In Taormina, a picturesque town perched on the east coast of Sicily, I indulged in one of Sicily’s quintessential breakfast traditions: granita with brioche. This personal, bucket-list experience epitomized the unique flavors and atmosphere of the island, offering a taste that can’t be replicated elsewhere.
The Setting: Taormina
Taormina is famous for its stunning location, perched high on a hill with views of the Greco-Roman theatre, sandy beaches, and cliffs that plunge into the sea. The town is a magnet for tourists, yet it holds onto its old-world charm, especially in its historic center.
Nonna Rosa: A Taste of Tradition
In the heart of this charming town, I stepped into Nonna Rosa, a traditional pasticceria/gelateria. Here, I ordered a classic granita caffe con panna e brioche—a coffee-flavored granita topped with whipped cream and served with a buttery brioche.
The Granita Experience
Sitting at a small outdoor table, I experienced the granita, a texture that is difficult to describe yet unforgettable:
- It’s neither too melty nor too firm, holding its shape on the spoon but instantly melting in the mouth.
- Unlike an ice slush, it’s not grainy, yet it doesn’t have the smoothness of traditional ice cream.
The combination of coffee-flavored granita, fresh cream, and a buttery brioche is pure magic. Dipping the brioche into the granita, as Sicilian tradition suggests, brings together all the intense flavors in perfect harmony.
Practical Tip: When preparing granita at home, the key is getting the texture just right. Scrape the mixture regularly as it freezes to achieve the perfect balance between smoothness and iciness. Try pairing it with a freshly baked briochefor an authentic Sicilian breakfast experience.
Address: Nonna Rosa, Via S. Pancrazio, Taormina
