Il Mirto e la Rosa In Palermo

08/10/2025: Friendly and fast service, abundant dishes (even too much), everything excellent!

05/10/2025: In one of the city's most charming squares, Mangia e Bevi welcomes its guests with the authentic warmth of old-fashioned taverns. The atmosphere is reminiscent of historic trattorias, where time seems to slow down and the scent of tomato sauce lingers in the air like a promise of authenticity. The cuisine is typical and deeply rooted in Sicilian tradition, yet crafted with the simplicity that only those who truly understand the ingredients can achieve. The gastronomic journey begins with a plate of pasta alla Norma: crispy fried eggplant and a thick, velvety tomato sauce, perfectly balanced in sweetness and acidity. A classic executed with respect and heart. Pasta with sardines and fennel follows, a triumph of aromas: anise, sea, and earth blend in a savory and aromatic embrace. It's a dish that speaks the language of the island, with a rare balance between intensity and delicacy. The pan-baked pasta arrives steaming hot, with that irresistible dark crust that betrays its almost-hot cooking—a small imperfection that, paradoxically, amplifies its rustic character. It's a comfort food that evokes family Sundays. Finally, the baked rice with zucchini and cheese wins you over with its simplicity: a casserole dish with a homey, authentic flavor, where every spoonful is a return to the origins. All served in a setting steeped in historic charm, with interiors scented with antique wood and checked tablecloths reminiscent of old-fashioned taverns. The service is friendly and informal, just as you'd expect from a place that prioritizes conviviality. In short: Mangia e Bevi is a hymn to traditional Sicilian cuisine, honest and full of personality. Each dish is a fragment of memory, served with passion.