Ristorante Puny — Restaurant in Portofino

Came with high hopes, since I always use Lonely Planet advices and in the end it just destroyed my experience for Portofino.

In Lonely Planet it says (medium price - €€) 'harboourside location is the one you've come for and the owners treat everyone like they're a visiting celeb' and since I love seafood wanted to have something, but apparantly menu prices are totally different what we have on their website. And I could not leave because I was asked whether I want a water (which i said yes) before they give a menu to me. Since I saw prices are super high (it's even not medium), I decided to go for a spaghetti, which in general has not to be that expensive but of course it's harbour area it's 18 euro (in the website it says 15). Since I was not interested in any started my waiter told me that they have daily special, which of course I understand it as any other restaurant and told them would like to try octopus salad with zucchini (it's called antipasto). Can any Italian tell me who pay 28 euro (really am so annoyed) - 28 euro for a starter? If it is not a tourist trap then what it is? They say octopus is expensive in general, well in Genoa I got a huge grilled Octopus for 15 euro. It's not my first day in Italy, so to have a water, Fanta, salad and spaghetti in total they asked me 65 euro? 65 - it's not a joke. For this money I could eat fully in any other restaurant. And for service fee they charge 6 euro, which is everywhere maximum 2.5. What pisses me off that their attitude saying oh, if you cannot pay it's ok we will not charge you. It is not about the payment, it is the way how you treat people. It is not OK, it is just not... And the owner says don't pay for salad, but waiter still makes best out of it, we can reduce the price for half. Again in my culture it's super rude and I am super disappointed what I experienced. But I learnt my lesson, no more trusting guidebooks and no more waters before seeing menu!

Thank you for this amazing experience!

P.S. For comparison - the first photo is taken in Genoa - grilled octopus, the second one antipasto - octopus salad. Oh and I totally forgot I checked the prices of antipasto and maximum, maximum restaurants ask 12 euro for antipasti. So I feel...

People complaining about the prices at Puny must think they’re in a beach shack somewhere in rural Italy—not in Portofino, one of the poshest places in the country. This isn’t your local pizzeria in a tiny village—it’s Puny, the iconic spot right on the harbor. Expecting a €10 pasta here is like walking into Chanel and asking for a discount on a handbag. I also assume those people haven’t been to places like St. Tropez, St. Moritz, Ibiza, or Mykonos—where prices are often MUCH higher.

For where you are and what you get, I think it’s more than fair. The food? Classic Ligurian and seriously delicious. The staff? Super sharp and genuinely kind—we had a gluten-intolerant child with us, and they handled it with incredible care and attention. The owner is out-going and entertaining, and then there’s my favorite: Renato! So kind, and impressively fluent in many languages.

I’ve personally seen Madonna, Diane von Fürstenberg and Jeff Bezos here. I have friends who stop with their boats in Portofino only to have lunch at Puny. This place is basically where celebrities and foodies casually enjoy their “Pappardelle Portofino.”

If you want the real Portofino experience—amazing food, top-tier people-watching, and a taste of glam—Puny is the place. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, casual dinner… this isn’t your spot. Simple as that.

PS: If I could only give one advice: a few more healthy and interesting vegetarian options would be wonderful and very much...

Puni Portofino is a remarkable dining destination that truly shines in every aspect. The food is nothing short of excellent, offering a delightful blend of flavors and beautifully presented dishes that highlight the best of local cuisine. Each bite is a testament to the chef's skill and creativity.

The service is equally impressive, with a friendly and attentive staff that goes above and beyond to ensure a memorable experience. They are knowledgeable about the menu and always ready to offer recommendations.

The location is simply perfect, situated in a stunning area that provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Dining here feels like a special occasion, whether you're enjoying a romantic dinner or a meal with friends.

Overall, Puni Portofino is a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in delicious food, exceptional service, and a captivating view. It’s an experience that leaves a...