The Pani e Casu restaurant in Quartu Sant'Elena, led by chef Efisio Mameli, is the winner of the 32nd "La Lumaca d'Oro" gastronomic event, one of the most anticipated events of the Gesico Snail Festival. The judges were won over by a traditional dish, simple and rooted in the flavors of rural cuisine: "Snails in Country Sauce." For Mameli, who had previously won the prestigious award, this represents another success in a competition that celebrates the snail as the star of the island's gastronomy. The event confirmed the festival's strong appeal, combining cuisine, tradition, and entertainment. The evening was hosted by Gianluca Medas, while the hilarious jokes of comedian Gabriele Cossu and performances by artist Marta Proietti Osella enthralled the audience, which also involved the attending authorities. The jury was chaired by journalist Raimondo Mandis, president of Slow Food, who was called upon to evaluate the competing entries in a competition characterized by minimal differences between the dishes, all appreciated for their respective unique characteristics.
Second place went to My Dream restaurant in Mandas, with chef Nicola Matta and Virginia Massessi, creator of "Snails in beetroot sauce with caramelized onions." This dish was a particular hit with the audience, winning the informal vote. Current rules, however, do not allow the popular vote to be counted toward the official ranking. Third place went to Le Vigne Ducali farmhouse in Mandas, with chef Cristina Ennas and her "Snails with fregola and pumpkin," a blend of ingredients that harks back to the local culinary tradition. Out of competition, but highly anticipated, was the dish from the Gesico Pro Loco, entrusted to "farmer chef" Matteo Sechi. The dish presented, "Snails in Gesico style with breadcrumbs," represents one of the most authentic expressions of local cuisine: a humble dish originally, yet still highly valued today and deeply rooted in the town's gastronomic heritage. The success of Virginia Massessi's proposal has sparked a debate on the event's future. The Pro Loco and the Municipality have committed to modifying the regulations for the next edition, including introducing a popular jury vote among the factors that will contribute to determining the final score. This innovation could further enhance participation in a competition that already attracts enthusiasts, chefs, and visitors.
The 32nd Golden Snail is part of the Snail Festival, which annually draws visitors and foodies to Gesico, showcasing the local produce and culinary traditions of Trexenta. Alongside the food competition, the exchange between regions and food cultures confirms the event's role as an opportunity to promote tourism and rediscover Sardinia's rural identity. The festival continues over the weekend with a series of events celebrating flavor and tradition.