Blog & Stories

Stories, tips and recipes from the Gulf of Gela. A local's guide to eating well in Sicily.

The Sea

Where to eat fresh fish in Gela: a local's guide

On the Lungomare Federico II, where the Gulf stretches from sunrise to sunset, there is a way of eating that has nothing to do with tourist menus.

Sicilian Traditions

Traditional fish dishes in Gela: what locals eat

From pasta with fresh sardines to grilled swordfish, these are the dishes that tell the story of Gela's fishing tradition.

The Sea

Seasonal seafood in Gela: what to order and when

The Gulf of Gela changes with the seasons. Here's what to look for on the menu month by month.

Recipes

Spaghetti alle vongole veraci: the Gela way

Fresh clams, white wine, garlic, parsley. Simple ingredients, zero shortcuts. Here's how we make it.

Recipes

Grilled octopus: slow-cooked on the charcoal

Tender, smoky, perfect. The secret is patience, clean charcoal, and octopus that was swimming this morning.

Recipes

Frittura di paranza: light, crispy, the secret is clean oil

A mix of small fish from the morning catch, lightly floured and fried in fresh oil. Simple and addictive.

The Sea

The red prawn of the Gulf of Gela: why it's special

Transparent, sweet, intense. The gambero rosso from these waters is one of Sicily's best-kept secrets.

The Sea

The fish market of Gela: what to find and when to go

Every morning before dawn, the boats come in. Here's what the market looks like and what the fishermen bring.

Sicilian Traditions

Granita and brioche: the real Sicilian breakfast

Forget cappuccino and cornetto. In Sicily, breakfast means almond granita in a warm brioche col tuppo.

Sicilian Traditions

Sicilian desserts: cannolo, cassata and iris in Gela

Made fresh every morning. Crispy shells, ricotta, candied fruit. The real thing, not the airport version.

The Sea

How to tell if fish is truly fresh: eye, nose and hand

Bright eyes, sea smell, firm flesh. Luca's three rules for choosing fish at the market.