A Story of Sea, Passion, and Family Since 1943
Osteria Maria is much more than a restaurant: it is a piece of Sampierdarena’s history, a deep bond with the sea and with the Genoese culinary tradition. The story begins on October 27th, 1943, in the midst of the war, when grandparents Maria Pastorino and Giovanni Battista Gormani—known to everyone as “Bacicia,” a former coal wagon porter in the port—decided to open a small tavern in Via Pietro Chiesa, in the Coscia district, now San Benigno.
After returning to Italy from France as political exiles for their socialist beliefs, they chose to rebuild their lives in a simple place, yet full of hope. From the very beginning, Osteria Maria became a gathering hub for dockworkers, shipowners, and historic figures. With the development of the new TWC district, the original premises were expropriated, and the family was forced to move to the current location, where tradition not only survived, but grew even stronger.
Today, in its fourth generation, Andrés Uribe Castro carries on this legacy with pride and vision. He first stepped into this historic venue at the age of 18, with no professional kitchen experience but driven by intense passion and the curiosity passed down by his Colombian grandmother. Through dedication and talent, Andrés has transformed the osteria’s humble roots into a restaurant appreciated and recognized throughout Genoa.
Our gastronomic philosophy is rooted in respect: for the sea, for seasonality, and for the absolute freshness of the local catch. We honor the raw ingredients and refuse preserved fish: what we serve must always be a gift from the sea-different each day, always genuine.
Every dish tells the story of a tradition that evolves without losing its essence: stockfish, baccalà, cuttlefish stew, stuffed anchovies, pesto… iconic recipes that speak the language of Liguria, enriched with the chef’s unmistakable personal touch.
The restaurant still preserves the soul of its past: original beams and ship masts recovered from old boats recall the time when the building stood right by the beach. Here, time seems to slow down—between sea and memory. To accompany our cuisine, we offer a small but well-curated wine list, focused on Ligurian and local producers selected for authenticity and quality. And to finish, Andrés prepares artisanal desserts every day: a gesture of love for those at the table, a sweet memory to take with you.
The restaurant still preserves the soul of its past: original beams and ship masts recovered from old boats recall the time when the building stood right by the beach. Here, time seems to slow down—between sea and memory. To accompany our cuisine, we offer a small but well-curated wine list, focused on Ligurian and local producers selected for authenticity and quality. And to finish, Andrés prepares artisanal desserts every day: a gesture of love for those at the table, a sweet memory to take with you.
As Steinbeck said: “This life is my life.”
And it is this very life that Andrés pours into his dishes, into his warm hospitality, into his desire to share an ancient story with a living, passionate present.
Come visit us!
