Last Visit: October 2024
My Rating: 7.5/10
Why: Great place to enjoy excellent seafood and Sicilian cuisine
Price: €€€/€€€€
Phone: 051227304
If you're looking for a taste of Sicily in Bologna, Trattoria da Maro is the perfect destination. Located in the historic center of the city, this trattoria has been a reference point for over 30 years for those who want to savor the authentic flavors of Sicilian cuisine without leaving Emilia-Romagna. Thanks to the chef's passion and the quality of the ingredients, Da Maro offers a culinary experience that combines the authenticity of traditional Sicilian dishes with a touch of creativity.
A Warm and Welcoming Atmosphere
Trattoria da Maro is known not only for the quality of its cuisine but also for the intimate and familial atmosphere that welcomes guests. Situated just a few steps from Bologna's main attractions, such as the Two Towers and Piazza Maggiore, it’s the ideal place for a culinary break during a day of exploring the city. The space is simply decorated, reminiscent of traditional osterias, with wooden tables and decorations that evoke Sicily, such as hand-painted ceramics and photos of the island's sea and landscapes.
The staff is extremely friendly, knowledgeable, and accommodating, ready to guide you in selecting dishes and to share the stories and traditions behind each recipe.
The Menu: A Journey Through Sicilian Flavors
The heart of Trattoria da Maro is undoubtedly its menu, which ranges from the great classics of Sicilian cuisine to creatively reimagined dishes. The offerings rotate regularly, while some signature dishes remain constant. Here are a few must-try dishes:
Sicilian Starters: A local classic is the sarde a beccafico with caponata, a typical Sicilian dish that is always a safe choice here.
The arancini with squid ink and calamari are good but not extraordinary, not quite on par with some of the delicacies I've had in Sicily.
The gamberi al marsala with burrata are excellent—highly recommended.
When available, the scallops with chicory (puntarelle) are sensational: they melt in your mouth.
Main Courses: My go-to dish is the spaghetti alla chitarra with squid ink, calamari, and zucchini, cooked in a way that allows the spaghetti to fully absorb the aroma of the calamari—it's an 8 out of 10. Among the other rotating pasta dishes, I would highlight the cavatelli with tuna, amberjack, cherry tomatoes, capers, pistachio pesto, and broccoli rabe cream, as well as the chili-spiced spaghettoni with mussels, clams, and friggitelli peppers. All of these dishes are sure to satisfy.
Second courses: Among the second courses, in addition to the excellent fried paranza (again, these are very good dishes, but not quite superlative—after all, we are in Bologna, not Sicily), the menu always features grilled octopus, sometimes served with eggplant and chicory, other times with bell pepper mayonnaise. There’s also the tuna steak, prepared either with a pistachio crust or with caramelized onions and caponata.
Desserts: The perfect way to end a meal at Da Maro is with a taste of typical Sicilian desserts, such as the must-try cassata and cannoli, along with options like crema catalana or cantucci with vin santo.
Fresh Ingredients and Artisan Quality
One of the strengths of Trattoria da Maro is the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients, many of which come directly from Sicily. This commitment to sourcing the best raw materials is evident in every dish, showcasing the richness and variety of the island's culinary tradition. The seafood arrives fresh daily, while seasonal vegetables and aromatic herbs are carefully selected to ensure authentic flavors.
Wine: A Selection of Sicilian Labels
To complete the dining experience, the trattoria offers a selection of Sicilian wines that perfectly pair with the dishes. From the freshness of Grillo Catarratto to the complexity of Nero d’Avola, each label is chosen to enhance the flavors of the cuisine. The staff is always available to suggest the best wine pairing for each course, making the meal a true journey through the vineyards and sun-drenched lands of Sicily.
Why try Trattoria da Maro in Bologna?
Trattoria da Maro is the ideal place for those who want to savor Sicilian cuisine in a welcoming and genuine atmosphere. Here are a few reasons why it's worth a visit:
Authenticity: The dishes are prepared following traditional Sicilian recipes, with carefully selected ingredients and a special focus on quality.
Warm Atmosphere: The trattoria offers a warm and informal environment, perfect for a family lunch, a romantic dinner, or a gathering with friends.
Strategic Location: Situated in the heart of Bologna, it is easily accessible and makes for a perfect stop during a visit to the city.
Great Value for Money: While offering high-quality cuisine, Trattoria da Maro maintains accessible prices, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a quality dining experience without overspending.
Conclusion: A Piece of Sicily in Bologna
Trattoria da Maro is more than just a restaurant—it's a place where the passion for Sicilian cuisine merges with Emilian hospitality, creating a unique experience.
If you find yourself in Bologna and are craving a culinary journey to the beautiful Mediterranean island, don’t hesitate to book a table at Trattoria da Maro. It will be an experience that leaves you smiling and eager to return.
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