Welcome to Sicily! Here are some tips to help you find some incredible food on your trip–read on to find out the crannies and nooks of this popular vacation spot with a map of Sicily
What’s special about Sicily, anyway?
Sicily has a deep and delicious history of food–with its distinct and diverse populations, the cuisine here is no exception to the rich cultural experience you will observe. Whether you are craving some authentic street food or looking to try something new, you are sure to find something that will delight your tastebuds.
Some initial tips when you’re on the hunt for food–note that dinner typically happens after 8 pm, and don’t be surprised if there is a gap between lunch and dinner hours. With the sweltering summer heat here, a break in the middle of the day is necessary. Slow living is imperative here: with long meals and slower days, you’ve come to the right spot to relax and truly savor every bite.
Here is a list of some traditional Sicilian dishes that you can become acquainted with:
Arancino (or Arancina): A deep-fried ball of risotto rice. Fillings may differ!
Place of Origin: Palermo
Caponata: If you love eggplant, this is the one for you! Chock-full of celery, tomatoes, olives, capers, and pine nuts, this appetizer is the perfect mixture of sweet and sour.
Place of Origin: Catania
Panelle: These vegetarian fritters include chickpeas and are deep-fried until crispy!
Place of Origin: Palermo
Granita con Brioche: If you visit Sicily in the summer, you might see this on the breakfast menu–semi-frozen and refreshing, and served with a fluffy brioche bun.
Place of Origin: Messina
Pistacchio: Renowned for its rich and distinctive flavor, Sicilian pistachios are especially famous from this region.
Place of Origin: Bronte
Marsala Wine: A fortified wine that comes in both sweet and dry varieties, perfect for cooking or sipping.
Place of Origin: Marsala
Sambuca Liquor: A strong, anise-flavored liqueur often enjoyed with coffee beans or water.
Place of Origin: Sambuca
Tomato Pachino: These sweet and juicy tomatoes are perfect for salads and cooking. Place of Origin: Pachino
Sicilian Cannolo: A delicious tube-shaped pastry filled with sweet ricotta cheese.
Place of Origin: Caltanissetta
Now that we’ve given you a little introduction: here are the spots to be on your visit–restaurants, eateries, and places that you will want to return to.
THE spots to be (divided by location)
Here’s a non-exhaustive list of some delicious restaurants and where to find them on your sicilian map
Licata
La Madia: An innovative approach to Sicilian cuisine! If you’re looking for tradition and modernity, look no further.
Trattoria Il Gambero: Fresh seafood with great ambience.
Ragusa Ibla
Duomo: A Michelin-starred restaurant!
Locanda Don Serafino: Culinary heritage is celebrated here. Come here for some sophisticated dining.
The Map of Sicily
Marsala
Il Mulinazzo: Dinner with an ocean view? Say no more (psst: fresh seafood!).
Osteria Il Gallo e l’lnnamorata: A welcoming tavern if you’re looking to experience Sicilian hospitality! Located right in the center of Marsala, this dining experience is one that you’ll remember.
Palermo
Antica Focacceria San Francesco: Street food classics can be found here (they’ve been doing it since 1834!).
Trattoria Trapani da Susanna: Homemade pasta is calling your name here.
Taormina
Ristorante La Capinera: Refined dining! Sicilian specialties can be found here.
Osteria RossoDiVino: If you’re looking to wine and dine in a beautiful environment, check this tavern out.
Siracusa
Osteria dei Sapori Perduti: Locally sourced ingredients make for an authentic and delicious meal.
Ristorante Don Camillo: A picturesque view with picturesque food.
Agrigento
La Cambusa: Seafood takes precedence here, with fresh fish and platters.
Re di Girgenti: located near the Valley of the Temples, their grilled octopus is one to remember! If you’ve ever dreamed of eating with a view of the ancient Greek temples, this is the place for you.
These are just a few of the many places you could visit! Hopefully, this gives you a good idea of where to start.
Where to find other guides
For further assistance and guidance on finding delicious places to eat in Sicily, a quick internet search can go a long way! Apps such as TripAdvisor, Michelin Guide, and OpenTable allow you to look for and bookmark whatever restaurants you might find interesting.
Safe travels–we hope your heart and stomach will be full.
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