It's a shame that Sicily doesn't get enough credit as a foodie destination. Most people only focus on Bologna or Rome, perhaps even Milan or Venice regarding culinary excellence. True, those places have much to offer, but there's also Sicily! Not only does this island have its own cuisine, but it's also a treasure trove of excellent restaurants. Just check out Canni e Pisci, La Galleria, Mama Caura, or Villa Zuccaro to understand. One visit to any one of these hotspots and you'll instantly want to come back for more. Their food is excellent, their ambiances are perfect, and their vibes are stellar. What more could you ask for?
Canni e Pisci
Canni e Pisci is literally translated into English as “Meat and Fish.” So right off the bat, you already know what to expect from this popular hotspot in Catania. Located on the ground floor of Palazzo Biscari, the laid-back and chill vibe of the place is far from the grandeur and opulence of the palace. But the food itself is pretty rich. A healthy mix of Sicilian cuisine with touches of foreign influences, the menu goes beyond the standard meat and fish. For instance, you never would've expected tempura to be among this place's bestsellers, but there is a definite must-try!
Source: Canni & Pisci Meat & Fish Facebook Page
Caseificio Borderi
Sicily in Italy isn't exactly the first place that pops into your head when you think of tapas. Since it's a Spanish delicacy, you'd sooner think of Andalucía, its place of origin, or even the stand-out
tapas bars in Fuengirola, Barcelona, Seville, and more. But Sicily? Well, if you know about Caseificio Borderi in Syracuse, you'd understand why! This place serves the most scrumptious tapas on the island. They can make the simplest combinations, such as salami & cheese, and turn them into haute cuisine! Of course, you shouldn't miss out on ther paninis as well!
Source: Caseificio Borderi Facebook Page
Il Sale
Il Sale is a high-class restaurant in the town of Catania in Sicily. Just how high-class is it? Well, let's just say that the prices here can almost rival those of a
Michelin-starred restaurant in Rome. But is every cent worth it here? You bet it is! From its authentic menu of Sicilian and Mediterranean dishes to its delectable desserts, Il Sale offers a high-quality culinary experience you won't ever forget. One slice of their well-made pizza is enough to have you coming back for more. As are their shrimp carpaccio and veal tartare. And for dessert? Some pistachio lava cake will do you some good!
Source: Il Sale
La Galleria
It's easy to overlook La Galleria considering its location. Situated on a street behind the Palermo Cathedral, this isn't exactly the kind of place you'd stumble upon. It's more so the kind that you'd go to thanks to a recommendation. And when you do check the place out, you'll feel lucky that you discovered it! After all, La Galleria is a mecca for authentic Sicilian cuisine. If you truly want to taste the true flavors of the island, you couldn't have picked a better place. From its seasonal offerings to its fresh homegrown ingredients, take your taste buds on a Sicilian adventure they (and you) will always remember!
Source: La Galleria Facebook Page
Mama Caura
Located between two towns in Sicily, Trapani & Marsala, Mamma Caura is a coastal restaurant where the ambiance is everything. The place is practically in the middle of nowhere, surrounded by nothing but salt pans and the mountains on the horizon. As such, it's the perfect restaurant in Sicily for a romantic date, and you'd do well to take your partner here in the afternoon. Why? Because the sunset from Mamma Caura is second to none. It's arguably even more beautiful than from any coast the island has to offer. And as for the food, enjoy their
different types of pasta, scrumptious seafood, and homemade white wine!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Re del Sole
Is it safe to say that Re del Sole is one of the finest restaurants in Sicily? Yes, it is! Located by the coast of Taormina, one of the most beautiful
towns in Sicily, the place is as much a feast for the eyes as are the dishes they serve. It's right smack beside the beach, offering a fantastic view and a coastal ambiance that has made the Mediterranean the popular destination it is today. And when it comes to their menu, it's all about the fresh seafood specialties! Think grilled swordfish rolls, anchovy pasta, or mussel soup with a tomato base. They all sound incredible, don't they?
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Re di Girgenti
Sicilian cuisine is all well and good, but what if you're craving something different? Say, some Greek food, perhaps? Are there any restaurants in Sicily that serve that? The answer is yes, there are. And arguably the best of them all is Re di Girgenti in Agrigento. Fairly near the famous “Valley of The Temples” archeological site, this hotspot further proves that Greek influence is alive and well on this large Mediterranean island. With Greek ruins in sight and Greek food served at your table, you'd sooner think you were in Crete or Kefalonia or something!
Source: Re di Girgenti
Villa Zuccaro
Now, if you're craving some pizza, look no further than Villa Zuccaro in Taormina. Ask many locals about the best pizzeria in Sicily and a good number of the will mention this place. What's great about it is that they don't just do the classics. The chefs here are courageous enough to experiment with different flavors, combinations of toppings, and more. They push the envelope enough to tantalize the taste buds of their customers, but they also rely on the classics for those who just want a good slice of pizza.
Source: Villa Zuccaro Taormina Facebook Page
Foodies have nothing to worry about when they go to Sicily. The island has its fair share of excellent restaurants. They serve such delicious delicacies and have the perfect ambiances to enjoy the unique and flavorful cuisines they offer.