After KBT and I grazed our way through the Ortigia market, we sped off to our lunch reservation at Sicilia in Tavola.
We started with polpette di pesce neonata grigliate (grilled whitebait patties). The fluffy clouds were laced with peppery parsley, parmesan and topped with a splash of lemon juice. They were cooked perfectly. (Note: I learned yesterday that there is an EU-wide fishing ban on neonata due to overfishing. I will not be ordering neonata anytime soon and encourage others to do the same).
We chose gnocchi con ricci di mare e pistacchio di Bronte (gnocchi with sea urchin and chopped pistachio nuts) and spaghetti mare con granella di mandorle (spaghetti with mixed seafood and grated almonds) for our first courses.
In Sicily, I search out ricci di mare in any form I can get my hands on. Creamy and bright, it tastes and speaks of the sea. The plump potato pillows in a light fish sauce topped with coral bits and toasted green gems were luscious.
Spaghetti mixed with tender shrimp and chunks of fish was complimented by sweet grated almonds.
Due to a food coma, we stopped eating after the first course. The warm service, simple décor and range of fresh seafood based pasta dishes make for a winning recipe. I recommend making a reservation.
Sicilia in Tavola
via Cavour, 28 Siracusa
Tel. +39 392 4610889