By Erica Corsano
This July, Il Mulino New York invites guests to escape to the sun-drenched coasts of Southern Europe—without ever leaving the table. The acclaimed restaurant’s new Mediterranean Summer Menu, crafted by Executive Chef Michele Mazza, is a tribute to coastal flavors, fresh ingredients, and the art of refined simplicity.
Available for a limited time, the $58 prix-fixe menu offers a seasonal journey through the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean. Dishes draw on Chef Mazza’s roots on Italy’s Amalfi Coast, while also incorporating Greek-inspired touches that honor the broader region.
“It’s summertime—people want food that’s light, fresh, and full of flavor,” says Chef Mazza. “This menu was designed to reflect that feeling.”
A Seasonal Celebration
The menu opens with dishes like Zuppa di Melone, a chilled Crenshaw melon soup accented with mint, yogurt, and crispy prosciutto. Bright and refreshing, it’s a bold departure from traditional starters—and a celebration of ripe, seasonal fruit. Another standout is the Greek Grilled Octopus, served with Campari tomatoes and black olives—a nod to classic Greek seaside fare with Il Mulino’s signature Italian finesse.
Pasta courses shine as always, including the elegant Spaghetti alla Nerano, a silky zucchini-forward dish finished with aged Parmigiano, and Tagliolini al Limone, tossed with lemon zest, basil, rock shrimp, and more of that rich 24-month aged cheese. For Mazza, this lemon-laced pasta is the star of the summer menu.
“It reminds me of home,” he says. “We use real lemons from Sorrento, and the flavor is just so vibrant and clean. To me, it tastes like the Amalfi Coast in July.”
Unexpected Pairings
For the main course, Risotto alle Fragole surprises and delights. Prepared with farm-fresh strawberries and finished in a Prosecco sauce, it’s an elegant twist on a classic that captures the sweetness of the season without being cloying.
“Some guests might hesitate when they see strawberries in a risotto,” Mazza admits with a smile. “But once they try it, they’re usually amazed. The flavors balance beautifully—it’s light, a little fruity, but still rich and satisfying.”
Mediterranean Philosophy, Florida Fresh
While the menu is deeply rooted in Mediterranean traditions, local sourcing plays an important role. “We work with several fantastic farms here in Florida,” says Mazza. “You can really taste the difference—lettuces, mushrooms, strawberries, tomatoes. That farm-fresh quality is essential to this kind of cooking.”
One of the menu’s secret weapons is the exclusive use of lemons imported directly from Sorrento, Italy. “They have a unique aroma and acidity,” he explains. “When I use them, I know I’m bringing a piece of my home to the plate.”
A Multi-Sensory Escape
Desserts like creamy rice pudding or delicate apple strudel round out the experience, offering a sweet and satisfying finish. Guests can pair their courses with a curated selection of Mediterranean wines or classic spritzes for the full summer escape.
“I want our guests to feel like they’ve been transported—to Greece, to Italy, to the whole Mediterranean,” Mazza says. “Even just for an evening.”
With only a few weeks to savor the menu, Il Mulino’s Mediterranean Summer offering is a culinary getaway not to be missed—where every bite is infused with sunshine, salt air, and the essence of summer.