Sikelia - the new luxury retreat in Pantelleria - and Milan’s renowned restaurant Il Ristorante Trussardi alla Scala have joined forces to open Themà Restaurant at Sikelia. Themà will introduce Pantelleria’s local Arabic and African influenced flavours to traditional Italian recipes to nourish the souls of visitors to the island of Pantelleria.
Says Luca Cinacchi, Food & Beverage Manager of Trussardi alla Scala, “Our restaurants share the same values and commitment in offering unforgettable food experiences with effortless elegance to our guests. The traditional dammuso home of Sikelia also highlights Themà’s unique offering”.
This summer, Roberto Conti, the Executive Chef of the Milanese restaurant, leads the kitchen of Themà with a gourmet menu that showcases the traditional recipes of Sicily and Pantelleria with an added Arabic-African twist. Dishes include: Mazzara del Vallo Prawns with Almonds, Lemon and Coffee, Pantelleria-style Roast Rabbit, Creamed Cod with Couscous Timbale, Gnocco with Buffalo Mozzarella and Lime, Swordfish with Gazpacho and Chef’s Pantelleria-style Bacio (a ricotta based dessert) to name just a few.
At the heart of Roberto’s menu, there is an authentic passion for Pantelleria gastronomy: Arabic spices, Mediterranean and African dishes and regionally sourced ingredients using the local Coste Ghirlanda Estate’s products including olives, capers, fruit and wines from the renowned Zibibbo grapes.
Sikelia was created by Giulia Pazienza Gelmetti, who is also the figurehead behind Pantelleria’s Coste Ghirlanda Estate, producer of renowned Zibibbo and Grenache wines.
Ms Pazienza Gelmetti comments: “Pantelleria has much to offer: my passion is to share its beauty with people who care about fine things and I could not find a better partner than Trussardi alla Scala to complete my vision. Both Roberto and Luca love this island as much as I do and I am immensely thrilled that Trussardi Alla Scala with such authentic, creative cuisine and exceptional quality will be bringing their incredible skills to our unique property– exciting times are ahead”.
