooden floors, warm colours and kitsch ornaments, this is a lovely place, and the columns of the old Magazzini can be seen from here. On more crowded evenings the tables are pushed back and customers take part in the 'fiesta', with live music and dancing on the tables.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Nessundorma


In the historic centre
Via Porta d'Archi, 74r
Genoa 16100
Italy
+39 10 56 1773
The entrance to this disco is through an office building, and it alternates dance evenings with live concerts and cabaret. It is a large place, but divided up in an odd way, with huge pillars that obstruct views of the shows and the dancers. The bar is far from the dance floor, but there is also table service. The clientèle varies but it tends to be students and die hard fans of this disco.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Nick Masaniello


Late night all week long
Vico della Maddalena
Genoa 16123
Italy
This place doesn't even open until around 11p or midnight! Customers begin to show up around 2a and stay until dawn. What's their secret? It truly feels like you are in someone's home here or even in your own house as you can relax on the sofas, sipping wine, beer or cocktails or eating spaghetti. The way the room is arranged it can feel like you are at a private party and this is a great place to chill out, while listening to an improvised jam session or hibernating in a more peaceful room.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Nikita


A musical snack
Via Fieschi, 148r
Genoa 16100
Italy
Theme evenings are organised here on Fridays and Saturdays as well as Dj sets which provide background music. This is a great place to come after the cinema, as the Corallo is a few metres away, or after the theatre, as the Tosse Theatre is also nearby. It offers cocktails and snacks in a 'cinematic' atmosphere. The walls are literally plastered with photographs and posters of films and actors. This is a great place to discuss the latest releases.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Panarello


Traditional Genovese bar
Via Galata, 67
Genoa 16100
Italy
+39 10 56 1027
Panarello cake is a must for any Genoese child's birthday. It also comes in a mini version for anyone watching their weight. The biscuits, sold by weight, must also be sampled, including the house specialities; 'Lagaccio' and 'Mescolanza'. There is nowhere to sit here and the bar is always crowded, but it is worth trying any of their biscuits or cakes with a cup of tea or a cappucino.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Pintori


Have a quick drink
Via di San Bernardo, 68
Genoa 16123
Italy
+39 10 275 7507
In the heart of the historic centre, near Piazza DeFerrari, this has been the place to get traditional Sardinian food in Genoa for years. Welcoming and family run, it has a great choice of wine, good fish and a great white pasta with ricotta as well as excellent desserts. Almost always packed, it is open for lunch and dinner and is also a good place for a glass of wine and a cake. Average prices.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Quaalude


Live music and Dj's
Piazza Sarzano
Genoa 16123
Italy
This is a historic place in Genoese clubbing history, as it was the first place in the city to offer live music on the underground circuit (at the beginning of the 1980's). Once small and packed, it is now more airy after being renovated and extended. All kinds of Genoese groups playing all kinds of music have performed here, from punk to rock, reggae and ska. Every night is an event, and there is also a DJ set. Open until the small hours, all die hard clubbers end up here sooner or later.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Tartan Pub


Hamburgers and beer
Via Invrea, 13r
Genoa 16100
Italy
+39 10 362 1946
This is a bit of an unusual pub. It could be an Irish pub as all the right beers are here, but the furnishings aren't right. It also serves hamburgers, which are not really Irish, and there is a view of San Patrizio which is very Ligurian. Popular with Genoese who can't tell the difference between Queen and U2.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
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