Taormina, perched high above the Ionian Sea, is a stunning town in Sicily known for its rich history, panoramic views, and, of course, its food. The restaurants in Taormina in Sicily reflect the town’s vibrant character, offering everything from traditional Sicilian trattorias to Michelin-starred dining experiences. Whether you’re savouring fresh seafood, a perfectly cooked pasta dish, or indulging in a sweet granita, Taormina’s food scene will leave you wanting more. Here’s our guide to the top 10 restaurants in Taormina that you should visit on your next trip to this beautiful part of Sicily.
Best Restaurants In Taormina In Sicily In 2024
Here is the list of top restaurants in Taormina in Sicily to taste Italian cuisine:
1. Osteria RossoDivino
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If you want to experience authentic Sicilian dishes with a modern touch, Osteria RossoDivino is the perfect spot. This cosy and intimate restaurant, located just a stone’s throw away from Taormina’s bustling Corso Umberto, serves classic dishes using local ingredients but with a contemporary twist. The restaurant’s rustic interiors and friendly service create a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it a favourite among locals and tourists.
Osteria RossoDivino is known for its attention to detail in every dish. The seafood risotto, featuring fresh prawns, is perfectly cooked, while the swordfish caponata offers a unique twist on the classic Sicilian vegetable dish. The restaurant’s wine list features some excellent local labels, allowing you to pair your meal with the best Sicilian wines.
Specialities: Risotto with Sicilian prawns, Swordfish caponata.
How to get there: A short walk from Corso Umberto, Taormina’s main street.
Average price: €35-€50 per person.
Best time to visit: Lunch or dinner for a laid-back meal.
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2. Ristorante Pizzeria Porta Messina
If you’re in the mood for a more casual meal, Ristorante Pizzeria Porta Messina offers the best of both worlds: mouthwatering wood-fired pizzas and classic seafood dishes. This family-friendly spot near the Porta Messina gate is perfect for a relaxed lunch or dinner. It’s especially popular with families and groups, thanks to its wide variety of options, from pizza to pasta and seafood.
Porta Messina’s wood-fired pizzas are the menu’s highlight, with the Margherita pizza being a crowd favourite. The seafood spaghetti, made with fresh clams, mussels, and prawns, is another standout dish. The laid-back vibe and quick service make it a great spot to stop by after a day of sightseeing.
Specialities: Margherita pizza, Seafood spaghetti.
How to get there: Near the Porta Messina gate, easily accessible from the city centre.
Average price: €15-€25 per person.
Best time to visit: Any time for a casual yet delicious meal.
3. La Capinera – Michelin-Starred Dining
For those seeking a more refined dining experience, La Capinera is a must-visit. Holding a Michelin star, this restaurant is renowned for its innovative use of seasonal ingredients and seafood-focused menu. Located just outside Taormina’s main town area, La Capinera offers stunning sea views, providing the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable meal.
Chef Pietro D’Agostino’s menu is a masterclass in Sicilian fine dining, with dishes like tuna tartare and linguine with sea urchins standing out for their freshness and flavour. The wine list is equally impressive, featuring a curated selection of local and international labels. La Capinera is ideal for a special occasion or romantic evening.
Specialities: Tasting menu with tuna tartare, Linguine with sea urchin.
How to get there: Located on Via Nazionale, just outside the town centre.
Average price: €80-€120 per person.
Best time to visit: Reserve for dinner to enjoy the sunset views.
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4. Trattoria Don Ciccio
If you’re looking for hearty, home-style cooking, Trattoria Don Ciccio is the place to go. This small trattoria is known for its warm atmosphere and delicious comfort food, such as pasta alla Norma and caponata. The restaurant is a favourite among locals, and its unpretentious vibe makes it perfect for a casual meal.
Trattoria Don Ciccio prides itself on using fresh, local ingredients, which shows in every dish. The pasta alla Norma, a classic Sicilian dish with eggplant, tomatoes, and ricotta salata, is a must-try. Pair your meal with a glass of house wine for the whole Sicilian experience.
Specialities: Pasta alla Norma, Caponata.
How to get there: Located near Piazza Duomo.
Average price: €20-€35 per person.
Best time to visit: Dinner for a cosy, laid-back experience.
5. Al Saraceno
Perched high above Taormina, Al Saraceno offers breathtaking panoramic views of the town, Mount Etna, and the Ionian Sea. This restaurant is ideal for a romantic dinner or a special celebration, as the stunning views combined with the excellent Mediterranean cuisine create a truly memorable dining experience.
Al Saraceno’s menu focuses on Mediterranean flavours with a Sicilian twist. The grilled swordfish is a highlight, served with local herbs and olive oil. The homemade ravioli, filled with ricotta and spinach, is another popular dish. Don’t forget to order a glass of Sicilian white wine to complete your meal.
Specialities: Grilled swordfish, Homemade ravioli.
How to get there: A short drive from the town centre, offering to park.
Average price: €40-€60 per person.
Best time to visit: Dinner time for a sunset view.
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6. Villa Antonio
Villa Antonio combines history and fine dining, offering an elegant experience in a historic villa. The restaurant is close to Taormina’s famous Greek Theatre, making it a perfect pre- or post-show dinner spot. With its refined atmosphere and a menu focused on fresh seafood, Villa Antonio is a favourite among visitors looking for an upscale dining experience.
The lobster risotto is a standout dish at Villa Antonio, cooked to perfection with creamy rice and fresh lobster. The octopus salad is another popular option, made with tender, marinated octopus and fresh herbs. Villa Antonio’s extensive wine list ensures you’ll find the perfect pairing for your meal.
Specialities: Lobster risotto, Octopus salad.
How to get there: Near the Greek Theatre, easily reachable by foot.
Average price: €60-€90 per person.
Best time to visit: Dinner for a romantic evening.
7. Il Barcaiolo
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Il Barcaiolo is a small, family-run seafood restaurant by the sea. It offers fresh, locally caught seafood in a relaxed setting. It’s an excellent spot for a more laid-back dining experience, with simple yet flavorful dishes that showcase the best of Sicily’s coastal cuisine.
The grilled octopus, served with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon, is a favourite among diners. The spaghetti with clams, another classic dish, is made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Il Barcaiolo’s rustic charm and casual vibe make it an excellent place to have a relaxing meal after exploring.
Specialities: Grilled octopus, Spaghetti with clams.
How to get there: Close to Isola Bella, accessible by a short walk.
Average price: €30-€50 per person.
Best time to visit: Lunch or early dinner for a relaxed meal by the sea.
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8. Bam Bar – For the Best Granita
Bam Bar is not a traditional restaurant but a must-visit spot in Taormina for anyone with a sweet tooth. Known for serving the best granita in town, Bam Bar offers a variety of flavours, including pistachio, almond, and lemon, all made with fresh, local ingredients. The granita is traditionally served with a brioche, making for the perfect afternoon snack.
The pistachio granita, made with Sicilian pistachios, is a must-try. For something more traditional, opt for the lemon granita, which offers a refreshing burst of flavour. Bam Bar’s cosy atmosphere and friendly service make it the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a Sicilian dessert.
Specialities: Granita, Brioche.
How to get there: Located on Via di Giovanni, near Corso Umberto.
Average price: €5-€10 per person.
Best time to visit: Afternoon for a refreshing treat.
9. Ristorante L’Arco dei Cappuccini
L’Arco dei Cappuccini is known for its beautiful terrace and welcoming atmosphere, making it an excellent spot for lunch and dinner. The restaurant offers traditional Sicilian and Mediterranean cuisine, with dishes like grilled lamb chops and seafood risotto taking centre stage.
Grilled lamb chops seasoned with local herbs and spices are a favourite among diners. The seafood risotto, made with fresh clams, mussels, and shrimp, is another standout dish. With its relaxed ambience and excellent service, L’Arco dei Cappuccini is a top choice for those seeking a delightful dining experience.
Specialities: Grilled lamb chops, Seafood risotto.
How to get there: Near Corso Umberto.
Average price: €40-€60 per person.
Best time to visit: Lunch or dinner for a scenic meal on the terrace.
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10. Tiramisu – Perfect for Dessert Lovers
Tiramisu is the perfect place for those with a sweet tooth to indulge in various desserts, including its namesake tiramisu. While the restaurant also serves a selection of savoury dishes, the real star is the dessert menu. From traditional tiramisu to ricotta cheesecake, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your sweet cravings.
The restaurant’s signature dish is the classic tiramisu, made with layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone, and cocoa. For something a little different, try the ricotta cheesecake, which combines the creaminess of ricotta with a sweet, tangy topping. Tiramisu’s cosy atmosphere and excellent desserts make it a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Specialities: Classic tiramisu, Ricotta cheesecake.
How to get there: Just off Corso Umberto.
Average price: €20-€30 per person.
Best time to visit: After dinner for a sweet treat.
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Taormina offers a delightful array of dining experiences, from cosy trattorias to Michelin-starred restaurants, each showcasing the best Sicilian and Italian cuisine. Whether you’re enjoying a casual pizza or indulging in gourmet seafood, the restaurants in Taormina in Sicily will make your dining experience unforgettable. Book a trip to Italy and explore the rich flavours of this beautiful island.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Restaurants In Taormina In Sicily
What is the best time to visit restaurants in Taormina?
The best time to visit Taormina is during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant, and restaurants are less crowded.
Are there any Michelin-starred restaurants in Taormina?
Yes, La Capinera is a Michelin-starred restaurant in Taormina, known for its fine dining and seafood specialties.
What Sicilian dishes should I try in Taormina?
Don’t miss Sicilian classics like pasta alla Norma, arancini, caponata, and fresh seafood such as swordfish and clams.
Is Taormina expensive for dining?
Dining in Taormina can range from affordable trattorias to upscale restaurants, with meal prices varying from €15 to €120 per person.
Can I find vegetarian and vegan options in Taormina?
Yes, many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, especially with Sicilian ingredients like eggplant, tomatoes, and fresh herbs.
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