I'm half Sicilian, eat Italian food often, and visited Sicily six months ago. Those are my qualifications for saying this place is okay but not extraordinary.
I arrived for dinner around 8 pm on the night of a bank holiday in Belgium. Many places were shuttered in the city and the idea of pushing my way through a crowded bar scene in hopes of finding food wasn't too tantalizing. As such, I ended up here.
It was right down the street from my hotel so I had passed it a few times. It looked like a classy modern yet casual spot. And it is. But I'm not so sure it's good for solo travelers.
I walked in and was given a table away from the drafty entrance, which I appreciated, but I then waited quite a while just for a menu. A couple seated long after me had menus in hand first.
I ordered a Chimay (when in Belgium) and the strozzapreti con crema di melanzane. It arrived with a salty ricotta side. Apparently some diners don't like the ricotta. I can say I thought it made the dish so much better and would've been totally bland without it.
I was feeling awkward as I sat and noticed other parties getting exceptional treatment. Other people were treated to a listing of the evening's specials. I only overheard them.
I will say the owner (manager?) was very sweet. He was the one who ended up bringing my check (after I asked twice) and he was all smiles.
I think it's better to come with a group here (a guy on his own sat down, waited a bit, then hauled out without ordering) and to order something with fish. Also their desserts looked pretty good. read more