10 Favourite Authentic Sicilian restaurant in Catania - Hidden Gems

Tiziana Lorenzi • May 2, 2024

10 Favourite Authentic Sicilian restaurant in Catania - Hidden Gems

Catania, the vibrant capital of Sicily, is a haven for food enthusiasts, offering a tantalizing blend of traditional Sicilian flavors and innovative culinary creations. From cozy trattorias to Michelin-starred establishments, Catania's dining scene caters to every taste and budget. Embark on a gastronomic journey through the city with our curated list of the 10 best restaurants in Catania:

1. A casa di Pino:

Style: Authentic Sicilian Trattoria


What People Love: Immerse yourself in the warm hospitality and authentic Sicilian cuisine at A casa di Pino. This family-run trattoria has been serving up delectable dishes for over 30 years, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.


Popular Dishes: Don't miss their signature pasta alla Norma, a rich and flavorful dish with eggplant, ricotta salata, and basil. The grilled octopus and the swordfish steak are also local favorites.


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2. FUD bottega Sicula:

Style: Modern Sicilian Cuisine with a Focus on Local Produce


What People Love: FUD bottega Sicula redefines Sicilian cuisine with a contemporary twist, showcasing the island's rich culinary heritage. Their menu changes seasonally, highlighting the freshest ingredients available.


Popular Dishes: Start with the burrata with seasonal fruit and pistachio pesto, a delightful combination of textures and flavors. For mains, try the black pork with fennel and orange or the grilled tuna with Sicilian caponata.


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3. Vermut

Style: Tapas Bar with a Sicilian Flair


What People Love: Vermut brings the vibrant tapas culture of Spain to Catania, with a Sicilian twist. Their menu features an array of small plates, perfect for sharing and sampling different flavors.


Popular Dishes: Indulge in the arancini, crispy rice balls filled with ragù or other savory fillings. The Sicilian caponata, a sweet and sour eggplant dish, is a must-try. And don't forget to pair your meal with a glass of local Sicilian wine.


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4. Cascia:

Style: Sicilian Bistro with a Focus on Local Flavors


What People Love: Cascia offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed and enjoyable dining experience. This Sicilian bistro highlights the region's fresh, seasonal ingredients with a focus on tradition.


Popular Dishes: Their menu features classic Sicilian dishes with a touch of modernity. You might find delectable pasta dishes like busiate al pesto Trapanese, a flavorful twist on the classic pesto with the addition of local Trapani pesto. For a lighter option, try their Caponata Siciliana, a sweet and sour eggplant salad bursting with flavor. Don't forget to end your meal with a slice of their homemade cheesecake or a traditional Sicilian dessert like cannoli.


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5. Tantikkia:

Style: Intimate Restaurant with a Focus on Seafood


What People Love: Tantikkia is a hidden gem, tucked away in a charming alleyway. Seafood lovers will rejoice in their fresh, expertly prepared dishes.


Popular Dishes: Start with the crudo di gamberi, a platter of raw red shrimp, followed by the spaghetti alle vongole, a classic pasta dish with clams. For dessert, indulge in the cannoli, a Sicilian staple filled with sweet ricotta cream.


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6. Pentolaccia:

Style: Casual Trattoria with a Lively Atmosphere


What People Love: Pentolaccia is a local favorite, known for its hearty portions, friendly service, and vibrant atmosphere.


Popular Dishes: Their pasta dishes are legendary, with favorites like the pasta alla Norma and the penne all'arrabbiata. The grilled meats are also a hit, especially the bistecca alla Fiorentina.


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7. Trattoria Casalinga da Nino Mannino:

Style: Family-Run Trattoria with Home-Cooked Sicilian Fare


What People Love: Step into Trattoria Casalinga da Nino Mannino and feel like you're dining at a family friend's house. Their menu features traditional Sicilian dishes prepared with love and care.


Popular Dishes: Try the pasta con le sarde, a savory pasta dish with sardines, fennel, and pine nuts. The involtini di carne, stuffed beef rolls, are another local favorite.


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Are you looking for the best street food in Catania?
Read the article:


Best Street Food in Catania and where to find it!

8. Cucina dei colori:

Style: Vegan and Vegetarian Restaurant with Creative Cuisine


What People Love: Cucina dei colori proves that plant-based cuisine can be both delicious and satisfying. Their menu features innovative dishes that showcase the versatility of vegetables and legumes.


Popular Dishes: Start with the carpaccio di barbabietola, a beet carpaccio with pistachio crumble and balsamic reduction. For mains, try the lasagna al ragù di lenticchie, a lentil lasagna with a rich and flavorful sauce.


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9. Antica Marina:

Style: Seafood Restaurant in the heart of the famous Fish Market


What People Love: Antica Marina is a Catania institution, renowned for its fresh seafood and stunning views of the marina.


Popular Dishes: Start with the antipasto misto, a selection of fresh fish and shellfish displayed daily. Don't miss their pasta alla scoglio, a seafood pasta bursting with flavor.


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10. Bavetta - Osteria d'Oggi:

Style: Modern Interpretation of Traditional Sicilian Cuisine


What People Love: Bavetta offers a fresh take on Sicilian classics in a stylish and contemporary setting. They use high-quality, locally sourced ingredients to create innovative dishes that respect tradition while showcasing new culinary techniques.


Popular Dishes: Their menu changes seasonally, but some of their signature dishes include:

  • Pasta dishes with a twist, like their take on pasta alla Norma or creative seafood pasta options.
  • Second courses featuring fresh fish or meat, prepared with unique flavor combinations.



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Conclusion

This list is just a starting point for your culinary adventure in Catania. With its diverse range of restaurants, from traditional trattorias to innovative establishments, Catania offers something for every taste bud. So, grab your appetite and explore the delicious world of Sicilian cuisine!


Are you looking for accommodation? View our houses in the historical Centre in Catania!

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