Trattoria Genova dinner review by Suzanne Oswald

August 24, 2026

Suzanne Oswald ventures to Trattoria Genova – a Renfrewshire mainstay that’s been serving up delicacies for a decade now

For over ten years, Trattoria Genova has been serving up authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of Paisley. Since opening its doors on Glasgow Road in 2016, the restaurant has carved out a loyal following, breathing new life into what was originally a traditional pub.

In its place stands a polished yet inviting Italian restaurant, complete with warm lighting, a well-stocked bar and an open kitchen that exudes delicious aromas. The seating strikes a nice balance too: intimate enough for conversation, but with just the right amount of atmosphere that reminds you you’re somewhere worth being.

Like its sister restaurant, Trattoria Roma in Johnstone, Genova has picked up its fair share of accolades over the years, a reflection of its steady appeal to families, couples and groups of friends alike. But what lies at the heart of its success?

On my first visit, two things stand out almost immediately: the ease and warmth of the service, and the quality of the food. Together, they form the kind of dependable formula that turns first-time diners into regulars – something clearly evident on a busy Tuesday evening when nearly every table is spoken for.

From the moment we step inside, there’s an easy friendliness to the place. The staff greet us with genuine warmth, happy to guide us through the menu and quick to make us feel at home. Looking around the room, it’s clear many guests are on familiar terms – welcomed not just as customers, but as returning faces.

Then of course, there’s the main reason people return: the food. The menu is very expansive, spanning all your favourite pastas, pizzas and Italian staples, alongside a thoughtful selection of fish and chicken dishes, and plenty to keep young diners happy.

Trattoria Genova in Paisley — © Mill Magazine/Kat Sloan

Whittling it all down was the hard part, but we were gifted a portion of focaccia to help us deliberate – thin, crisp-edged, lightly salted, and elevated by a cheesy, tomato dipping sauce that proved dangerously moreish. It quickly set the tone for things to come: simple things done well.

Eventually we landed on the Capesante Con Pancetta (£14) and the Burrata (£9). The scallops were plump, sweet and delicate, beautifully offset by the peppery black pudding, creamy, silky pea puree and salty crispy bacon. A classic combination done very well. The burrata, meanwhile, brought some quiet indulgence. The soft pillow of mozzarella gave way to a creamy, buttery centre, which mingled with the sweet peppers and pesto dressing. A mild yet decadent blend.

For main course, the Conchiglie Con Gamberoni Chorizo e Zucchini (£18.50) was both delicious and indulgent – large pasta shells cooked in white wine, cream and tomato sauce and packed with baby prawns, chorizo and courgette. It was a rich, luscious and devourable triumph – each mouthful as moreish as the next. This plate was enough to reject the notion that pasta is best cooked at home.

As part of her late Mother’s Day treat, my mum was instantly won over by the Branzino Siciliana (£22). Three fillets of crispy, pan-fried sea bass arrived on top of a rustic, tangy medley of chorizo, capers, olives, corguettes, tomatoes and potatoes. The fish was perfectly cooked, flaking away over the hearty, bright accompaniments and soaking up the savoury depth of flavour. Another success to add to the ever-growing list.

On this occasion, we conceded defeat at dessert – but maybe next time. We both agreed that this was a kitchen worth returning to.

So, if you’re one of the few people in the area who have yet to stumble across Genova, don’t wait about. This is delicious, refined Italian food, full of heart and flavour. Add to that an appealing set menu and prices that feel refreshingly modest compared to Glasgow city centre, and you have a restaurant that knows exactly what it’s doing – and does it very well indeed.

Trattoria Genova, 4 Glasgow Road, Paisley, PA1 3QA, 0141 849 1500, Facebook, Instagram