€€Seafood
Situated next to the hotel of the same name (a reference to the Faraglioni islands just off the coast here) but with its own entrance, this restaurant overlooks the beautiful Riviera dei Ciclopi. Sicilian ingredients take pride of place here in traditional and creative dishes with a focus on fish and seafood (vegetarian options are also available).
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.4/5 · 80 reviews
Located in Acitrezza, Faraglioni is a Michelin-rated seafood restaurant praised for its spectacular views, creative cuisine, and attentive service. Guests frequently highlight the excellent wine list and the immersive dining atmosphere. However, reviews are mixed regarding value and consistency; some diners report issues with overly salty or overpowering flavors, while others criticize the high cost relative to portion sizes. While the overall rating is strong at 4.4/5, experiences vary significantly depending on the specific dishes ordered and the occasion.
Ideal for diners seeking refined seaside ambiance and creative seafood, with prior menu preference confirmation advised.
€€€Contemporary, Sicilian
In the baroque heart of the city, this small restaurant – comprising two dining rooms, one overlooking the bell tower of the Basilica Collegiata dei Santi Apostoli Pietro e Paolo, the other more intimate – welcomes guests with a contemporary style and cozy atmosphere. The cooking takes a modern and bold approach, offered either à la carte or through two tasting menus that trace journeys of travel and inspiration by way of forthright and intriguing flavours. To then end the meal with a touch of lightness thanks to the playful ‘tiratisù’. Here, you are not simply clients, but guests.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.7/5 · 80 reviews
Alloro in Acireale offers contemporary Sicilian cuisine with a strong reputation for high food quality, elegant modern ambiance, and attentive service. Many diners describe the experience as a cohesive sensory journey, praising the refined flavors and thoughtful presentation. However, some reviews highlight issues with meal pacing, noting long waits between courses. A minority of guests expressed dissatisfaction with value for money, citing disproportionate prices and occasional lack of flavor, alongside complaints about booking discounts. While the majority of feedback is positive, potential visitors should be aware of possible delays in service timing.
Ideal for diners seeking a refined sensory experience and elegant ambiance, though those sensitive to pacing should proceed with caution.
€€€Seafood
The phrase “macellaria di mare” translates as “fish and seafood butcher’s”, a reference to the cured and seasoned fish that features on the menu here. The restaurant has recently changed the way that guests order – you now make your way to your table in a simple yet attractive dining room with an open-view kitchen, where you choose from three tasting menus and à la carte. Our advice is to give young chef Alberto Angiolucci free rein!
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.5/5 · 68 reviews
Located in Catania, Angiò-Macelleria di Mare offers an innovative 'fish butcher' concept. Reviews generally praise the freshness of raw materials, technical execution, and Chef Alberto's artistic approach, recommending the tasting menu or signature dishes like 'spaghettino ncastagnato'. The atmosphere is described as unique and professional, with generally friendly service. However, some critics note chaotic environments, imbalanced flavors, and excessive experimentation that may overshadow the seafood. Value for money is debated, with some finding portions too small relative to expectations.
Suitable for diners seeking unique, innovative seafood experiences who accept experimental flavors.
€€€Sicilian, Contemporary
Situated behind Acireale at the foot of Mount Etna National Park, this restaurant is located within the Relais San Giuliano. Deceptively uninteresting from the outside, this historic building and its inner courtyards boast a charm and grandeur that will take your breath away. A huge 16C wine press provides the backdrop for fine cuisine that is more than equal to its impressive setting. Here, the menu makes full use of vegetables and other Sicilian ingredients in dishes that are influenced by the island’s culinary traditions yet reinterpreted with a skilful contemporary twist by the chef.
€€€Creative, Sicilian
This minimalist-style restaurant is home to one of the most interesting young chefs in Catania. In this historic building with beautiful ceilings, enjoy top-quality Sicilian cuisine created by Manuel Tropea, who focuses in particular on specialities from Catania which he interprets in a highly personalised way with a real focus on tradition. Dishes such as “L’Asina e la lattuga” and “Good morning in Catania” are good examples. The chef’s surprise menu takes guests on a culinary journey full of contrasts which is inspired by his own memories and experiences.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.8/5 · 80 reviews
Concezione Restaurant in Catania offers creative Sicilian cuisine. Most reviews praise the refined atmosphere, attentive service, and high-quality ingredients, with some noting inventive presentations and generous portions. However, negative feedback highlights issues with meal pacing, describing dinners as interminable. A minority of critics found flavors clashing or dishes inedible, questioning the value relative to the price point. While the ambiance and service are consistently rated highly, inconsistencies in food quality and pacing create a mixed experience. It suits diners seeking a unique, elegant setting who prioritize atmosphere and service over consistent culinary execution.
Suitable for diners prioritizing atmosphere and service who are open to experimental cuisine despite potential inconsistencies.
€€Sicilian, Modern Cuisine
The entrance to this restaurant is typical of an old residential-style building, giving the impression that you are stepping into the chef’s own home. Here, the beautiful dining room boasts shared tables and an entire wall covered with shelves of jars containing dried fruit, pumpkin seeds and red lentils. The classic-style cuisine focuses on grilled dishes and modern cooking methods to create typical Sicilian meat and fish dishes that pay careful attention to the seasons. The first courses are excellent, including the spaghetti with butter and anchovies, which is served with Favignana tuna bot
€€Sicilian, Contemporary
Situated in the heart of the city near the Teatro Bellini and Piazza Università, this restaurant occupies an Art Nouveau-style building. Here, a trio of experienced young chefs from Catania have brought new life to the old “Da Turi Finocchiaro” restaurant, which has always been very popular with the city’s high society. Offering a small outdoor space near the entrance, the quiet, intimate dining room on the ground floor provides the backdrop for reinterpreted, contemporary Sicilian cuisine with an exclusive focus on meat (especially barbecued dishes which are the restaurant’s trademark), while
€€€Sicilian, Modern Cuisine
Generous Sicilian specialities reinterpreted with imagination and prepared using top-quality produce from the hotel’s orchards and vegetable garden, all beautifully presented in contemporary style, take centre stage here. There’s an extensive choice of meat and fish dishes showcased on tasting menus and an à la carte, which can be enjoyed either in the elegant dining room or on the attractive outdoor terrace shaded by palm trees. Courteous and professional service completes the picture.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.4/5 · 80 reviews
Located in San Leonardello, La Cucina di Donna Carmela offers modern Sicilian cuisine. Most reviews praise the refined dishes, attentive service, and elegant garden atmosphere, noting a successful reinterpretation of traditional flavors. However, negative feedback highlights inconsistent food quality, including poorly prepared items and lack of seasoning. Some guests reported discrepancies between the online menu and actual offerings, along with inadequate handling of dietary requirements. While the setting is generally appreciated, a minority of experiences were marred by service lapses and perceived poor value, resulting in mixed overall impressions.
Suitable for diners seeking refined modern Sicilian cuisine in an elegant setting, but verify menu details and dietary accommodations in advance.
€€€Creative, Sicilian
Situated on the slope of Mt Etna, Sabir takes its name from an old dialect once in use in the ports of the Mediterranean as a means of communication between sea merchants. The recipes created by chef Seby Sorbello demonstrate the same blend of influences, showcasing a fusion of flavours and aromas from the Ionic coast and sea, with a focus on seasonal ingredients and wild herbs from this volcanic region. Choose from a selection of tasting menus and à la carte options.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.4/5 · 80 reviews
Sabir in Zafferana Etnea offers creative Sicilian cuisine praised for ingredient quality and technical execution. Guests highlight the chef's creativity, allergy accommodations, and cozy courtyard atmosphere. However, service consistency varies, with complaints regarding slow response times and rushed pacing. Some diners find the menu limited for intolerances and question the value for money despite high food standards. While the culinary experience is generally excellent, service reliability remains a point of contention among reviewers.
Suitable for diners seeking high-quality creative cuisine who can tolerate inconsistent service.
€€Sicilian, Modern Cuisine
Situated on Giarre’s main street, this small, simple restaurant has just a few tables and an informal atmosphere. The menu offers a small selection of reasonably priced dishes with a focus on Sicilian cuisine made from top-quality ingredients that guarantee delicious flavours.
€€€Contemporary, Sicilian
Situated in the village centre surrounded by narrow alleyways, this attractive restaurant is housed in an old barrel warehouse. Here, self-taught chef Massimiliano Vasta serves colourful cuisine that is full of delicious flavours, showcased on two tasting menus and an impressive à la carte with an equal emphasis on meat and fish (despite the port being just a stone’s throw away). We focused on the main course and particularly enjoyed the Zuppa di Pietro, an updated version of the chef’s father’s favourite dish, as well as the tempting array of tasty welcome snacks. There’s an impressive wine l
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.6/5 · 80 reviews
Located in Riposto, Vico Astemio is recognized for contemporary Sicilian cuisine and its Michelin star. Reviews frequently praise the high quality of fresh ingredients, exquisite plating, and innovative flavors, particularly highlighting arancini and raw courses. The atmosphere is described as historic yet comfortable, with generally attentive and professional service. However, some guests report issues with meal pacing, value for money, and inconsistent food quality, noting that prices may be high relative to the experience. While many find it a delightful discovery, others feel it falls short of expectations. It suits diners seeking refined, creative dining, though patience regarding service timing is advised.
Ideal for diners seeking refined, creative cuisine and an elegant atmosphere, with managed expectations for service pacing.
€€Sicilian, Meats and Grills
On the slopes of "a muntagna," one of the respectful nicknames for the volcano in the area, just outside the town with ample private parking, you'll find a family-oriented setting offering predominantly meat dishes, fresh pasta, and mushrooms. The dishes are carefully prepared, with generous portions, and meals are always enjoyed in a lovely glass-enclosed veranda. The wine list focuses mainly on Sicilian and particularly Catanese selections.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.2/5 · 80 reviews
Da Rinuccio in Milo offers Sicilian cuisine and grills set against Mount Etna. Reviews highlight fresh ingredients and a balance of traditional and creative dishes. The ambiance is praised as cozy with scenic views. Service is generally courteous, though some note inconsistent pacing, rude staff, or strict pet policies. A few guests find the value low due to high prices. While most enjoy family-friendly meals, occasional service issues may detract from the experience.
Ideal for families seeking Etna views and traditional food; verify service details beforehand.
€€€€Modern Cuisine, Creative
The scenery that you drive through to get to this restaurant on the slopes of Mt Etna is as breathtaking and impressive as the charming luxury Villa Neri hotel in which it is housed. In the modern dining room, the chef serves personalised cuisine with a focus on Sicilian ingredients, resulting in occasionally complex dishes (meat and fish) which are showcased on his tasting menus. Guests can also choose dishes à la carte style, while the wine list includes an excellent and highly recommended selection of local Etna labels, including the property’s own wine (they also produce their own extra-vi
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.8/5 · 71 reviews
Dodici Fontane in Linguaglossa offers modern creative cuisine with exceptional ratings. Food quality is highly praised, particularly the 'earth' tasting menu featuring lemon, which highlights Etna's local flavors. Service is professional and attentive, with chefs often explaining dishes and accommodating children. The elegant, quiet ambiance offers beautiful views of the Etna territory. While a few reviews note that some dishes may not fully reflect traditional Catanese cuisine or suggest pacing issues, most guests find the experience worthwhile and memorable.
Ideal for diners seeking refined modern cuisine, scenic Etna views, and attentive service.
€€Farm to table, Seafood
This restaurant began life in 1946 as a grocery store (the name is the Sicilian word for shop) which, forty years later, was transformed into a very simple yet attractive trattoria-cum-wine bar (don’t be shocked by the paper tablecloths!). The cuisine focuses mainly on fish, seafood and fresh market produce, while the wines come from Sicily and further afield. Booking ahead is essential here, partly because there are only a few tables but also because the opening hours vary depending on the season. You may find it difficult to find somewhere to park between the main street and the seafront in
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.7/5 · 80 reviews
Located in Giardini Naxos, À Putia - Enoteca e Cucina focuses on farm-to-table and seafood offerings. Based on 80 reviews averaging 4.7/5, guests frequently praise the fresh ingredients, flavorful fish dishes, and handmade pasta. The atmosphere is described as welcoming and typically Sicilian, with friendly and professional service and a wide wine selection. However, some negative feedback highlights issues with meal pacing, occasional language barriers, and mixed opinions on value. Overall, the restaurant is highly regarded for its quality cuisine and cozy ambiance, making it a solid choice for travelers seeking authentic dining experiences.
Suitable for travelers prioritizing fresh ingredients, handmade pasta, and authentic Sicilian flavors.
€€Modern Cuisine
Housed in the 15C Casa Cipolla, with a romantic terrace for summer dining, Kistè is a treasure trove of gourmet Sicilian cuisine prepared in contemporary style.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.1/5 · 80 reviews
Located in Castelmola, Kisté offers modern gourmet cuisine. Most guests praise the high food quality, professional service, and charming garden atmosphere, particularly recommending the multi-course tasting menus with wine pairings. Ingredients are fresh, and the chef's skills are highlighted. However, some reviews note inconsistencies in service, bland dishes, or pacing issues. Negative feedback also cites strict cancellation policies with significant penalties and occasional lack of attention to special occasions. While the culinary experience is generally exceptional, diners should be aware of the rigid booking terms and varying service standards.
Ideal for diners seeking high-quality modern cuisine and an elegant setting, provided they review the strict cancellation policy beforehand.
€€€€Modern Cuisine
A magnificent location directly in a gazebo where you can count the waves breaking on the beach, but in case of bad weather, there’s also an equally intimate and elegant indoor dining room available. Pampered by attentive and exceptionally kind service, follow the chef’s creations along tasting journeys, including vegetarian options, or à la carte dishes from both land and sea, always served with great aesthetic taste, often built on local products crafted with contemporary and colorful sensibility. In short, enjoy the complete experience that two hours in this exclusive corner of Sicily will
TripAdvisor review sample · 5.0/5 · 80 reviews
Blum, located by the Mazzaro Sea in Taormina, offers a refined modern dining experience with stunning terrace views. Based on 80 reviews averaging 5.0/5, guests consistently praise the exceptional food quality, impeccable service, and charming atmosphere. Diners highlight the creativity and balance of the tasting menus, noting specific items like donkey fillet and ricotta dessert. While a minority cited issues with meal pacing or overly sweet desserts, the overwhelming consensus describes the experience as superb, with staff described as empathetic and professional. The restaurant is highly regarded for its romantic setting and culinary excellence, often compared favorably to other starred establishments.
Ideal for diners seeking a romantic seaside evening and high-quality modern cuisine.
€€Contemporary
Young chef Graziano Accolla has returned to his native city where he serves creative cuisine of the highest quality, while at the same time raising Augusta’s gastronomic profile. Thanks to his experience in Michelin-starred restaurants, he offers highly interesting dishes which focus on the use of top-quality ingredients.
€€€Meats and Grills, Sicilian
Italian
€€€italian
Italian
€€€Modern Cuisine
Italian