Casa Chiara

Although travellers may know Villa San Giovanni for its ferry port to Sicily, fans of gourmet cuisine are familiar with the port as the home of the “Vecchio Porto”, one of the best restaurants in the region and one which boasts spectacular views of the Straits of Messina from its second-floor terrace. The menu features classic dishes including fish cooked on the grill and more imaginative options such as the raw antipasti (snapper flavoured with sea-urchin sauce, lumpfish roe, onion and diced cucumber). The remarkable quality of the fish is a constant theme here.

A captivating journey through the wild countryside and olive groves of Aspromonte serves as a prelude to an almost mystical experience at Qafiz, where Chef Nino Rossi tells the story of Calabria and its roots through an instinctive, profound, and remarkably accomplished cuisine. Guests are seated around a small kitchen in omakase style, embarking on an immersive gastronomic journey supported by an impeccable wine selection and service that keeps the energy of the moment alive. For those wishing to fully immerse themselves in the spirit of the place, Casa Qafiz offers the possibility of an inti

As its name suggests, this restaurant and lounge bar is situated right on the jetty of the Yachting Club Messina. Elegant and minimalist - style decor, as well as creative cuisine with a focus on fish dishes.

Simple, modern fish dishes full of flavour take centre stage at this family-run restaurant in the charming historic centre of Palmi. The raw fish dishes served here include a delicious carpaccio made with the catch of the day and seasoned with a delicate home-made vinaigrette and cherry tomatoes, while the “Intrusi” menu offers three or four meat options for non-fish eaters. Desserts are announced at your table and always include a delicious cannolo. The wine list features mainly Italian labels, as well as a choice of champagnes. An intimate and warmly recommended restaurant.

As the name suggests, this restaurant is divided into two sections: a shop on one side, which sells local products such as tempting salumi and cheeses (they also serve informal lunches at midday); and on the other, in the evening, an attractive bistro with wooden tables and soft lighting, where you can enjoy delicious cuisine. Among the fish dishes (aged on site), we particularly recommend the grouper fillet with vegetable caponatina and raw scampi on a bed of mashed potato, while the meat options include top-quality cuts such as Wagyu beef. A small outdoor space on the pavement completes the

From the restaurant on the first floor (no lift) of this early 20C building, you’ll enjoy fine views of the sea and the Strait of Messina. Here, skilled chef Filippo Cogliardo prepares fish-based dishes which include classic recipes (raw seafood) as well as more modern options (amberjack, red turnip with honey, fennel mayonnaise and lime gel). A few meat dishes also feature on the menu.