La Gensola

La Gensola Review

For Italian "mainlanders," going out for Sicilian fare is like international dining: it's a culinary adventure involving out-of-the-ordinary tastes and flavor combinations, many thanks to the island's interesting mix of Arab, African, and Mediterranean influences. La Gensola, tucked away on a back street on the "quiet side" of Viale Trastevere, offers a respite from the Roman standards, and a welcome alternative it is. Start with antipasto, perhaps the fresh tuna "meatballs" or gratineéd scallops with squid ink. Pastas, like a homemade tagliatelle with sun-dried tomatoes, baby calamari, and spicy peperoncino, are zippy on the palate. Since Sicily is a Mediterranean island, its cuisine leans heavily on the bounty of the sea, so a fresh fish like turbot with tomatoes, red onion, and capers is a wonderful choice. Allow the knowledgeable servers to guide you through the selective wine list featuring some lesser-known southern Italian labels. And for dessert, don't pass up an opportunity to try a cannoli or a piece of cassata cake. Mmm, buono!