Traveling to Sicily: Some of our Favorite Restaurants in Eastern Sicily

On an island like Sicily, the choices for places to eat are as diverse as the food that makes this a ‘foodie’ paradise. This is a short list of some favorite places to dine in Eastern Sicily. Hours can change seasonally, so always check before visiting. I have enjoyed meals in these restaurants with guests and on my own. The meals are consistent, nothing fancy, and truly Sicilian. An upcoming article will feature a few favorites from Western Sicily.

Tutti vai a tavola e mangiare!!
Everyone go to the table and eat!!

Ortigia (Siracusa)

Located on the eastern shore of Sicily, south of Catania, the city is over 2,000 years old. The annual Open Aire Greek Theater Season should not be missed!

Ortigia Fish Bar

You simply cannot get fresher seafood, prepared in the best Sicilian traditions, anywhere on Ortygia. A local favorite. I have eaten here many times — excellent. Located along the waterfront on the eastern side of the island of Ortigia. Reservations recommended. Informal, fun.
Address:
Via della Maestranza, 134 96100, Siracusa SR Italy
Hours:
Closed Wednesday
Thursday- Tuesday Continuous hours, 8:00AM – 10:00PM
Phone:
+39 0931 64885

Pizzeria Schiticchio

One of the best pizzerias in Sicily, and a wonderful place for lunch. The atmosphere is simple and traditional. This is a wonderful spot to enjoy exceptional pizzas in the heart of old town on Ortigia. Go early to avoid the evening rush that usually starts around 7:30PM. I have eaten here numerous times and have never been disappointed.
Address:
Via Cavour, 30
96100 Siracusa SR, Italy
Hours:
Daily 12:30PM – 3:30PM / 7:30PM – 11:00PM
Phone:
+39 331 334 3721

aLevante Restaurant

A restaurant created for the outdoors with views of the ocean, great food, and an informal atmosphere. Swimsuits, shorts, and very informal garb are the norm. The view is spectacular.
Address:
Largo della Gancia, 5
96100 Siracusa SR
Hours:
Closed Monday – Thursday
Friday – Sunday 12:30PM – 3:30PM
Phone:
+39 0931 24226

La Terrazza sul Mare

Located in the Grand Hotel Ortigia, this is a bit of a dressier place, and the food and time taken with preparation make this an ideal spot for a long dinner or lunch. Great location and exceptional food-great views, too! Reservation recommended.
Address:
Viale Giuseppe Mazzini, 12
96100 Siracusa SR, Italy
Hours:
Daily 1:00PM – 2:30PM / 7:30PM to 11:00PM
Phone:
+39 0931 464600

Ristorante Regina Lucia

This is a unique and memorable location, a place with views and incredible food. Intimate Sicilian atmosphere offering wonderful food, proudly served. A gorgeous baroque palazzo provides the background for this incredible restaurant. The tables often spill onto the piazza in Ortigia, and meals are measured in hours. Sit back, enjoy the food and wine, and take in bella Ortigia! Reservations strongly recommended.
Address:
Piazza Duomo 6
Ortigia, 96100, Syracuse
Hours:
Closed Tuesday
Wednesday – Monday 12:30PM – 2:00PM / 7:45PM – 10:30PM
Phone:
+39 0931 22509

Hotel Ristorante Pomara

I was introduced to this phenomenal restaurant during a return trip from Caltagirone (City of Sicilian Ceramics) to Caltagirone’s Piazza Armerina. The hotel is high above this small village. Views from the terrace and pool are breathtaking. If you plan an overnight at this hotel, you will find the accommodations more than comfortable. Request a room on a high floor with valley view. Unforgettable!
The restaurant focuses on local specialties. The service is quick, enjoyable, and adds to a greater understanding of Sicilian hospitality. This place was reviewed a few years ago by the New York Times. You will not be disappointed. Arrive hungry!
Address:
Via Vittorio Veneto, 84
95040 San Michele di Ganzaria CT, Italy
Hours: Vary. Call ahead for reservations.
Phone: +39 0933 976976

Acireale, Catania

Trattoria Lo Scalo

Upon arrival in Catania, my friend Benny Grasso met me at the airport. Given the hour of the day, he drove directly north of the airport to Lo Scalo for lunch. In a word? Unforgettable. We sat at a table above the sea. The shallow blue water below us was as clear as glass. The soft breeze that moved across the table invoked relaxation and time. The food, fresh delicacies from the sea (literally caught that morning) were brought table side for selection. We spent the next two hours in unforgettable conversation and friendship. Go. You will be glad you did.
Address: dello, Viale Jonio, 25
95024 Acireale CT, Italy
Hours:
Closed Tuesday
Monday – Friday 7:30PM – 12:00AM
Saturday & Sunday 12:00 PM – 3:00PM / 7:30PM – 12:00AM
Phone: +39 095 877282

Milo (Above Catania on the slopes of Mt. Etna)

Quattro Archi Di Grasso Rosario

There are few restaurants anywhere in Italy that can match the Porcini season offerings at this incredible restaurant. Sundays are all out madness. Families from numerous small villages on the slopes of Mt Etna vie for tables with patrons who come from as far as Taormina and Siracusa to share a meal. Reservations are absolutely required, and you should plan to call well in advance of your visit. Those minor requirements are far outweighed by one of the best dining experiences you will ever have.
Address:
Via Francesco Crispi, 9
95010 Milo CT, Italy
Phone:
+39 095 955566
Hours:
Closed Wednesday
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday – Sunday 12:30PM – 6:00PM

Piazza Armerina

The Roman Villa del Casale, on the outskirts of Piazza Armerina, was discovered decades ago. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for containing over 32,000 square feet of incredible Roman-era mosaics. After a great visit to this gorgeous villa, stay on in Piazza Armerina and enjoy lunch or dinner at the Trattoria Al Goloso. Located in the heart of the city, their menu offers dishes from generations of family recipes. I recommend outside tables on the piazza if you can secure one!
Address:
Trattoria Al Goloso
Via Garao, 4
94015 Piazza Armerina EN, Italy
Phone: +39 0935 684325
Hours:
Closed Wednesday
Thursday – Tuesday 12:00PM – 3:00PM / 7:00PM – 10:00PM