Cyril Lignac’s Overrated Table Replaced by Calabrian Chef Denny Imbroisi’s Authentic Italian Cuisine
Once upon a time, there was a table in Paris that was vastly overrated: Cyril Lignac’s Ischia. With this restaurant, the celebrity chef appeared to be more interested in taking selfies and peddling a superficial Italian theme than in delivering inspired cuisine.
Lignac’s relentless use of vowels in the menu ("a," "i," "o") and reliance on clichés like basil leaves on mozzarella and limoncello in baba au rhum was a clever marketing ploy, creating an illusion of Italian authenticity that masked the lack of substance. Italy, it seemed, had become the magic formula in gastronomy, and at Lignac’s Ischia, neither the thought nor the magic was present.
However, the news of Lignac’s departure has been met with relief. In his place, Calabrian chef Denny Imbroisi has taken over the helm, bringing with him a renewed sense of culinary integrity and passion for his native cuisine.
Putting aside Imbroisi’s past appearances on the reality cooking show "Top Chef" (a regretful reminder of the superficiality that has often plagued the restaurant industry), his impressive CV and multiple other establishments in Paris serve as testaments to his culinary expertise.
What truly sets Imbroisi apart is his unwavering commitment to authenticity. His carbonaras, a dish that has become synonymous with Italian cuisine, exemplify this philosophy. Unlike Lignac’s, who relied on gimmicks to elevate the dish, Imbroisi’s carbonaras are a testament to the simplicity and purity of Italian cooking.
The secret lies in the use of high-quality ingredients, such as guanciale (cured pork cheek) instead of pancetta, and the careful balance of creamy egg sauce and al dente pasta. The result is a harmonious blend of flavors that leaves no doubt as to the authenticity of the dish.
But Imbroisi’s passion extends beyond carbonaras. His menu is a testament to the diverse culinary traditions of Calabria, a region in southern Italy known for its spicy and flavorful cuisine. From the fiery ‘nduja sausage to the delicate Tropea onions, Imbroisi showcases the vibrant tapestry of Calabrian flavors with authenticity and respect.
The restaurant’s atmosphere is equally authentic, evoking the warmth and conviviality of a traditional Italian trattoria. The dimly lit dining room, with its checkered tablecloths and cheerful murals, creates an inviting space for diners to relax and enjoy their meal.
In contrast to Lignac’s pretentious and overpriced establishment, Imbroisi’s Ischia offers a refreshing return to the basics of Italian cuisine. It is a celebration of authentic flavors, generous portions, and warm hospitality.
While Lignac’s tenure at Ischia may have been a disappointment, Denny Imbroisi’s arrival has breathed new life into the restaurant. His commitment to authenticity, combined with his culinary skills and passion for Italian cuisine, has transformed Ischia into a dining destination that finally delivers on the promise of genuine Italian hospitality.