Top 6 Places to Eat in Sicily

Written by Alexander Kopp, Marika Maslanka
03/09/2025
Beautiful rocky coastline in Scopello, Sicily, showcasing cliffs and serene sea views.
Josh Withers, Pexels

Sicily's vibrant culinary scene offers a rich blend of historical influences and fresh, local ingredients, providing diverse dining experiences from refined Michelin-starred establishments to bustling street food markets.

1. MEC Restaurant

Cuisine: Modern Sicilian Fine Dining

Nestled within a beautifully restored 16th-century palazzo, MEC Restaurant offers an exceptional dining experience where traditional Sicilian flavors are reimagined with innovative artistry. The ambiance is unique, adorned with vintage Apple memorabilia that merges history with technology. Chef Carmelo Trentacosti crafts refined and balanced dishes, highlighting local ingredients through a multi-course tasting menu. This is a perfect choice for a special occasion, offering a sophisticated culinary journey.

Price: Tasting menus from €100-150 per person, excluding drinks.

Getting There: Located in central Palermo on Via Vittorio Emanuele 452. It is typically within walking distance from many key attractions in the historic center.

2. Sapio Restaurant

Cuisine: Modern Sicilian Fine Dining

Sapio, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Catania, presents a modern reinterpretation of traditional Sicilian cuisine, emphasizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients from the Mount Etna region. The dining experience unfolds in a beautifully restored 16th-century space, which also functions as an art gallery, creating a warm and contemporary atmosphere. Chef Alessandro Ingiulla’s gourmet dishes are celebrated for their innovative flavors and elegant presentation, making it a must-visit for travelers seeking a creative and authentic Sicilian taste.

Price: Tasting menus around €120-150 per person, excluding drinks.

Getting There: Situated in Catania, a few blocks from Teatro Bellini. Most central Catania accommodations will be within walking distance or a short taxi ride.

3. Osteria Antica Marina

Cuisine: Seafood

Located directly within Catania's bustling fish market, La Pescheria, Osteria Antica Marina offers an authentic and vibrant seafood dining experience. This fine restaurant blends traditional Sicilian fish recipes with a modern touch, ensuring the freshest ingredients are used daily. The atmosphere is lively and characteristic, with both indoor and outdoor seating available. Diners can expect artfully presented pasta, fish, and seafood dishes, often recommended by locals as a perfect match to the market environment.

Price: Main courses €20-40. Expect to pay €50-80 per person for a full meal with drinks.

Getting There: Found in the heart of Catania's fish market. Easily accessible on foot from central Catania. Closed on Wednesdays.

4. Trattoria Piccolo Napoli

Cuisine: Traditional Palermitano

Trattoria Piccolo Napoli is a beloved, family-run establishment in Palermo, offering a truly authentic Palermitano dining experience. Operating for over 70 years, it is known for its warm welcome and hearty, honest Sicilian food, reflecting the city's culinary heritage. The focus is on fresh fish, with swordfish marinara and pasta Napoli being popular choices. While slightly off the main tourist path, it provides a glimpse into everyday local life and has even garnered international recognition.

Price: Main courses around €15-25. Expect €30-50 per person for a meal.

Getting There: Located in the Borgo Vecchio area of Palermo. It is a short walk or taxi ride from major central points, but slightly off the main tourist routes.

5. Trattoria Tutti Cca

Cuisine: Traditional Sicilian

Tucked away in a charming side street in Taormina, Trattoria Tutti Cca offers a remarkably picturesque dining setting. Vine leaves drape over old stonework, and tables are adorned with classic red and white gingham tablecloths, creating a romantic and ambient atmosphere. The food is noted for being very tasty, with options like pasta with pork ragu. It's a place where many visitors enjoy the experience so much they return. Reservations are highly recommended due to its popularity.

Price: Main courses €15-30. Expect to pay €30-60 per person for a meal with drinks. (Note: Taormina generally has higher prices).

Getting There: Located on Via Fratelli Ingegnere, 12, in Taormina, hidden up a small side street. It is easily walkable from the main areas of Taormina.

6. Scirocco Sicilian Fish Lab

Cuisine: Sicilian Street Food (Seafood)

Scirocco Sicilian Fish Lab, located in the vibrant Catania fish market, revives the tradition of Sicilian street food with a gourmet twist. This simple yet popular eatery specializes in freshly prepared fried fish and mixed seafood, served in traditional paper cones known as 'coppu'. It’s an ideal spot for a casual, flavorful meal, offering fresh catches directly from the nearby stalls. Beyond fried seafood, you can also find mixed fried vegetables. It is a great place to experience the bustling market atmosphere while enjoying quality, unpretentious seafood.

Price: Under €15 per person for a filling meal.

Getting There: Found at the corner of the Catania fish market. Easily reachable on foot from anywhere in central Catania.

Check out our other pages on Sicily

Things to Do icon Things to Do Getting There icon Getting There Bars and Entertainment icon Bars and Entertainment Hotels icon Hotels Budget Stays icon Budget Stays