Best Mediterranean Restaurants in Italy

SETTECENTO is a restaurant and pizzeria in Palazzolo Acreide. In the heart of the historic centre, chef Marco Giuliano offers innovative cuisine, respecting tradition. The excellence of local raw materials has made it possible to create an original menu, where each dish is conceived in three different variations: meat, fish and vegetarian. Palazzolo, the pearl of the Baroque, located in the Iblei mountains, is the perfect outpost to ensure first-choice products. The proximity to the sea ensures that the fish is always fresh, and the Hyblaean mountains, with their farms, allow for the selection of the best beef, wild boar, pork and goat meats, and excellent products such as cured meats, cheeses and extra virgin olive oils. All kitchen ingredients are enhanced in the proposals on the menu and the pizzeria with classic and gourmet pizzas. SETTECENTO is housed in a noble residence, a historic building and its external courtyard, reborn after the devastating earthquake of 1693. The complex, wholly restored, returned to its former glory, retains its original decorations. It is a magical and romantic place, an example of rebirth which, like our cuisine, is proud of its past but proudly looks to the future.

Situated in the heart of historic Palazzolo Acreide, Ristorante Andrea is a culinary gem that brilliantly marries Sicily's rich heritage with modern flair. Established in a beautifully restored townhouse, the restaurant effortlessly captures the region's spirit, making it an unmissable gastronomic destination for locals and travellers. The facade of Ristorante Andrea, with its earth-toned stuccos and classic wrought-iron fixtures, offers just a glimpse of the elegance that awaits inside. On entering, guests are immediately enveloped in an ambience that pays homage to traditional Sicilian homes—terracotta tiles, vintage wooden furniture, and walls adorned with artwork depicting Sicily's mesmerizing landscapes and vibrant life. However, it's the culinary journey that sets Ristorante Andrea apart. At the helm is Chef Andrea, a Palazzolo Acreide native who brings his passion and expertise to every dish. His philosophy is simple: use the freshest local ingredients to honour traditional recipes but give them a contemporary twist. The result? Words like 'Carpaccio di Tonno con Agrumi', a refreshing tuna carpaccio drizzled with citrus vinaigrette, or 'Tagliatelle al Nero di Seppia', house-made pasta infused with squid ink, bursting with the flavours of the sea.

In the captivating streets of Palazzolo Acreide, where history whispers through the stone walls and every corner tells a story, there lies a culinary treasure named Quel che c'è. The name, which translates to "What there is", embraces the philosophy of simplicity, authenticity, and the joy of the present moment. Stepping into Quel che c'è, guests are greeted with a rustic and contemporary ambience. Exposed brick walls harmonize with sleek wooden tables, while soft ambient lighting casts a glow on vibrant artwork that celebrates the scenic beauty of Sicily. The space resonates with a comforting hum, where laughter and the clinking of glasses blend into a melody of enjoyment. The menu at Quel che c'è reflects its name—showcasing what's fresh, what's in season, and what the Sicilian land offers generously. Every dish is a testament to the beauty of simplicity. From the 'Insalata di Arance e Finocchi', a refreshing salad of oranges and fennel, to the 'Risotto ai Funghi Porcini', a creamy risotto fragrant with wild mushrooms, the flavours are pure, bold, and unmistakably Sicilian.

Perched elegantly in the ancient heart of Palazzolo Acreide lies Trattoria del Gallo, a haven of gastronomic delight that effortlessly weaves the rustic essence of a classic Sicilian trattoria with modern touches. As the name suggests, "The Rooster's Trattoria" takes pride in its roots, offering a dining experience that is as authentic as it is memorable. A mosaic of aged stone and vibrant Sicilian tiles greets patrons upon entry, setting the stage for an ambience that's both intimate and festive. Handcrafted wooden furnishings, reminiscent of a bygone era, are harmoniously juxtaposed against walls adorned with playful illustrations of roosters, symbolizing wakefulness and a new dawn. The culinary journey at Trattoria del Gallo is a heartfelt homage to the region's rich agricultural heritage. The thoughtfully curated menu is a canvas of seasonal produce, locally sourced meats, and the freshest catch from the Mediterranean. Signature dishes like 'Rigatoni al Ragu di Gallo', a robust pasta dish simmered with a rooster ragu, and 'Pollo Arrosto alla Siciliana', a roasted chicken marinated in Sicilian herbs, offer diners a taste of tradition infused with innovative flair.

As per the vocabulary, éstro restaurant expresses all our creativity and our way of reinterpreting classic recipes to redefine the rules of our cuisine. The éstro menu combines tradition and innovation, projecting you into a culinary experience of charm and curiosity. A renovated location is ideal for organizing birthdays, corporate events, show cooking, team building, cooking courses, birthday parties, tastings, thematic parties and many more in a discreet environment dedicated only to you and your guests. A room that transforms according to your needs. An open space with an open kitchen is a unique area for your special evening! Our environments are welcoming and informal, with an unmistakable style capable of changing to shape itself to your needs. Our restaurant combines tradition and innovation. The quality of the raw materials and the inimitable taste of the Iblean dishes give a unique flavour to all our words!

In the vibrant heart of Palazzolo Acreide, Unnimaffissu stands as an emblem of Sicilian culinary prowess, drawing both locals and travellers into its warm embrace. The name, an intriguing whisper of Sicilian dialect, piques curiosity and beckons guests to discover its meaning. Stepping into Unnimaffissu, one is immediately enveloped by an ambience that feels like a cherished family home. Walls draped in soft terracotta hues play host to an array of vintage photographs and artisanal crafts, each narrating tales of Palazzolo's storied past. Unnimaffissu's menu is a veritable feast, encapsulating the very soul of Sicilian gastronomy. Every dish is an artful blend of time-honoured recipes and modern techniques, ensuring patrons experience tradition and innovation in each bite. Freshly harvested ingredients sourced from the verdant fields and azure waters surrounding Palazzolo Acreide shine brightly on the plate. The 'Pesce Spada alla Griglia'—grilled swordfish drizzled with an aromatic citrus herb infusion—is a must-try, reflecting the island's deep ties to the sea. However, the true essence of Unnimaffissu lies in its pasta dishes. Handmade daily, the pasta embodies the tactile love and meticulous craftsmanship that Sicilian nonnas have been imparting for generations. The 'Ravioli di Ricotta e Limone', delicate pockets filled with creamy ricotta and a hint of lemon zest, dance on the palate, evoking sun-soaked Sicilian afternoons.

Immersed between nature and the history of the Iblei a few kilometres from Palazzolo Acreide, La Trota is a gastronomy, environment and tradition treasure. La Trota is a restaurant, a nursery, a playground with a garden and three large halls to welcome every vital occasion in your life. Here, a splendid nature, made even more fascinating by the timeless notes of Baroque music, frames a story of respect for the landscape, taste for authentic flavours and ease of mind in the beauty of what surrounds us. It is like immersing oneself in the most accurate meaning of this land, typical of perfumes and intense emotions, which makes hospitality a wise art. It is a beautiful place, decorated to create an intimate and romantic atmosphere that makes everything even more special. Our cuisine has a solid link to the territory without neglecting creativity, trying to respect the product and the simple flavour of the ingredients. “A house built in the old stone of the walls... a kitchen with an exceptional dish such as trout, served in different flavours and with the typical affability of the Palazzolese soul.”

The Trattoria Da Salvatore in Petralia Soprana, in Piazza San Michele 4, is a historic restaurant active since 1982. The business was founded by Salvatore Ruvutuso, initially born as a 'Jolly Pub', where typically German dishes were served, given the owner's experience in Germany. In the heart of the alleys of Petralia Soprana, overlooking the beautiful Piazza San Michele, the Trattoria da Salvatore welcomes you in a small place with a warm atmosphere. Everything is taken care of to the smallest detail, starting from the wooden furnishings and finishing with the tableware to create an environment where the customer can feel at home. During the summer, it is possible to eat outside, in a space sheltered by the canopy, to enjoy the beauty of the location thoroughly. Our goal is to satisfy the customer, making him savour the smells and flavours of the typical cuisine of our area. The trattoria serves typical traditional dishes, preferring rustic appetizers with local cheeses and cured meats, wild vegetables from the Madonie Park cooked with ancient recipes and soups with local legumes, such as chickpeas, macco di fave, lentils and beans. Do not miss the first courses, fresh pasta with veal ragout, cardoncelli mushrooms, wild fennel and toasted breadcrumbs—tasty grilled local meat cooked directly on the grill. With long-leavening dough cooked in a wood oven, the pizza is topped with selected quality products.

Tucked within the charming streets of Petralia Sottana lies Nicuzza, a 'Piccola Osteria Contemporanea' that beautifully juxtaposes the age-old soul of Sicily with a refreshing modern twist. The name "Nicuzza," which exudes an intimate, endearing touch, perfectly encapsulates the ambience of this delightful nook. The entrance of Nicuzza welcomes diners with an aura of nostalgia. Vintage Sicilian tiles blend seamlessly with contemporary art pieces, symbolizing the harmonious blend of old and new that defines the restaurant. Large, arched windows allow gentle sunlight to illuminate the interiors during the day, while the evenings are bathed in a warm, golden glow from chic pendant lights. At its core, Nicuzza is an ode to Sicilian culinary artistry. The menu, ever-evolving with the seasons, champions local produce harvested from the bounteous landscapes of Petralia Sottana. While rooted in tradition, each dish is presented with a flair of modernity, teasing the palate with familiar yet unexpected flavours. A standout might be the 'Risotto al Nero di Seppia', where the rich ink of cuttlefish paints a dramatic plate adorned with hints of zesty orange and fennel.

The hotel results from a careful and accurate restoration that considered the particular archaeological site in which it is located and the old Norman castle following 1062. "Il Castello" offers an exclusive atmosphere between history and culture. Guests are welcomed in an environment of refinement, courtesy and hospitality. The 12 rooms, including three suites with a fireplace and panoramic terrace, are in the name of comfort and good taste. The restaurant offers good Madonita cuisine with tasty local delicacies and typical recipes. Immerse yourself in the restaurant's warm atmosphere housed in the ancient theatre. The exclusive location has been created inside the old theatre of the Norman Castle, from which the venue takes its name. The menu proposals follow the alternation of the seasons and what nature offers us; in particular, we use the km0 vegetables that our family cultivates in respect of nature in the Masseria S'Elia of our property in Petralia Sottana. Among our specialities, we list some dishes that cannot be renounced. The appetizer of the castle contains an explosion of flavours of our territory, such as cured meats and cheeses, omelettes and seasonal vegetables, pasta with black pig from the Madonie, cooked over a low flame with S'Elia tomato puree at km0 of our production, pasta with vegetables and legumes at km0, the pork knuckle cooked in a wood oven for eight hours, a vast choice of Madonite meats cooked on the grill such as sliced veal and pork steak, and finally our homemade Sicilian desserts as per tradition. Another speciality you can't give up is our gourmet hamburgers, prepared with our long-leavening bread and a selection of Madonita meat. Our pizza comes from an extended maturation dough, with a minimum of 72 hours up to 100 hours; our blend of selected flours is composed of ancient Sicilian grains, wholemeal flour and type 0 with toasted bran, with a high hydration, and the final result is a light and digestible pizza.

Nestled in the scenic heart of Sambuca di Sicilia, Antico Mulino beckons diners with an intriguing blend of history and culinary elegance. With a name that translates to "Ancient Mill," this restaurant is both a testament to the region's rich legacy and a modern hub of gastronomic delights. Set within a lovingly restored mill, the restaurant retains architectural elements from a bygone era. Exposed stone walls, rustic wooden beams, and antique milling equipment contribute to an atmosphere steeped in history. The gentle murmur of a nearby stream, once the mill's lifeblood, adds to the ambient charm, providing a serene backdrop to every meal. The menu at Antico Mulino is a heartfelt homage to classic Sicilian cuisine, with each dish representing a culinary journey across the island's varied landscapes. Locally sourced ingredients, fresh from the fields and shores of Sicily, take centre stage. A signature dish, perhaps the 'Tagliatelle al Mulino', features hand-rolled pasta infused with herbs, draped in a sumptuous sauce crafted from ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and robust Sicilian olive oil. However, what truly sets Antico Mulino apart is its approach to bread and grains. In a nod to its milling heritage, the restaurant emphasises crafting artisanal bread and pasta from ancient Sicilian grains ground on-site using traditional stone methods. The result is a distinct flavour and texture, evoking memories of a simpler time.

In the captivating town of San Marco D'alunzio, perched high with views that stretch endlessly over the Mediterranean, stands Ritrovo La Macina, a dining gem that harmoniously blends the region's rich past with culinary innovation. The name "La Macina," translating to "The Millstone," hints at the restaurant's historic essence. Indeed, Ritrovo La Macina is housed in a beautifully restored stone building, where the echoes of the past resonate in every corner. Original millstone features are tastefully integrated into the restaurant's design, paying homage to the age-old traditions of grain milling and bread-making in Sicily. The dining area is a symphony of rustic elegance, with exposed brick walls, wooden beam ceilings, and vintage ironwork. Softly lit by candles in the evening, the ambience is enchanting, evoking feelings of nostalgia and romance. The menu at Ritrovo La Macina is a tribute to Sicilian gastronomy. It cleverly incorporates grains and fresh produce, many of which are sourced from local farmers who have tilled the region's fertile soils for generations. A standout dish is the 'Spaghetti al Mulino', a delightful pasta tossed in a sauce of sun-dried tomatoes, wild herbs, and toasted ancient grains, capturing the essence of the Sicilian countryside.

The La Fornace restaurant was born in 1975 at the hands of the progenitor Basilio Monastra, who manages the Sala Monastra with passion and dedication, helped by his wife Rita and sister-in-law Angela. Over the years, the children grow up infected by their fathers. In 1988, they formed the first company and gave the name La Fornace. With an ultimately family management, the children and spouses are dedicated to the activity by promoting food and wine and religious tourism. In 1992, La Fornace changed its face; the appearance is more refined, and the experience is the master. From MACARONI IN TEGAMINO, which made the restaurant known in the Nebrodi, we move on to fresh pasta stuffed with pistachio, lasagna with suckling pig, lamb shank, grilled beef ribs, an excellent wine list (about 300 labels) and excellent pizzas cooked in a wood oven. The desire to grow and improve leads to a new project, "THE MEDIEVAL DINNER". It is a dive into the past; everything is transformed, and the room becomes a castle with tapestries, banners and lit candles. The table is set with earthenware glasses, jugs, den spoons, and dried fruit placed directly on the table. The dishes are served without a precise order, from vegetable soups to games to delicious appetizers, all crowned by homemade desserts such as "milk cream".

Tucked away in the scenic heart of Sutera, a town steeped in history and natural beauty, Pizzeria Ristorante La Pineta is a testament to Sicilian culinary artistry. Named after the Italian word for "pine grove," La Pineta brings the serene ambience of a Mediterranean pine forest to its patrons. The restaurant's exterior is an enticing blend of rustic stone walls and large, panoramic windows that offer diners a peek into the cosy world within. Upon entering, you're immediately greeted by the inviting scent of pine, blended harmoniously with the irresistible aroma of pizzas baking in traditional wood-fired ovens. Inside, wooden beams stretch across the ceiling, interspersed with hanging pine cones and delicate fairy lights, creating a magical and homely ambience. Handcrafted wooden tables, softened by the glow of candlelight, offer intimate spaces for friends and family to gather and share meals. The menu at La Pineta proudly showcases the diverse palette of Sicilian cuisine. While pizzas, baked to crispy perfection with a range of fresh and flavorful toppings, are undoubtedly the stars, the restaurant also offers an array of tempting dishes that highlight the island's rich culinary heritage. Delicacies such as 'Arancini di Riso,' stuffed rice balls coated in breadcrumbs and fried to golden perfection, and 'Caponata,' a delectable aubergine stew, resonate deeply with traditional tastes.

In the heart of Sutera, a town echoing with tales of ancient civilizations and the resonant beauty of Sicilian landscapes, lies Sambriglia—a culinary gem that stands as a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. Derived from an old Sicilian term suggesting 'gathering' or 'togetherness,' Sambriglia embodies the very essence of communal dining. The exterior is a graceful dance between Sutera's historic architecture and contemporary design elements. Stone arches lead into a space illuminated with soft, modern lighting, hinting at the fusion of flavours. Stepping inside, diners are met with walls adorned with artworks that depict Sicilian life in all its vibrant hues. Long wooden tables encourage shared meals, fostering the spirit of community and conversation that Sicilian dining is known for. Sambriglia's menu is a journey through Sicily's culinary landscape. While deeply rooted in tradition, each dish has a modern flair. The 'Risotto al Nero di Seppia' is a visual and gustatory delight—creamy rice infused with the rich ink of cuttlefish, dotted with golden saffron threads and finished with a sprinkle of zesty lemon zest.

Hidden amidst the rolling hills and timeless streets of Troina, the Trattoria Pizzeria Antichi Sapori emerges as a culinary gem, radiating Sicilian gastronomy's ageless charm and flavours. The name 'Antichi Sapori' evokes images of historic Sicilian villages, where recipes passed down through generations testify to the island's rich culinary tapestry. And indeed, stepping into this trattoria is akin to entering a Sicilian home from days gone by. The rustic stone walls of Antichi Sapori, peppered with vintage photographs and traditional kitchen utensils, paint a portrait of old-world Sicily. Wooden tables, worn smooth by years of shared meals and laughter, are set under dimly lit lanterns, casting a warm, inviting glow. The menu at Antichi Sapori is both a celebration of tradition and a tribute to the bounties of Sicily. The pizzas fired to perfection in a wood-burning oven, come adorned with various fresh, local ingredients. From the tang of sun-ripened tomatoes to the creamy goodness of buffalo mozzarella, every bite transports diners to Sicily's sun-soaked fields and shores. But beyond pizzas, the trattoria presents a spread that speaks of familial Sunday lunches and festive gatherings. Dishes like 'Pasta alla Norma,' showcasing the harmonious blend of eggplant, tomatoes, and ricotta salata, and 'Osso Buco alla Troinese,' a delectable meat dish slow-cooked in a rich tomato and wine sauce, are heartwarming reminders of Sicilian culinary prowess.

Set against Troina's picturesque landscapes, Ristorante La Ferla is a beacon of Sicilian culinary heritage and innovation. Housed in a beautifully restored stone building, the restaurant exudes a charm that effortlessly marries Troina's storied past with contemporary elegance. As you step through the arched doorway of La Ferla, you're welcomed by a warm ambience accentuated by terracotta tiles, antique wooden beams, and walls adorned with artwork that pays homage to the region's vibrant history and culture. Candlelit tables, dressed in pristine linens, set the stage for an intimate and unforgettable dining experience. Its menu is at the heart of Ristorante La Ferla, a tapestry of flavours that tells the tale of Sicily's rich culinary journey. Drawing inspiration from age-old family recipes, each dish is crafted passionately and precisely. The 'Spaghetti con Bottarga,' featuring pasta kissed by the sea's essence with cured fish roe and a hint of lemon, is a true testament to the island's coastal heritage. Meanwhile, the 'Agnello alla Troinese'—succulent lamb slow-cooked in a fragrant blend of herbs and local wine—whispers stories of the Sicilian hinterland.

Nestled in the heart of Troina, Black & White emerges as a gastronomic marvel that cleverly fuses Sicilian traditions with modern culinary artistry. The restaurant, true to its name, is a captivating play of contrasts, both in its interiors and on the plate. Upon entering Black & White, patrons are greeted by an ambience that's a masterful blend of old-world charm and sleek modernism. Classic Sicilian tiles, hinting at the island's rich history, seamlessly integrate with chic black and white decor, creating an atmosphere of timeless elegance. Vintage photographs of Troina, rendered in monochrome, adorn the walls, paying homage to the town's storied past. The menu at Black & White is a testament to the balance of tradition and innovation. Classic Sicilian dishes, known for their vibrant flavours and colours, are reimagined in a contemporary black-and-white palette. The 'Ravioli di Nero' features pasta pockets filled with fresh seafood infused with squid ink for a deep black hue against a delicate white wine sauce. Another standout is the 'Bianco e Nero Risotto', a harmonious blend of white Arborio rice, black truffles, and Pecorino cheese, culminating in a visually stunning and delightfully aromatic dish.

The Locanda di Corte was born in July 2013 from the love between Angela and Angelo and their passion for cooking and catering. Built in the heart of the historic centre of Bosa in Sardinia, this small restaurant represents a dream come true. In 2016, their son, Nicola, returned home after gaining various experiences in restaurants throughout Italy as an assistant chef and joined the family project. The Locanda is a refuge where you can relax and enjoy the beauty and taste of the area. A place to come back to and be pampered. A hidden corner where to look for new things. We are tireless researchers of new dishes, ideas, ingredients and colours. The meeting point where memories of home flavors intersect with modernity. Grandma's sauce becomes a brushstroke of colour in a new palette. The Locanda is a refuge where you can relax and enjoy the beauty and taste of the area. A place to come back to and be pampered. A hidden corner where to look for new things. We are tireless researchers of new dishes, ideas, ingredients and colours. The meeting point where memories of home flavours intersect with modernity. Grandma's sauce becomes a brushstroke of colour in a new palette.

Nestled in the picturesque town of Bosa, Sardinia, Al Gambero Rosso is a culinary haven for those who cherish authentic Italian flavours. Celebrating the rich coastal heritage of Sardinia, the restaurant proudly serves a selection of the freshest seafood, handpicked daily from the cerulean waters of the Mediterranean. Each dish is a masterpiece, crafted with passion and respect for traditional Sardinian recipes, yet presented with a contemporary twist. The ambience of Al Gambero Rosso beautifully complements its menu. With a cosy, rustic decor that echoes the charming streets of Bosa, diners can relish their meals on a breezy terrace overlooking the shimmering sea or inside amidst walls adorned with local artwork. An extensive wine list, curated from the best vineyards of Italy esp, especially Sardinia, complements each dish. Whether you are looking for a crisp Vermentino with your seafood pasta or a robust Cannonau for your grilled catch of the day, Al Gambero Rosso has a perfect pour awaiting you.