Best Restaurants in Messina

A Wine Bar housed inside a cave at the foot of the medieval castle of Castelmola, one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. La Caverna is an exclusive place full of atmosphere that combines the mysterious atmosphere of the natural cavity with the scents and flavours of the local products and wines that can be tasted. Suppose you are looking for a calm and quiet place, even on hot summer evenings, to have an aperitif or to enjoy a taste of the area's excellent red and white wines, perhaps with a plate of cheeses or salami. In that case, the Wine Bar La Caverna is the best choice that you can make. In Autumn, you will find the fireplace, which is always lit, and various books for those wishing to relax with a good read. A few steps from the main square, in the ancient and welcoming village of Castelmola, is the Caverna where, inside this ancient cave, small spaces, soft music and lights will frame intimate and relaxing moments. An assorted card, continuously updated, will allow you to choose the wine you like best among the best traditional and more recent producers. Sicilian and Italian scents and flavours cause a whirlwind of sensations favoured by the beauty and suggestion of the place that will make you experience the feeling of living in an enchanting dream place. The ancient origins of the site are evident, not only from the details such as the old exposed wooden beams but from the very structure of the wine shop, divided into small and large spaces with a handmade terracotta floor.

Glad to welcome you at Trattoria Tiramisu Taormina, where we’ll make you taste unique dishes inspired by Sicilian traditions, revisited by our chef with the will to make our guests experience new tastes. Our dishes are created starting from the best ingredients that Sicily offers: like daily fish, selected among the freshest at the local markets, which is one of the protagonists of our recipes combined with scents and flavours in order to enhance the main ingredients. A totally new culinary experience is waiting for you at Trattoria Tiramisu Taormina!

The halls, the terrace and the garden all with a view of the sea and the Greek theatre. Ideal for meetings and receptions. The prestigious setting where you can savour typical dishes is strongly linked to the Sicilian tradition. The service quality and the place's magic and beauty make the Granduca Restaurant an exclusive location where food is one, but not the only, of the magnificent structure's ingredients. The restaurant is a must in Taormina restaurants and boasts a garden of exclusive charm. Away from prying eyes, in a magical atmosphere that many prefer for big events.

Elegant, refined, intimate, chic. This is how we can define the restaurant L'arco dei Cappuccini. Located in the heart of splendid Taormina, the Arco dei Cappuccini offers elegant and refined gourmet cuisine only for the palates of connoisseurs. Crazy, fresh, native raw materials that leave you breathless for goodness. The chef meticulously chooses the menu who directs a diligent and welcoming staff in the kitchen. A magical, fairy-tale location in the middle of this green garden overlooking the sea. The restaurant has all the cards on the table to leave an indelible mark on you.

The Al Saraceno pizzeria restaurant is located just above the enchanting city of Taormina, a few steps from the historic church of the "Madonna della Rocca", built into the rock, and at the foot of the medieval castle of Taormina in a breathtaking setting, from where you can admire the majesty of Etna and immerse your gaze in the gulf of Giardini Naxos. The interior consists of a large internal room heated by the warmth of the fireplace, furnished in typical Sicilian style, and a suggestive panoramic terrace which, in the warm months, offers the possibility to our guests to have dinner and/or lunch in a privileged position touching the sea with your hand. Thanks to the talent and experience of our chef, he offers typical Sicilian dishes, from fish from our waters to first-choice meat, all embellished with a touch of class. Furthermore, those wishing to taste regular Italian pizza can choose from the many varieties our menu recommends, rigorously baked in a wood oven.

From the architectural reinterpretation of an ancient residence in the centre of Taormina, Casa Niclodi was born. A series of small details identify the need to keep that atmosphere of warmth and cordiality for our guests, which has always distinguished the welcome of Us Sicilians. Our cuisine wants to revive a food and wine journey, which the different cultures present in the times on the island have strongly influenced with a set of typicalities, making it inimitable. We would like to rediscover and bring back flavors and colors lost in time by proposing them again with a contemporary reading so that the very pleasant atmosphere of our fragrant citrus garden can further enhance their peculiar virtues.

In the heart of beautiful Taormina, we find the Nero d'Avola tavern. An inn with a retro flavour, in an almost nineteenth-century, medieval style, reminiscent of past old inns, passing inns where you can find safe shelter. A long tradition, handed down over generations, of wine connoisseurs, welcoming the vineyards of Nero d'Avola, from which the name of the restaurant. A traditional menu that follows in the footsteps of Sicilian gastronomy brings to the table the good things Sicily has to offer, that is, an infinite number of dishes of undisputed quality, which will give diners an incredible culinary experience.

The Kairos restaurant is the flagship of Taormina. One of the most renowned restaurants in the area, thanks to its food, its location, and its position, boasts a splendid view of the sea, offering its customers a dinner or lunch overlooking the Mediterranean. A simple and genuine cuisine. The Sicilian tradition enhanced by the genius and inspiration of Chef Antonio. On the fourth floor, on a panoramic terrace, you can enjoy the continental buffet breakfast with homemade desserts and typical Sicilian pastry delicacies. A rich selection of proposals with first-choice ingredients seasoned with experience and friendliness.

Perched high in the historic town of Castelmola, overlooking the majestic Mount Etna, La Taverna Dell'Etna offers a culinary journey steeped in Sicilian tradition. The restaurant's name, which pays homage to the iconic volcano, reflects its deep connection to the land and bounties. As you step inside, the rustic charm of the tavern, with its stone walls and wooden beams, exudes a warm, welcoming ambience. At La Taverna Dell'Etna, the menu is a testament to Sicily's rich and diverse culinary heritage. Each dish is crafted passionately, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients that capture the essence of the island. The flavours are authentic and innovative, from traditional antipasti to hearty pasta dishes and the freshest seafood. The extensive wine list boasts some of Sicily's finest, with a particular emphasis on selections from vineyards on the slopes of Etna. Whether dining al fresco on the terrace with panoramic views of the volcano or cosying up by the fireplace inside, La Taverna Dell'Etna promises an unforgettable dining experience. With exquisite food, impeccable service, and a setting steeped in history and natural beauty, it's a hidden gem in the heart of Sicily.

Tucked away in the enchanting alleys of Castelmola, Trattoria - Pizzeria "IL VICOLO" is a delightful culinary hideaway where tradition and authenticity are celebrated in every bite. As the name "IL VICOLO" suggests—translating to "The Alley"—this cosy establishment captures the heart and soul of Sicilian dining in a quaint, rustic setting. Upon entering, the intoxicating aroma of freshly baked pizza, wood-fired to perfection, greets patrons and promises an authentic Italian feast. But pizza is just a glimpse of the gastronomic journey here. The trattoria side of "IL VICOLO" boasts a menu brimming with classic Sicilian dishes, each prepared with love, using the freshest local ingredients. Whether a plate of hand-rolled pasta drizzled in a robust sauce or a traditional meat dish cooked to perfection, the flavours resonate with the region's rich heritage. Whether you're seeking a romantic dinner or a memorable meal with family and friends, Trattoria - Pizzeria "IL VICOLO" stands as a testament to the timeless allure of Sicilian hospitality and cuisine.

'Parco Reale' is the restaurant of Villa Sonia, accessed through an authentic 19th-century Sicilian portal. Antiques complete the furnishings of the large room, which can accommodate up to 400 guests but can be divided into smaller and intimate spaces, or instead, it can be expanded outside on the enchanting and panoramic terrace. Ideal for celebrating the most important moments such as ceremonies and weddings, events to remember with splendid gala dinners. Located at the gates of the small medieval village, Villa Sonia offers a refined welcome for an elegant and exclusive ceremony in an enchanting place. In the enchantment of nature, with beautiful scenery on the horizon dominated by the undisputed view of Etna, the Parco Reale restaurant is ideal for those looking for a unique place with the refined atmosphere of an ancient villa, the originality of water games in the pool during the aperitif and the suggestion of the terrace that will make them protagonists of an unforgettable fairytale day. The tradition of the Sicilian land, the class of services offered by the Hotel Villa Sonia for a "tailor-made" event for every different need of the spouses in which no detail is left to chance. Every food and dish has an authentic taste that tells the flavours of authentic Sicily... All the words are tasty and, at the same time, very delicate; find an ideal union in the Divino Enoteca, where you can find the best wines of the Sicilian region and fine Italian wines.

Tucked away in the enchanting town of Castelmola, perched high above Taormina with views of the Ionian Sea, is Bistrot A' Ficaredda. This hidden gem captures the spirit of Sicily in every detail. Housed in a centuries-old stone building, the restaurant boasts a delicate fusion of traditional Sicilian charm and contemporary elegance. As you step in, rustic wooden beams, soft ambient lighting, and walls adorned with artwork depicting local scenes greet you, setting the tone for an intimate dining experience. The terrace offers a panorama of the coastline and Mount Etna, providing the perfect backdrop for an alfresco meal. At Bistrot A' Ficaredda, the menu celebrates Sicilian gastronomy. Freshly caught seafood, sun-ripened vegetables, and local herbs are masterfully woven into dishes that tell a story of the island's rich culinary heritage. The pasta alla Norma, a signature dish, showcases perfectly cooked pasta tossed with a robust tomato sauce and fresh basil and crowned with creamy ricotta salata. The wine list features a carefully curated selection from the island's vineyards, and each bottle complements the flavours of the cuisine.

Nestled in the heart of Castelmola, overlooking the magnificent expanse of the Ionian Sea and the picturesque skyline of Taormina, Pizzeria Nina offers a slice of authentic Sicilian life. The venue's historic stone architecture harmoniously blends with its surroundings' natural beauty, creating a warm and inviting ambience. Stepping inside, guests are immediately enveloped by the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked pizza emanating from a traditional wood-fired oven. The interiors of Pizzeria Nina are a delightful amalgamation of rustic charm and contemporary design, with terracotta tiles, wooden tables, and walls adorned with vintage photos of old Castelmola. The heart and soul of Pizzeria Nina lies in its menu. Each pizza is a canvas of flavours, made using dough allowed to rise slowly, ensuring a perfectly crispy and tender crust. The tomatoes are sun-soaked, the mozzarella is freshly sourced, and the toppings range from classic favourites to unique Sicilian specialities. Not to be missed is the 'Siciliana', a delightful combination of anchovies, capers, olives, and local herbs.

Nestled within the winding streets of Castelmola, a town known for its breathtaking views and historical allure, Trattoria Chicchirichi stands as a beacon of authentic Sicilian culinary traditions. With its rustic stone walls and vine-covered entrance, this trattoria exudes an old-world charm that instantly transports diners to a bygone era. Upon entering, guests are welcomed by the comforting hum of conversation and the soothing melodies of traditional Sicilian ballads. Warm, amber-hued lighting illuminates the interior, revealing wooden beams overhead, terra cotta floors, and walls adorned with relics and photographs that tell tales of Castelmola's storied past. Trattoria Chicchirichi's menu is a poetic homage to the island's rich gastronomy. Using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, each dish is meticulously crafted to showcase Sicily's bold and vibrant flavours. Standout dishes include the 'Risotto al Nero di Seppia', a creamy risotto infused with squid ink and adorned with tender seafood, and the 'Involtini di Melanzane', succulent rolls of aubergine filled with ricotta and herbs, bathed in a tangy tomato sauce.

The beautiful location in the historic centre of Taormina offers traditional Sicilian cuisine, proposing the greatest classics of the Sicilian food and wine tradition. The great wine list, to accompany courses mainly based on fish, thanks to the proximity to the coast and the continuous daily catches that the suppliers bring to the restaurant constantly, guaranteeing the absolute freshness of their products. Appetizers, first and second courses guarantee to please everyone, with pasta and risotto with seafood or land, satisfying all palates.

Nestled in the enchanting streets of Montalbano Elicona, a town rich in medieval charm and timeless beauty, stands a dining establishment that transports guests through the annals of Sicilian history: Il Ritrovo Dei Re alla Taberna di Arnaldo. Translated to 'The Kings' Meeting Place at Arnaldo's Tavern', the restaurant is as regal and atmospheric as its name suggests. Upon entering, one immediately feels the weight of centuries past. Stone walls, worn with age, whisper tales of kings, knights, and noblemen who might have once frequented such a venue. Chandeliers crafted from iron and glass cast a warm glow over rustic wooden tables adorned with pewter plates and goblets reminiscent of grand feasts from the bygone eras. At the helm of this culinary time machine is Arnaldo, a masterful chef and storyteller. Drawing inspiration from ancient recipes passed down through generations, Arnaldo breathes new life into traditional dishes, ensuring that Sicily's rich culinary heritage is preserved and revitalized. Signature dishes, such as 'Agnello alla Normanna'—a succulent lamb dish slow-cooked with herbs and local wines—and 'Ravioli di Ricotta e Cioccolato', which combines creamy ricotta with dark chocolate in delicate pasta parcels, showcase the fusion of flavours that Sicily is celebrated for.

Set against the picturesque backdrop of Montalbano Elicona, with its intricate web of medieval streets and panoramic views of Sicilian landscapes, Ristorante Pizzeria La Sciarbonata emerges as a beacon of culinary delight, evoking the heart and soul of authentic Sicilian flavours. The name "La Sciarbonata" paints a vivid picture - conjuring up images of embers, flames, and the timeless art of wood-fired cooking. Upon entering, guests are greeted by the comforting aroma of pizza dough crisping to perfection and the smoky scent of oak and olive wood wafting through the air. Inside, rustic charm takes centre stage. Walls adorned with reclaimed wooden planks and vintage photographs from Montalbano Elicona's storied past create an ambience of warmth and nostalgia. Candle-lit tables under exposed wooden beams provide an intimate setting, perfect for both romantic evenings and joyous family gatherings. True to its name, the pizzeria boasts many artisanal pizzas, each crafted carefully. The dough is fermented using age-old recipes for optimal flavour, resulting in a crispy crust on the outside and tender within. Toppings from local farms range from classic Margherita to inventive combinations like 'Siciliana al Pistacchio', featuring a rich pistachio cream, salty prosciutto, and fragrant rosemary.

U Sicilianu restaurant and pastry bar is located in Via Principe Umberto in the heart of Montalbano Elicona, a well-known and stupendous medieval village in the province of Messina, located on the Nebrodi mountains a few kilometres from the sea. The owner, Vincenzo Lombardo, passionate about zero-kilometre organic cuisine, has brought the quality of the flavours of the Nebrodi to the table thanks to his passion for simplicity and Sicilian tradition. The local U Sicilianu, already present as a Bar and Pastry shop, has recently opened a much larger room, transforming the trattoria into a pizza restaurant. Trattoria, tavern, sandwich shop, bar, pastry shop and ice cream shop, U Sicilianu offers a complete, practical and convenient tourist menu. The restaurant is located in the centre of the village on the road leading to the medieval castle. Those who have already tried the fantastic pastry with pistachio sweets are invited to come back to taste the cuisine, too. Sicilian cuisine is known throughout the world for its many delights. However, The best-known recipes must be prepared in full compliance with ancient dictates and using locally sourced ingredients. Vincenzo Lombardo, owner of the restaurant, is passionate about typical products and knows this fascinating subject very well. Therefore, he selects the elements daily by choosing only the best. The raw material is strictly organic, and there is direct contact with the producers to constantly monitor the high quality offered to customers. The zero-kilometer ingredients of organic origin enrich the dishes with unique, unmistakable and inimitable flavours.

Land of millenary traditions and inimitable flavours, Sicily fascinates with its blue sea and its scorching sun but also with the verdant mountains from which fresh winds descend, smelling of oleander and myrtle. An environment full of charm that frames the Pizzeria Villa Sulla and influences the local cuisine, of which the Nebrodi black pig is the symbol. Raised in a semi-wild state in the woods of our Apennines, it gives those tasty and genuine cured meats we use to season our pizzas or make appetizing appetizers based on local cheeses, capocollo and salami. The unique territory of the Nebrodi and its millenary food and wine history are a source of inspiration for the menu of the Pizzeria Villa Sulla. With cereals and wholemeal flour, we prepare light and genuine pizzas with a rustic character, which go well with the flavor of the local cured meats. From the processing of cow's milk, the master cheesemakers of the Messina mountains obtain the provola, mozzarella and very fresh ricotta, which we use to season pizzas and prepare appetizers: dishes to be savored with craft beer or a sip of our DOC wines. And finally, don't miss the delicious desserts made with artisanal care and respect for tradition. Come and visit us in Montalbano Elicona: the Villa Sulla pizzeria awaits you to offer you the aromas and flavors of the Nebrodi.

Monilia, this is how the ancient Romans defined a place when it was of incomparable beauty, just like a jewel, a necklace. Here, perched on a hill in the hamlet of Casale in the municipality of Montalbano Elicona, where the great breath of nature welcomes yours, where everything becomes awe and wonder, the architect Michele Calcagno has managed to create an enchanting habitat, taking care of every particular, every detail with infinite patience, passion and dedication. The deception of man intertwines and merges with the grace of the place that determines its majesty, delivering moments of joy and quiet to visitors. You have to walk to see, observe and understand the charm and purity of the place, with its velvety sky, the colours of the broom, and the pomegranates that break into the stone. Here you will see the old dovecote surrounded by the rock that rises like a tower, skilfully transformed into a cellar; the large barn turned into a dining room, pervaded - thanks to the piped music - by an overwhelming background of rhythmic pulsations of jazz music, elegantly renovated where the stone mixes with the ancient wood while the dim light radiates into the environment creating an almost magical atmosphere; and "intimacy" becomes the preferred word. Then, the old barn aggregated to the farmhouse transformed into warm bedrooms furnished with taste and sobriety to spend pleasant days, in which the only friends, the moon and the stars, become silent. And the menu – replies the architect – is a surprise, perhaps a novelty, and we understand that it will be extraneous to conventional schemes but still respectful of the Sicilian gastronomic tradition. "Monilia" is beautiful because the architect's heart is not half in shadow and half bright; it is devoid of darkness and full of glare, a tumult of passion without brakes and without guidance, a proud will; he just listened to his heart, and with his heartbeats he made it happen. You, visitor, have to get to the Casale, just 4 km from Basicò, once Casale Novum, and 8 km from Montalbano Elicona, the most beautiful village in Italy, where you can breathe centuries of history because Frederick III of Aragon walked there and Eleanor of Anjou; and then, you'll see, you won't forget...