La Brinca

La Brinca in Ne, Italy, is a Traditional Ligurian Trattoria serving authentic regional cooking. The Circella family has preserved the gastronomic heritage of Val Graveglia. The story begins with Franca Circella, who inherited centuries-old recipes from her mother and grandmothers, a lineage of Ligurian housewives devoted to artisan cooking. Today, her sons Sergio and Roberto continue this legacy alongside head chef Pierangela, while twins Matteo and Simone represent the new generation.

Simone works in the kitchen, ensuring continuity of their family's passion. It occupies the same location as their grandparents' historic tavern-shop-oil mill, giving La Brinca local roots that span generations. The cuisine centers on traditional Ligurian dishes with medieval and peasant origins. Signature offerings include the legendary antipasto di campagna, unchanged for 38 years, featuring fried ravioli with herbs, cuniggiu magro (the local rabbit-based alternative to capon magro), and baccioca, a rustic pie made with valley potatoes and onions.

The menu showcases brandacujun (creamed cod), prebugiun di Ne (potato and black cabbage stew), and tomaxelle, veal rolls filled with minced meat, herbs, and cheese in tomato sauce. Seasonal produce from the valley shapes the menu. The farmhouse setting creates an intimate atmosphere. A terrace and cozy interior frame the dining room.

The wine cellar houses more than 1,000 labels, with natural wines and Ligurian vintages among the selections. The wine program adds depth to the meal. Reservations are essential at La Brinca. The dining experience is slow and thoughtful.