Despite my love of Camogli, the best meal that I had was just a single course from DaV Mare in Portofino. This unassuming terrace of the Belmond Splendido Marina hotel made for the nicest lunch tucked away from throngs of cruise ship tourists. Service was friendly and the food was absolutely phenomenal. The website describes the resto something like “Nonna’s recipes cooked by a Michelin-starred chef.” Sign.me.up. I wish we’d had time and stomach space to try more dishes! Even if you can secure a reservation at the other Belmond at the top of the hill, make sure to save some calories for this gorgeous meal.

We started with glasses of Ruinart blanc de blanc- watch out, they’re no bargain like those of Grand Hotel Miramare– they’ll sneak up on you at 41 EUR. (Sorry, Mum!) I was also really into the accompanying menu artwork.

The amuse buche was a darling little Parmesan cream puff- just as at Miramare. This one was much lighter and tastier. I could have used a dozen more!

The bread basket was a huge win and placated my need to try focaccia on the Ligurian coast. This was warm and studded with an oily tomato- absolutely divine.

My main was the incredible ocotpus pasta. Octopus carpaccio and chunks of cooked tentacles are presented to you, leading you to believe that they forgot the pasta…they then spoon this gorgeous mixed up pasta over the octopus leaving you with the most delicious lunch ever.

Mum opted for a pesto risotto dotted with prawns. While I think she enjoyed it as well, my dish was the clear winner.

DaV Mare is my sole reason to return to Portofino…well, unless my fake boyfriend with a yacht can convince me otherwise.