Amazing Appetizers, Chef Nino Di Costanzo, Dani' Maison, Ischia, (Na)

- June 16, 2016

The scene - a sunny Saturday afternoon on the isle of Ischia. I followed Chef Nino Di Costanzo down the small trail through the garden that led to his brand new restaurant Dani’Maison.

Dani’ Maison, an exclusive restaurant in the chef’s home – one that he opened up less than a month ago after ten years at Il Mosaico – where he earned 2 Michelin stars.

A total of six tables-two located right in the kitchen. And it must have been my lucky day since one of them was set for me. It was there in the kitchen where I was handed a glass of champagne...

and given strict instructions for the day from the chef…

Divertiti! Enjoy yourself!

Chef Nino Di Costanzo

And with a quick smile, Di Costanzo joined his young brigade and went to work.

It wasn't long that an exciting array of dishes took the short trip from the pass to my table. Beginning with Di Costanzo's corral reef filled with crunchy color.

Snacks such as basil chips and fried red shrimp - the head only, though, because that's the best part!

To crunchy color - I'll think I'll also add cool . Imagine this tray being set before you.
Divertente !

Cool courses like braided zucchini stuffed with a bonito tartare...

Or a mini caprese...

Fake mozzarella including instructions such as pick them up with your fingers and pop them in your mouth...divertente!

Beetroot sponge with creamy tuna and sprouts...

Purple potato chips topped with a pizzaiolo tomato sauce...divertente!

Next up - Di Costanzo's crudo...his fresh seafood platter. A giant puzzle packed with color, coolness, and complex flavors. Each piece of this seafood platter puzzle was placed down in front of me in a particular order. An order which I should so all the pieces would play perfectly on my palate...

The first piece - scampi, lemon pasta, and mini micro vegetables...