Messina reflects the dream of chef Mauricio Giovanini, who has explored beyond his Argentinian roots to develop his unique, non-conformist culinary style, ably supported by his wife (PÍa Ninci) in her role as sommelier and front-of-house manager. Their reward, in this modern, updated space with a kitchen overlooking the dining room, is a clientele that is tremendously loyal. On his tasting menus, Giovanini strives for harmony and clear individual flavours through a focus on cuisine inspired by both Europe and Latin America. The unique nature of this chef stems from his observation that flavour resides in the liquid part of foods, hence his use of pure juices and their by-products (concentrates, creams etc) that are a key part of his culinary concept. Today, he continues in the same vein, although he now shows much more interest in natural thickening agents. He also has a multi-purpose R&D space called InsIDe Messina, that can also be booked by guests.