La Capinera

• Sustainable and Plant-Based Emphasis in Contemporary Sicilian Cuisine
  La Capinera, under chef Pietro D’Agostino, is notable for its sustainable approach and emphasis on plant-based ingredients, which is unconventional for a Michelin-starred restaurant traditionally known for seafood. Dishes like white bean velouté and mushroom cappuccino with candied orange and hazelnuts highlight this commitment to a simple, healthy, and conscious diet while exploring innovative flavor combinations and cooking techniques.

• Breathtaking Location with Mediterranean and Mount Etna Views
  The restaurant offers a Michelin-star dining experience set against stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and Mount Etna, blending elegance with warmth in its ambiance. This unique setting enhances the culinary experience, making it ideal for romantic or celebratory occasions and connecting diners deeply with the Sicilian landscape.

• Creative Reinterpretation of Sicilian Culinary Tradition with Local Excellence
  La Capinera is distinguished by its creative reinterpretation of Sicilian cuisine, combining the chef’s innovation with regional excellence, including Slow Food principles and the use of numerous Sicilian oils. The menu features standout dishes such as "Spaghetti with Sea Urchin and Lemon Zest" and "Grilled Swordfish with Caponata," showcasing a balance of tradition and modernity through locally sourced, high-quality ingredients.

The most honored or signature ingredients at the Michelin-starred restaurant La Capinera in Taormina are:

• Red Prawns (Mazara del Vallo red prawn): Featured in dishes like red prawns carpaccio with citrus essence and local herbs, showcasing the sweetness and freshness of Sicilian seafood.

• Sea Urchin: Used notably in house-made squid ink pasta with sea urchin and bottarga, bringing a briny, oceanic depth to the dish.

• Bottarga: A prized Sicilian ingredient of cured fish roe, paired with sea urchin in pasta dishes to add umami richness.

• Bronte Pistachio: Incorporated as a crust for slow-cooked octopus, adding a unique nutty flavor and texture from the famous Sicilian pistachios.

• Local Aromatic Herbs and Citrus: Used to enhance seafood dishes like the local catch of the day and prawns carpaccio, reflecting the freshness and terroir of Mount Etna’s surroundings.

These ingredients are significant as they highlight the rich marine bounty and unique Sicilian terroir, elevated through Chef Pietro D'Agostino’s innovative and sustainable culinary approach. The dishes balance freshness, texture, and regional authenticity, making these ingredients central to La Capinera’s signature style.

Tasting Menus

• Sea & Air - Earth & Fire (4 elements come together on the tasting menus): €180

Signature Dishes

• Benjamin Button: fresh pasta ‘buttons’ served with veal ragout and rosemary oil (price not specified)
• Cacao Meravigliao: seafood tagliolini with red prawns and mozzarella foam (price not specified)