There's an authentic piece of Assemini's gastronomic tradition that has conquered Catalonia, climbing to the top step of the podium on the popular television program Little Big Italy . The protagonists of this extraordinary international success are Claudia Mulas (46) and Massimo Izzo (45), the two young restaurateurs from Assemini who passionately run their restaurant, Pappa e Citti , in the heart of Barcelona.
What is panada?
To understand the significance of this triumph, we must begin with the roots of the dish that captivated the Catalan jury: the panada. It is Assemini's quintessential dish: a crispy pastry made from semolina and lard (called violada ), rigorously handcrafted using an ancient and expert technique, expertly braided around a rich and flavorful filling. Traditionally prepared with lamb, eel, potatoes, and flavorful seasonings, the panada represents the profound identity, history, and culture of the Assemini community.
Victory in Spain
Anyone who knows Claudia and Massimo knows the tenacity, sacrifice, and hard work behind their restaurant in Barcelona. Leaving their homeland to embark on a brand new business, starting from scratch while simultaneously raising a family in a large foreign metropolis, requires extraordinary courage.
In the kitchen of Pappa e Citti , panada has become the true star of the menu. By bringing the authentic flavors of Campidano abroad, the couple has demonstrated that the quality and tradition of Sardinian cuisine knows no geographical boundaries. Their TV appearance as the best regional cuisine restaurant in Barcelona is a fitting recognition for a lifetime of dedication and love for their roots.
The mayor's comment
The two fellow citizens' success sparked a wave of enthusiasm in Assemini as well. Mayor Mario Puddu expressed the praise of the administration and the citizens: "Claudia and Massimo's victory in Barcellona is a source of immense pride for Assemini. They have shown that with passion, sacrifice, and hard work, you can make progress anywhere, taking our panada and our identity to the top of the world."
