€€€Sicilian, Contemporary
This restaurant has moved from its previous location in central Torregrotta to a more secluded setting slightly above the town centre, where it aims to offer its guests an even better dining experience. The owner-chef has more than achieved this, serving excellent Sicilian dishes reinterpreted with careful precision and a contemporary twist. A good wine list completes the picture.
€€€Creative, Contemporary
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.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.2/5 · 80 reviews
Marina del Nettuno in Villa San Giovanni offers creative contemporary cuisine with stunning Strait of Messina views. Reviews highlight its elegant atmosphere, professional service, and high-quality ingredients, particularly noting the fish burger and Sicilian sparkling wines. However, some guests criticized inconsistent food quality, citing flavor imbalances and limited menu options like non-à-la-carte dining. While the ambiance and staff receive praise, culinary execution varies. It suits travelers seeking a sophisticated setting for socializing, though those prioritizing consistent gastronomic excellence may find the experience mixed.
Ideal for travelers valuing scenic views and social ambiance, though those expecting consistent culinary excellence should manage expectations.
€€€Seafood, Classic Cuisine
Fish specialities take pride of place on the menu of this elegant, contemporary - style restaurant with friendly, informal service. Good selection of wines, also available by the glass.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.0/5 · 80 reviews
Doppio Gusto in Milazzo is a seafood restaurant praised for its classic cuisine and fresh ingredients. Guests frequently highlight the high quality of fish, crunchy shrimp, and delicate stuffed squid. Service receives mixed feedback; while many appreciate attentive and fast staff, others report slow responses and poor attitude. The ambiance is described as elegant and welcoming. However, value for money is a significant concern, with several reviewers citing high prices and small portions as unjustified, despite some finding the experience worth the cost.
Suitable for diners seeking high-quality seafood and an elegant atmosphere, though price-sensitive guests should proceed with caution.
€€Calabrian, Contemporary
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
€€Seafood, Modern Cuisine
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.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.5/5 · 80 reviews
Located in Catona, L'A Gourmet L'Accademia is a Michelin-listed modern seafood restaurant praised for its fresh ingredients and technical precision. Guests appreciate the elegant atmosphere within a historic building, offering views of the strait, alongside professional and friendly service. Chef Filippo Cogliandro is noted for his culinary skill and social commitment. However, experiences vary; some diners report issues with meal pacing, undercooked rice, or bland flavors, particularly in dishes like tuna tartare. While many find the quality remarkable, others feel the high bill does not justify the experience, citing unmet expectations regarding taste intensity and value for money.
Suitable for diners seeking refined seafood and elegant sea views, though reasonable expectations regarding flavor intensity and value are advised.
€€Seafood, Mediterranean Cuisine
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.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.4/5 · 80 reviews
De Gustibus - Maurizio in Palmi specializes in Mediterranean seafood. Reviews highlight fresh ingredients, exquisite dishes, and professional service in a welcoming atmosphere. However, negative feedback points to inconsistent meal pacing, poor service management, and perceived low value. While overall ratings are high, experiences vary significantly, with some diners noting inefficiencies during busy periods.
Suitable for diners seeking high-quality seafood and a comfortable atmosphere, preferably avoiding peak hours for smoother service.
€€€€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.
€€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.
€€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.
€€italian
Opened in 1910, this historic restaurant with an attractive shaded outdoor pergola serves an extensive array of delicious local fish prepared in traditional recipes. Enjoy a selection of typical Sicilian specialities prepared by the Bernardi family, including the highly recommended “Nonno Filippino” fish soup.
TripAdvisor review sample · 3.7/5 · 80 reviews
Filippino, located near Lipari's center, offers stunning views and an elegant atmosphere. Service is frequently praised for its professionalism and attentiveness, with specific staff members highlighted for their discretion and kindness. Food quality receives mixed reviews; while some diners enjoy fresh seafood like cuttlefish and grilled scorpion fish, others criticize portions as small and dishes like squid ink risotto as pre-cooked or mediocre. Although the ambiance and service are strong points, value is a significant concern. Many guests feel the prices are excessively high relative to the portion sizes and overall dining experience, leading to perceptions of the restaurant being overpriced or catering primarily to tourists rather than delivering consistent culinary excellence.
Suitable for diners prioritizing ambiance and service over value, but not recommended for budget-conscious travelers seeking large portions.
€€Sicilian, Modern Cuisine
Overlooking the piazza for almost 50 years, this restaurant has been modernised but has nonetheless managed to retain its friendly ambience, especially in the outdoor space facing the narrow alleyway. The owner-chef serves regional specialities reinterpreted with his own individual twist, such as his famous swordfish rolls served in a type of pie.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.4/5 · 80 reviews
Trattoria del Vicolo is situated in a charming, plant-lined alley in Lipari, offering a romantic and distinctive ambiance. Reviews frequently highlight professional, warm service, with staff noted for attentiveness and special touches like birthday celebrations. The cuisine blends traditional Sicilian flavors with modern creativity, utilizing fresh local ingredients, though some guests found main courses inconsistent in quality or texture. While many appreciate the balanced portions and delicious desserts, others criticize the pacing and value for money. Although the atmosphere and service are highly rated, opinions on pricing vary, with some finding it fair and others considering it slightly high. It suits travelers seeking authentic local dining in a scenic setting, provided expectations regarding consistency and cost are managed.
Ideal for visitors seeking a romantic alleyway setting and authentic Sicilian flavors, with a note to manage expectations regarding consistency.
€€€€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.
€€€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, 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.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.6/5 · 54 reviews
Located in Giarre, Casu Osteria Contemporanea specializes in modern Sicilian cuisine. Reviews frequently praise the high food quality, highlighting fresh ingredients and precise flavors in dishes like caponata and pasta alla Norma. The atmosphere is described as warm, refined, and detail-oriented. Service is generally professional and welcoming, though some guests note issues with meal pacing, overly attentive staff, or initial aloofness. Despite isolated complaints regarding value and service consistency, the restaurant maintains an impressive 4.6/5 rating, offering a reliable and high-standard culinary experience.
Ideal for diners seeking high-quality modern Sicilian cuisine who can overlook occasional service inconsistencies.
€€regional
Fish plays the starring role here, where the authentic traditional flavours and ingredients of Aeolian cuisine are skilfully interpreted with a touch of imaginative flair. If it’s not too hot to sit outside, ask for a table on the pleasant, shaded terrace on the first floor.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.5/5 · 80 reviews
Located in Santa Marina Salina, Nni Lausta holds a 4.5/5 average from 80 reviews. Food quality is the primary strength, with diners praising the blend of tradition and creativity, particularly the Aeolian-style rabbit, ceviche, and local pasta dishes. However, service consistency is a major concern. While some guests experienced friendly and welcoming staff, others reported rude behavior, lack of preparation, and language barriers. The atmosphere is generally described as elegant yet relaxed, though isolated complaints mention a cold ambiance and poor organization in rear areas. Value is occasionally questioned due to service issues. Ultimately, the culinary excellence is offset by variable hospitality standards.
Suitable for diners prioritizing innovative local cuisine, but be prepared for inconsistent service.