Swordfish alla ghiotta: Scilla’s “locally sourced” cuisine
In the Strait of Messina, swordfish is much more than just food: it is history, myth, ritual, and identity.
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At Sea: A Millennia-Old Tradition
“The fish was caught this morning,” the chef reveals proudly. He bought it at the pier from the fishermen who , from May through the end of July , have been making the daily trek across the sea off Scilla in their nimble “passerelle” boats since time immemorial , waiting to spot “the prince of the sea.” His story touches on many aspects: traditions, myths, the daily toil, the tools of the trade, and the sacredness of rituals and words that date back to the Greek and Byzantine worlds. One thing strikes us: the fish isn’t just food—it’s part of the local identity.
In the kitchen: swordfish alla ghiotta
A drizzle of oil in the pan, a whole clove of garlic, a sprinkle of parsley, a bit of onion. Chef Enzo lets it brown for a few moments, and the aroma of Mediterranean cuisine already fills the air. He adds the datterini tomatoes, which sizzle merrily, then the chopped olives and a handful of capers. He sautés them. A pinch of salt and black pepper, and voilà: the sauce is ready.
On the table: high-quality, seasonal ingredients
With homemade bread and a good glass of white wine, we’re ready for this first taste. Swordfish, Chef Salvatore tells us as he prepares the ingredients for the next course, is also known as the “pig of the sea”: nothing goes to waste. Awaiting us are the famous rolls with flavorful fillings (his specialty) and the equally famous swordfish sandwich with salmoriglio, which, for mysterious reasons, has become the quintessential dish of Scilla’s summers.
From Strangers to Temporary Residents
And after this experience at the restaurant “Il Ponte,” at the end of Marina Grande, we feel right at home: we’ve nourished (well) both body and spirit, and we’re a little more aware and a little happier. Our thanks go to the chefs, Enzo and Salvatore, and to the staff at Il Ponte: Mary, Marianna, Giuseppe, and Angelo. Their story is worth hearing, too!
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The Map thanks:
Scilla, dove peschiamo sorrisi – Comune di Scilla – PNRR Ministero della Cultura M1C3, Mis. 2, Inv. 2.1 “Attrattività dei borghi storici” – Finanziato dall’Unione europea, NextGenerationEU – CUP F79I22000150006
Enter the Map of Italy's Hidden Wonders and find treasures where you least expect it... Inspire, Recommend, Share...
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