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.
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. For budget tips, check out our article on [**Where to Eat Cheaply in Catania**].
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.