Latteria Mamma Iabica (SR)
In Syracuse, an osteria, the only Slow Food Chiocciola in the city, inspired by the local deli shop of the past, where you can savor the true soul of Sicily with the magical atmosphere of Sunday lunch with your grandparents.
A dream, that of offering authentic Sicilian cuisine that followed the rhythm of the seasons and used only local products, which as far back as 2010 was still boldly visionary.
Mamma Iabica was born, in fact, from the idea of Gianni Cavallaro, a craftsman in the world of interiors who became a cook out of passion, to open a focacceria that used exclusively ancient local grains in an area of the city that was still little frequented at that time, close to where he used to work.
The search for niche ingredients linked to the territory is constant, as is the rigorous respect for the traditional methods of preparing our recipes.
(Gianni Cavallaro)
Thanks to his skill and innate talent, the eatery is successful and, growing hand in hand with his art in the kitchen, Gianni decides to expand it and make it become a full-fledged restaurant which however retains the spirit of the neighborhood shops of the past .
Together with his family, always present in the restaurant, Gianni decides to recall some of the best memories of his childhood that led him to become passionate about food: Sunday lunches with his grandparents.
Starting from this image, the entire decor of the osteria was inspired by family tables with vintage 1950s furnishings, reused wooden and Formica chairs, and many doilies, also used as tablecloths. Two very intimate rooms, warmed in the evening by candlelight, and a summer dehors where traditional cuisine is offered and everything is handmade with local ingredients.
The only Slow Food Chiocciola in Syracuse, Gianni has over the years become a lover of typical Sicilian products, such as the Modican cow’s milk which he uses for all preparations or delicacies such as the Iblei black truffle.
On the menu there are seasonal dishes designed to increase the joy of conviviality and sharing, such as aubergine rolls, cacio all’Argentiera or prawn miniballs, delicious first courses, among which linguine with anchovies, lemon and pecorino cheese and tonnarelli with white fish ragù, and second courses based on the catch of the day and locally sourced meats.
An authentic corner of Sicily, where the passion of its owner is present in every detail, from the smile of the staff to the care with which the flavors and products offered are described.
The Secret
Also the name chosen for his restaurant is linked to Gianni’s youth. Mamma Iabica is, in fact, an artificial irrigation canal dating back to 400 b.C. which then over time became a river. Its waters have marked the youth of many Syracusans, both as a source of water and for the numerous sporting activities practiced there. A source of “happy life” to which Gianni wanted to dedicate his osteria.
Useful Info
Latteria Mamma Iabica
Via G. B. Perasso 13
96100 Siracusa
Tel. +39 333 1893176
Starters: from 8 euro
First courses: from 12 euro
Second courses: from 16 euro
Desserts: 5 euro