Following a recipe is easy, but embracing an entire culinary tradition is far more challenging. Riviera Focacceria Italiana does just that, celebrating the rich culinary history of Liguria in northwestern Italy. Instead of simply recreating the region's most famous dishes, the restaurant commits to the smallest details. The signature focaccia di recco begins as two ultra-thin layers of handmade dough stuffed with cheese. Not just any cheese will do, though. Chefs remain so faithful to tradition that they exclusively use Italian stracchino cheese, importing fresh batches each week. Genovese-style pesto sauce benefits from a liberal splash of Ligurian extra-virgin olive oil as well as locally sourced organic sweet basil, pine nuts, and parmigiano cheese.

The ingredient-driven cuisine served without undue flair complements Riviera Focacceria Italiana's simple yet rustic decor. Stout wooden tables and weathered floorboards contribute to the space's humble trattoria vibe. However, the dining room also includes a few modern features. The kitchen's glass walls allow diners to observe the chefs, and video monitors show live footage of the garden where Riviera Focacceria Italiana grows its pastas. The restaurant's market sells artisanal cheeses, olive oils, house-made sauces, and more for guests to take home.