Via Scalo, Malfa, Italy
€€€€ ・ Sicilian,Contemporary
One Star: High quality cooking
Situated in the Aeolian Islands, this charming inn is home to young chef Martina Caruso who, having practically grown up here, has returned home to take up the reins at Signum after formative experiences elsewhere. Today, this young chef leads a team of nine in the kitchen, while her brother manages the charming hotel built to resemble a typical Aeolian hamlet. Martina knows exactly how to bring out the best of the vibrant ingredients sourced from the region, her own kitchen garden and the nearby sea – she allows the power of these ingredients to shine forth yet manages to make light and playful use of their intense flavours, showcasing their qualities instead of trying to hide them. Luca and cousin Raffaele enhance this gourmet experience with excellent wines (some home-produced), also available by the glass, and superb cocktails.
MICHELIN Green Star
"Thanks to this restaurant’s location on an island which boasts a wealth of zero-mile ingredients, a sustainable approach comes naturally to chef Martina Caruso, who says “We often work with local fishermen, choosing fish that are not always that well known, with moray eel and oily fish proving to be the most popular”. The chef’s focus on sustainable produce is also evident in her use of wild herbs and foraged ingredients, as well as the different breads made from traditional Sicilian grains. All in all, a truly environmentally friendly approach!"
Martina Caruso