To think of these arancini as mere “rice balls” is a slight on Sicilian cuisine; they are so much more. Nowhere else in the city will you dine on such crisp, classic beauties—filled with ragù, peas, mozzarella and rice cooked in chicken stock, then presented in a pool of light tomato sauce. Rest assured though as the menu goes on to list other authentic and deliciously rendered items, including the 'rianata pizza of Trapani.

The rustic space is filled with old, crackle-glazed platters that probably held the exact style of the rich anelletti al forno, back in the Old Country. Before you leave, stock up on specialty ingredients that are strategically displayed for sale. Wine bottles racked up along the walls hint at a lengthy and noteworthy selection.