Cefalu native and graduate of the Palermo culinary school , Ignazio Messina opened his first restaurant in The Aligre district in 2001. And now has a second location by the same name, between Les Halles and the Sentier. The restaurant is very pleasant, with a large terrace opposite the Pierre Lazareff square. Upon entering, you will find a bodega with shelves stocked with bottles, jars and Sicilian products, where you can sample some of the great Italian pastry classics or delicious artisanal gelato starting at 11am. It is also the perfect place to meet for a casual afterwork spritz accompanied with a plate of antipasti or charcuterie. Behind lies a beautiful dining room with a cozy, age-worn feel bordered by the open-concept kitchen and, in the back, a lovely veranda you can reserve for a private dining. But the best surprise awaits in the kitchen, where Ignazio Messina made the particularly wise move of recruiting young and brilliant Sicilian chef Giuseppe Galati who has worked at his share of starred restaurants. Everything we tasted was truly exquisite. To start, there are a number of antipasti available at the single price of €7, including remarkable roasted peppers with olive oil and pistachio and an elegant Camone tomato salad. If you are a pasta lover, be sure to order the exceptional homemade pasta with sea urchins (€24): an original taste experience with the delicious, tangy flavor of the sea. For dessert, don’t hesitate to try the scrumptious homemade ice cream at €3 per scoop. An abundant selection of Italian wines. Don’t wait to give this place a try!
11am to 10:30 pm Closed Sunday Average price: €35.
Summer holidays: August 13 to 17.
