Mercato Orientale Genoa
Genoa's bustling Mercato Orientale, featuring a modern MOG food court with diverse culinary delights and traditional market stalls.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience local life
Mercato Orientale Genoa
Best Time
Experience local life
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Genoa's bustling Mercato Orientale, featuring a modern MOG food court with diverse culinary delights and traditional market stalls.
"A culinary treasure in Genoa's Mercato Orientale, offering an unforgettable Ligurian cuisine experience."
🎯 Sample the Pesto!
Genoa is famous for pesto. Try trofie al pesto at MOG, but be discerning as quality varies!
💰 Budget-Friendly Eats
MOG offers great value. Consider sharing dishes to try more options without breaking the bank.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The MOG Food Court
Central area of Mercato Orientale
A modern culinary hub with diverse food stalls offering everything from fresh pasta to seafood and pizza.
Fresh Produce Stalls
Perimeter of the market
Vibrant displays of local fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and artisanal products. A true taste of Liguria.
Trofie al Pesto
Various food stalls in MOG
Genoa's signature pasta dish. Seek out a well-prepared version for an authentic Ligurian experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Flavors
Navigating the Market Buzz
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Sample the Pesto!
Genoa is famous for pesto. Try trofie al pesto at MOG, but be discerning as quality varies!
💰 Budget-Friendly Eats
MOG offers great value. Consider sharing dishes to try more options without breaking the bank.
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond MOG
Don't miss the outer stalls for fresh produce, local specialties, and unique gifts.
📸 Capture the Colors
The market is incredibly photogenic, from produce displays to bustling food stalls.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Sample the Pesto!
Genoa is famous for pesto. Try trofie al pesto at MOG, but be discerning as quality varies!
💰 Budget-Friendly Eats
MOG offers great value. Consider sharing dishes to try more options without breaking the bank.
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond MOG
Don't miss the outer stalls for fresh produce, local specialties, and unique gifts.
📸 Capture the Colors
The market is incredibly photogenic, from produce displays to bustling food stalls.
⏰ Check Opening Hours
While the market itself has long hours, individual food stalls in MOG may have specific operating times.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mercato Orientale, particularly the MOG food court, is highly praised for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse culinary offerings, with many visitors recommending the fresh seafood and pizzas. While the pesto can be hit-or-miss, the overall experience is considered excellent and worth revisiting. Some find the market's traditional sections less organized than expected.
"Excellent. Wide variety of fresh food outlets for meat, vegetables, fruits, seafood, dairy products, nuts, pasta, cheese,..etc. It also have an incredible dining hall lined up with hip, trendy, and authentic meal kiosks. Worth a try"
BoyPharoh
"My friend told me this market famous food is trofie pesto , I try 2 restaurants, the first one is too salty, (the $21 bill). The other dish is good , I only give 3 stars to this restaurant. I try the second restaurants ($34)order the same trofie, that one I can give 4 stars, no more salty and the trofie itself is smaller. The fires seafood is also great and must try."
北極光
"Very vibrant and beautiful market. We’ve had a lunch there, buying two pizzas. There were so delicious! Highly recommend 👍"
Alena K
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mercato Orientale (MOG) is centrally located in Genoa. You can easily reach it by public transport, with many bus routes stopping nearby. It's also a pleasant walk from the Brignole train station.
Parking in central Genoa can be challenging. It's generally recommended to use public transport or walk to Mercato Orientale to avoid parking hassles.
From the port of Genoa, you can take a short taxi ride or a bus towards the city center. It's a well-connected area.
Yes, Mercato Orientale is relatively close to the Genova Brignole train station, making it convenient for day-trippers.
Absolutely! It's a scenic walk from many parts of Genoa's historic center, allowing you to soak in the city's atmosphere.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Mercato Orientale itself is free. You only pay for the food and products you purchase from the stalls.
The market generally operates from morning until evening, but specific stall hours can vary. The MOG food court typically has consistent hours for lunch and dinner.
There are no entrance fees for the MOG food court. You pay for what you order from the various vendors.
Opening hours can vary, especially on Sundays and public holidays. It's advisable to check the latest information closer to your visit.
Most food stalls in MOG operate on a first-come, first-served basis. You can usually find seating, but it might be busy during peak hours.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Don't miss trying trofie al pesto, fresh seafood, and local Ligurian specialties. The pizzas are also highly recommended.
Pesto quality can vary. While many stalls offer it, some visitors have found it too salty. Look for stalls with good reviews or ask locals for recommendations.
Yes, you can find vegetarian options like pizza and pasta dishes. Vegan choices might be more limited, but look for vegetable-based dishes and salads.
Mercato Orientale features a vibrant food court (MOG) with diverse kiosks offering contemporary and traditional Ligurian cuisine, as well as international flavors. 
Eating at Mercato Orientale can be quite affordable, especially compared to traditional restaurants. Sharing dishes can help manage costs.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant produce displays, the bustling atmosphere of the MOG food court, and the artisanal products. The colors and textures are incredibly photogenic.
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside Mercato Orientale. Be mindful of other visitors and vendors, and always ask permission before taking close-ups of people.
The market has a mix of natural light from the ceiling and artificial lighting from the stalls, creating a dynamic environment for photography.
Weekday mornings offer a more authentic, less crowded experience for capturing the market's daily life. Lunchtime is vibrant but can be challenging due to crowds.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both wide shots and details. A fast prime lens can be useful in lower light conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Visit during off-peak hours to avoid overwhelming crowds. Encourage kids to explore the colorful produce stalls and perhaps try a new fruit or pastry. It's a great place for a casual and affordable family meal.
💰 Budget Travelers
Beyond the food court, the traditional market stalls offer affordable local products, snacks, and ingredients if you're looking to prepare your own meals. It’s an excellent place to experience authentic Genoese flavors without a hefty price tag.
🧑🍳 Food Enthusiasts & Chefs
+1Beyond MOG, the traditional market offers a deep dive into the region's produce. Explore stalls brimming with fresh basil, local cheeses, and seasonal vegetables. It’s an opportunity to connect with the source of Genoa's renowned gastronomy and perhaps even pick up some unique ingredients to take home or use in a cooking class.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Genoa's Gastronomy: MOG
+1When exploring MOG, be prepared for a sensory overload in the best way possible. The aromas of freshly cooked food mingle with the chatter of diners, creating an energetic ambiance. It’s an ideal spot for lunch or a casual dinner, offering a more accessible and diverse dining experience than traditional restaurants. Many visitors rave about the quality and variety, making it a must-visit for any food lover in Genoa.
+1Key takeaway: MOG is the modern, bustling heart of Mercato Orientale, perfect for tasting a wide range of delicious food in a lively setting. It’s a testament to Genoa's evolving culinary scene, blending tradition with innovation.
Beyond the Food Court: Exploring the Traditional Market
+1This part of the market is a photographer's dream, with vibrant displays and the genuine interactions between vendors and customers. It’s a place to discover unique Ligurian products, from specialty olives and cured meats to freshly baked bread and regional wines. Even if you're not planning to buy, the experience of browsing and soaking in the atmosphere is incredibly rewarding. It provides a stark contrast to the modern food court, showcasing the market's dual identity.
Pro-tip: Engage with the vendors! Many are passionate about their products and happy to share insights or offer samples, enriching your market experience.
The Quest for Perfect Pesto
When seeking out the best pesto, look for stalls that emphasize fresh ingredients and have a good reputation. Some travelers recommend trying trofie al pesto, a local pasta shape that pairs perfectly with the sauce. Be prepared to taste and compare, as personal preference plays a big role. Don't be discouraged if your first attempt isn't perfect; the quest for the ideal pesto is part of the culinary adventure in Genoa.
Recommendation: Ask for recommendations from locals or your accommodation host for the most authentic and delicious pesto experience within the market.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit