A GUIDE TO EATING IN Catania

"Hidden Delights"

Once again, enough guide-books have covered the churches and sights in this crumbling city, so I concentrate on the important things: food & culture.

Researched heavily before going, and continuously asking locals for tips, this guide was the results of my 4 days in Catania. Take it for what it is, but the food spots are definitely worth trying and the bars/cafes were the ones I found most suitable to my vibes. 

​(CLICK ON PHOTOS FOR MAP LOCATIONS)

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​Ristorante Da Antonio

More than one person told me to avoid the fish market and all the "tourist traps" and head a few blocks over to this spot fawned over by locals. They were not wrong. Impeccable seafood, polite service, fair prices. A true gem.

Tip: Their speciality salad with tomatoes, cheese and spring onions is dynamite.

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​Antica Sicilia

My ageing hotel clerk recommended this restaurant. A step back in time, with waiters huffing and puffing to keep up with orders. Charm in buckets, flavour in spades. 

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​Arancineria Espresso Serafino

Arancini is a must in Sicily, and in Catania go where the locals do. Get the one with Ragu!

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​Savia

No trip to Catania is complete without a trip to Savia to try their Hazelnut gelato (Nocciola). Though it's not the best gelato i've had in my life, it's a rite of passage to grab one and eat it in Giardino Bellini opposite.

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​Cassatelle e Caffe

Followed closely by a trip up the road to Cassatelle e Caffe for an amazing sweet pastry.

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​Frequenza

Indie kids unite! Get your dose of underground realms here, with a radio station built into the centre of the bar! Aperitivo drinks come with a nice selection of nibbles.

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​BarnAut

Located in a shabby alleyway that enjoys full sunbeams in the afternoon is this curious little cafe/bar. Service is slow, but you don't really care when you're soaking up some rays.

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​Razmataz

This wine bar set in a square bedecked with graffiti cuts an alternative option for those tired of preppy cafe's. 

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These recommendations are just personal opinions based on my palate, things change, chefs get fired or replaced, places open-close, relocate, so take it all with a pinch of MSG  and discover your own gems too. But please do try a few of these, they have been researched exhaustively.