Cantina Siciliana In Trapani

...it's a surreal, wonderful place!

A very nice place with several items reflecting Sicilian tradition. The staff is friendly and helpful. The food is truly excellent, made with top-quality ingredients. I found the prices a bit high, probably due to the location and their participation in a food advisor program. When prices rise, so do expectations; in fact, I was disappointed that they didn't even de-bone the fish in the couscous. The presentation of the mixed fried fish also left something to be desired. There are other restaurants with the same quality, more generous portions, and lower prices.

We had dinner at this restaurant, which we found by chance after reading a few reviews. We ordered two appetizers (marinated red shrimp and sardines) and two busiate pasta. The appetizers were really good, but the busiate (both the one with swordfish and eggplant and the one with shrimp and zucchini) were unfortunately completely tasteless. We asked for both chili pepper and salt, but there was no way to add flavor to the pasta (of course, more than the lack of salt in the pasta, the problem was the sauce, which tasted like nothing). We reported this to the waiter, who, however, simply told us he'd report it to the kitchen. He didn't offer to remake the dish, much less offer a discount on the total (we finished both dishes anyway because we hate throwing food away). The inconvenience was poorly handled (hence the 2-star service). The atmosphere is nice, with many characteristic Sicilian pieces, although when there's so much stuff, you have to be meticulous about keeping it dusted; it actually felt a little dirty. Unfortunately, great expectations were somewhat disappointed by the busiate.

The best in town, simple or elaborate dishes expertly crafted, fulfilling all your culinary desires. Efficient and attentive service, polite and professional staff. And then there's her. The Queen Aissi Hajer, the absolute chef ❤️

Four of us went for two dinners in a row because we loved it so much! Only twice because we then left. Otherwise, we would have returned. The first night, all four of us ate a splendid seafood couscous (the plain one, with broth added gradually). A feast. Then a splendid caponata. Grillo wine to accompany it and a Marsala to finish. Unhurried speed, kindness, and discreet, sincere friendliness characterize the service and the entire staff. The second night, we opted for something different: busiate pasta with tuna and bottarga, with red shrimp, and again seafood couscous. Everything was top-notch. Confirmation of the excellent quality, kindness, and that refined friendliness that... it's truly a shame to have to go back!

Four of us went for dinner. I have to say we were a bit disappointed. The service was quick and friendly, but in our opinion the food didn't live up to the reviews and those of other restaurants in Trapani. The fritto misto, in particular, was subpar. The bill was also a bit high.

Classic, does not deviate from local reality

This place was recommended by friends. They place a strong emphasis on tradition, and it shows in the menu. For appetizers, we had the mixed tuna fish, with bottarga, tuna salami, and carpaccio. Despite its simplicity, the flavors are bold, and the seafood is like a treat. For our first course, we had busiate pasta with Trapani-style pesto: the garlic flavor is bold and intense, as it should be, but the pesto reminded me a lot of what I've always eaten, homemade and fresh. The fried eggplant was an excellent side dish, which slightly dampened the garlic's power. The fish couscous was amazing, completely traditional, even in its flavors, very reminiscent of grandma's. Overall, the first courses are a pleasant reminder of childhood. The dessert consisted of freshly fried cassatelle, fried well; the quality of the ricotta was excellent. The service was efficient, friendly, even cheerful, and not at all intrusive.

The setting is beautiful, with Sicilian puppets and Moorish heads. The service and professionalism are top-notch. I tried the excellent busiate pasta with Trapani pesto, but the couscous I saw at the next table also looked truly inviting. Definitely a must-visit for anyone passing through Trapani.

When we arrived in Sicily, we wanted to satisfy our craving for couscous and busiate as quickly as possible, and this place didn't disappoint. The portions were generous and, above all, good quality. The service was attentive, courteous, and unobtrusive.