L'aranceto - BORDIGHERA

In my separate review for the Villa Elisa, I commented that my husband and I rarely eat in our hotel when traveling, often preferring to explore the given city that we are in. However, after an impromptu lunch at L'Aranceto when we first arrived from the airport, we were absolutely hooked. This should mean something, since I am extremely picky about Italian food; in the states, I rarely eat Italian food unless I am cooking it myself, since it is difficult to find authentic recipes. The seafood was fresh, and their pomodoro with basil sauce could be the best that I've ever had. On other occasions, we sampled their seafood starters, the house risotto dish on the menu, and the local Dolceacqua wine. I felt that the prices were very reasonable. The poolside offerings for lunch were perfect, complete with pressed panini and various pastas. The staff accommodated my Celiac requirements with ease (I did notify in advance). I didn't get sick the entire time I was away, many thanks to L'Aranceto. For dinner, the dining room was elegant but not stuffy, and the waitstaff, especially Daniele, brought us a whole new meaning to service; we felt true Italian hospitality, and were completely taken care of the entire time. I would recommend you eat here even if you are just in Bordighera and not staying at the hotel. Absolutely delicious.

This restaurant is off the lobby of the Villa Elisa. It is available for the public and reservations are recommended. IT is beautifully set, with half the room reaching out into the lush front garden. The service is excellent and the food is very good classic Italian. One of the great features is a buffet of classic Italian appetizers. There are at least 10 dishes, including cheeses, breads, mussels, salads and more. We had local fish (bronzino) cooked in salt. The dish was prepared and presented at the table and was delicious. This hotel is full of old-world charm and the restaurant is no exception, I highly recommend it.