Best Restaurants in Catania: Ultimate Guide to Traditional Sicilian Food & More

Sicily is the island of sunshine and great food! If you’re visiting Catania, it would be a sin not to try the delicacies of local Sicilian cuisine. Many visitors are delighted by Catania’s culinary treasures, and I’d like to share with you my favourite restaurants in the heart of Catania, where you can truly enjoy an exceptional meal.

There are already plenty of articles discussing Sicilian dishes, so instead, I’ll highlight a few recommended restaurants worth visiting. Plus, I’ll cover some important dining customs in Sicily so you know what to expect.

If you’re looking for tips on where to eat affordably in Catania, check out my article: Where to Eat Cheaply in Catania – A Budget – Friendly Guide to Delicious Local Spots.

Lunch and Dinner in Sicilian Restaurants: Hours and Customs

Coperto: In most restaurants, you’ll find a small fee (€2-4 per person) added to your bill. This is called “coperto,” covering table service. It’s not a tip, and even if you don’t order anything but sit at a table, you’ll still be charged for it.

Tipping: Tipping is uncommon in Sicily, so there’s no pressure to leave one. However, if you’d like to show appreciation for good service or excellent food, tips are always welcome.

Vino Locale: Many restaurants offer both bottled wine and local house wine, typically served in carafes (0.25L, 0.5L, or 1L). It’s cheaper than bottled wine, but quality can vary. If you’re a wine enthusiast, opt for bottled wine starting at €20.

Prices: Catania offers both cheap and more expensive dining options. Be cautious of overly cheap restaurants, as the costs of food, labour, and rent are high here.

Italian Dishes: Dishes like carbonara, lasagne, and bolognese are popular, but they aren’t part of Sicilian cuisine. They’re often made for tourists, so try local specialities instead!

Opening Hours: Restaurants in Sicily follow a specific schedule. Lunch (pranzo) is served from 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM, and dinner (cena) from 7:30 PM to 11:00 PM. Between 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM, many restaurants close as they prepare for the evening service.

Traditional Sicilian and Italian Cuisine

1. Trattoria da Mario  
  • Address: Via Crociferi, Catania, Italy  
  • Description: Traditional Catanian cuisine. Try the antipasto with various local specialities and the hearty meat dishes. Prices: €15-20 per person.
2. La Pentolaccia
  • Address: Via Coppola, Catania, Italy  
  • Description: A classic Sicilian restaurant serving meat and fish. Ask for a table in the courtyard during summer. Prices from €25 for an appetiser, main course, and wine.
3. Trattoria di De Fiore (del Forestiero)
  • Address: Via Coppola, Catania, Italy  
  • Description: A family-run trattoria known for homemade pasta. Prices: €15 per person for a main dish and local wine.
4. La Terrazza Del Barone
  • Address: Via Lago di Nicito, Catania, Italy  
  • Description: Specialising in Catanian meat dishes, this restaurant offers affordable prices.
5. Cortile Alessi
  • Address: Via Alessi, Catania, Italy  
  • Description: A charming spot with a courtyard serving pizza, pasta, and cocktails. Prices: €15 for pizza and beer.
6. A Putia Dell’Ostello
  • Address: Piazza Currò, Catania, Italy  
  • Description: Overlooking the underground Amenano River, this restaurant serves couscous, pizza, and more. Prices: €20 for a dish and beer.
7. Il Sale Art Café
  • Address: Via Santa Filomena, Catania, Italy 
  • Description: Known for using top-quality local ingredients, it offers refined dishes. Prices: €20 for pizza and beer, or €40 for a full meal.
8. Vite
  • Address: Via Pantano, Catania, Italy  
  • Description: Sicilian-inspired cuisine with a modern touch. Prices are mid to high-range.
9. Fud Bottega Sicula
  • Address: Via Santa Filomena 35, Catania, Italy 
  • Description: Famous for its burgers with options for vegetarians. They also serve pizza, salads, and beer. Prices: €15 for a burger and beer.
10. Vermut
  • Address: Via Gemellaro, Catania, Italy  
  • Description: Although it looks unassuming, the food is excellent. Try the local cheeses and cold cuts. Prices: €15 for snacks and drinks.

Seafood and Fish Restaurants

11. Fratelli Vittorio
  • Address: Via Cardinale Dusmet, Catania, Italy  
  • Description: Located by the fish market, this restaurant offers fresh seafood. Prices: €30 per person.
12. La Fisharia
  • Address: Via Riccioli, Catania, Italy  
  • Description: Specialises in seafood dishes near the fish market. Prices: €20 for a main course and wine.
13. Osteria Antica Marina
  • Address: Via Pardo, Catania, Italy  
  • Description: In the heart of the fish market, it’s famous for its fish-based dishes.
14. Scirocco Sicilian Fish Lab 
  • Address: Piazza Alonzo di Benedetto, Catania, Italy  
  • Description: A Sicilian fast food specialising in seafood. Prices: €10 for fried calamari.
15. La Paranza
  • Address: Via Calì, Catania, Italy  
  • Description: Fresh seafood lovers will adore this restaurant.

Pizzerias in Catania

16. Al Vicolo Pizza & Vino 
  • Address: Via del Colosseo, Catania, Italy  
  • Description: A popular pizzeria offering Italian charcuterie boards and giant pizzas (enough for two!). Prices: €20 per person.
17. Sazi e Sani 
  • Address: Via Sant’Euplio 122, Catania, Italy  
  • Description: A local favourite for quick pizza. Affordable and delicious.
18. Acido Lattico
  • Address: Via Pantano, Catania, Italy  
  • Description: A great spot for pizza with a relaxed atmosphere. Prices are reasonable.

International Cuisine in Catania

19. Oxidiana
  • Address: Via Conte Ruggero, Catania, Italy  
  • Description: The best Japanese restaurant in town. Prices: €40 per person.
20. ll Mondo
  • Address: Via Aloi, Catania, Italy  
  • Description A Chinese restaurant offering traditional dishes. Prices: €15 per person.
21. Indian Curry Restaurant
  • Address: Via del Toscano, Catania, Italy  
  • Description: A small Indian restaurant with take-away options. Prices: €10 for a take-away dish.
22. Indian Royal Restaurant di Yoga Chef
  • Address: Via Umberto I, Catania, Italy  
  • Description: A family-run Indian restaurant with friendly service. Prices are reasonable.
23. Carlito’s
  • Address: Via Gisira, Catania, Italy  
  • Description: A popular Mexican restaurant offering hearty portions. Prices: €20 per person.

I hope you find these recommendations helpful for your stay in Catania. I’ve personally visited each of these spots multiple times and was never disappointed. Of course, Catania is home to hundreds of other trattorias and restaurants where you’re sure to enjoy a delicious meal.

To truly immerse yourself in Catania’s rich culture and cuisine, consider exploring the city with a local guide. Join the Catania City Walking Tour to uncover hidden gems and historical landmarks. If you’re a food enthusiast, don’t miss the Private Catania Street Food Tour led by a licensed guide and fellow food lover. These guided experiences will make your visit unforgettable.