Bistrot 18 — Restaurant in Syracuse

This charming establishment, with its cozy and inviting ambiance, offers an authentic dining experience that is both heartwarming and memorable.

Our culinary journey commenced with a delectable appetizer of raw shrimps, fresh from the Mediterranean. These shrimps, served in their simplest form, were a celebration of the sea, enhanced by a light dressing of lemon and olive oil that accentuated their natural sweetness.

Following this, we savored the Risotto de Gambi, a dish where every grain of rice was expertly cooked, infused with the essence of shrimp. This dish perfectly embodied the balance between traditional Sicilian cooking and contemporary finesse, delighting our taste buds with its comforting yet sophisticated flavors.

The star of the evening, however, was the Dorada. This fish, known for its delicate texture and flavor, was masterfully prepared with tomatoes, creating a harmonious blend of freshness and simplicity. The tomatoes added a juicy, tangy burst that complemented the Dorada's subtle taste, embodying the essence of Sicilian summer on a plate.

For dessert, the classic Crème Brûlée was the perfect finale. It was expertly crafted, staying true to its traditional roots with a perfectly caramelized top and a rich, creamy custard underneath.

In summary, this family-owned restaurant in Ortigia is a true gem, offering a genuine slice of Sicily with its combination of fresh ingredients, masterful cooking, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. It stands as a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an unforgettable dining experience...

Warm welcome right away! The piato de crudi - crudo platter was outstanding! It had shrimp, anchovies, octopus, tuna, and salmon. I would suggest informing the guest to begin with the milder fish, then move onto the bolder, acidic selections. That way the milder fish, such as the salmon in this preparation, can be appreciated for its exceptional simplicity. The star was the tuna, which was explosive with flavor! Oh, and the tender octopus!!! All the fish was prepared with care and excellent. Supreme dish!

The shrimp risotto, was utterly disappointing, however. It was mounded like a lump of mush, which is so shameful. It should puddle on the plate, and be silky with comfort in every bite. It also lacked seasoning, oy vay, a disaster.

The crudo platter was so excellent that all is...

Being a tourist from America speaking a native language can be hard, I have been studying for a couple of years so thankfully that helped me, BUT FEAR NOT! The owners know more than enough English and as advertised, French, to help you get through your ordering and culinary experience. In terms of the food, it was fresh, it was delectable, and hands down the best meal I’ve had in all of Sicily yet!! Their smiles and kindness made the atmosphere all the better. The small kitchen and husband and wife working made it feel like a i family atmosphere, something Italy is known for, La famiglia! I will go back in all future visits and encourage anyone coming to Sicily, particularly to this area, to eat here, you won’t regret it, and you will...