€€€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, 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
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
€€€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.
€€€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.