Osteria Ballarò menu overview in Palermo Italy
Discover the vibrant flavors of Sicily at Osteria Ballarò, located in the heart of Palermo. This inviting restaurant, set in a charming medieval stable, offers a menu that celebrates traditional Sicilian cuisine with a bold and creative twist. Visitors can expect a delectable journey through authentic street food, fresh seafood dishes, and irresistible desserts, all prepared with the freshest local ingredients and a cosmopolitan flair.
starters
Begin your meal with classic Sicilian antipasti that highlight the island’s rich culinary heritage. The Arancine are a must-try — golden fried rice balls infused with saffron and filled with savory meat ragù, peas, and cheese. For a lighter bite, Panelle offers crisp chickpea flour fritters seasoned with fresh parsley and onion, fried to perfection in olive oil. Don't miss the Caponata, a vibrant sweet-and-sour vegetable medley featuring eggplant, tomatoes, celery, capers, olives, onions, vinegar, and sugar — a true Sicilian staple bursting with flavor.
mains
The main courses at Osteria Ballarò showcase a diverse range of Sicilian coastal and inland flavors. Pasta lovers will delight in the Tagliolino all'anciova — homemade spaghetti tossed with anchovies, broccoli, lard, and a touch of spicy toasted bread for crunch. For seafood aficionados, the Lasagna multicolore di mare layers succulent fish, mollusks, shellfish, and pasta into a sumptuous dish. Meat enthusiasts can savor the Tortello artigianale di manzo aggrassatu, featuring handmade beef-filled pasta seasoned with an aromatic blend of herbs and spices.
Other standout main dishes include the Iris di baccalà a sfincione — a savory salt cod cake layered with bread, tomato, onion, and cheese, delivering a comforting yet sophisticated bite. The Frittura di mare brings a crispy medley of fresh fish, squid, shrimp, and vegetables, lightly battered and fried to golden perfection. For a rich and hearty choice, the Guancia di manzo in salsa all’Amaro Amara features tender beef cheek braised in a liqueur sauce alongside seasonal pumpkin and chestnuts, exemplifying the restaurant’s skill in blending tradition with innovation.
desserts
Complete your Sicilian feast with a selection of exquisite desserts that balance sweetness and texture with local ingredients. The Babasù con crema tiramisù elevates the classic baba cake by pairing it with a luscious tiramisu cream. For a lighter yet flavorful option, the Biancomangiare alle mandorle speziate e frutti rossi features a delicate almond milk pudding infused with warm spices and topped with vibrant red fruits. The traditional Cassata siciliana is a showstopper — a colorful cake layered with ricotta, candied fruit, sponge cake, and marzipan that embodies the festive spirit of Sicily.
drinks and specials
Osteria Ballarò offers an impressive wine list featuring some of Sicily’s finest vintages and a curated selection of cocktails that perfectly complement the menu’s rich flavors. Whether you prefer a crisp white to accompany seafood or a robust red to pair with the meat dishes, the knowledgeable staff can recommend the ideal choice. The cocktail program combines classic favorites with inventive mixology, adding a cosmopolitan touch to your dining experience. The restaurant’s welcoming ambiance and attentive service make it a perfect spot for groups and families seeking an authentic yet stylish Sicilian meal.
- Starters Arancine, Panelle, Caponata
- Mains Tagliolino all'anciova, Lasagna multicolore di mare, Tortello artigianale di manzo, Iris di baccalà, Frittura di mare, Guancia di manzo in salsa Amaro Amara
- Desserts Babasù con crema tiramisù, Biancomangiare alle mandorle speziate, Cassata siciliana
- Drinks Extensive Sicilian wine list, creative cocktails
