Sa Cardiga e Su Schironi

The story

Sa Cardiga e Su Schironi – La Maddalena, Italy

A restaurant of the sea

Sa Cardiga e Su Schironi sits on the beach of La Maddalena, in the municipality of Capoterra, just west of Cagliari. The name itself tells the story: “a cardiga” is the Sardinian word for the charcoal grill, and “su schironi” refers to the skewers that waiters carry through the dining room. Inside, the rooms are furnished in a nautical style, with mahogany boiserie and marine ropes lining the walls. A terrace overlooks the water, and in summer a small outdoor area opens for al fresco dining. A kids’ club operates on Sundays. In the lobby, an old “cio” – a traditional lagoon boat – has been transformed into a display case where guests choose the catch of the day.

The kitchen

The cooking is built on simplicity. The product comes first, grilled over charcoal. The menu changes daily based on what the fishermen bring in. Dishes follow regional tradition: “Sa Burrida” (dogfish in vinegar and Cannonau), tuna raw or boiled, fresh tagliatelle with sea urchins and mullet bottarga, Sardinian lobster dressed with oil, lemon, and crustacean eggs, raw shellfish, and the catch of the day with Vernaccia di Oristano. Cheeses include matured pecorino grilled with honey, goat cheese, and “su callu”, served with house jams. Desserts range from “seadas” to warm ricotta ravioli and a crunchy semifreddo with honey and filuferru. Tasting menus are available.

The cellar

Sardinia’s wine scene is well represented: Vermentino, Cannonau, Carignano, and native varieties like Grenazza di Mamoiada and Cagnulari. The restaurant also holds a wide selection of Italian greats – Barolo, Brunello di Montalcino – and international bottles, with a focus on French oenology. A nitrogen-powered Enomatic system allows guests to taste fine wines by the glass without compromising quality.

The restaurant has earned a Michelin Recommended distinction, a recognition of its unwavering commitment to simple, authentic Sardinian seafood.