A guide to the best restaurants in and near Zafferana Etnea
Zafferana Etnea, a picturesque town on the slopes of Mount Etna, is not only known for its breathtaking views and vibrant festivals but also for its incredible food scene. Whether you’re craving authentic Sicilian pasta, fresh seafood, or the town’s famous honey-infused dishes, Zafferana Etnea offers a variety of dining experiences that cater to every palate. From traditional trattorias to fine dining spots, here’s a guide to the best restaurants in Zafferana Etnea and nearby areas where you can savor the rich flavors of Sicily. All tips are coming from a local 😉
Best restaurants in Zafferana Etnea
Dolceria Salemi
Location: Via Eusebio Longo 28, Zafferana Etnea
Cuisine: Pastries, desserts, bakery
Must-try: Foglie da tè (biscuits), cassatella with ricotta
Price range: € - €€
Why visit? They have a special (secret) recipe for their biscuits. People from all over east Sicily come to this place to get them. Choose from hazelnut, almonds and pistachio.
Donna Peppina dal 1924
Location: Main square, Zafferana Etnea Cuisine: Pastries, desserts, bakery, café Must-try: Pizza Siciliana Price range: € - €€ Why visit? Located on the main square, you can enjoy your coffee with a local pastry, pizza Siciliana or arancino on the terrace while watching the movement on the square.
Il casale di Sallo
Location: Via Sparavita 8, Zafferana Etnea Cuisine: Trattoria, pizzeria Must-try: Pizza alla norma Price range: € - €€ Why visit? The restaurant offers a beautiful view over the town and the sea. It has a family vibe with very friendly people working there.
Sabir Gourmanderie
Location: Via delle Ginestre 1, Zafferana Etnea Cuisine: Italian, seafood Must-try: Risotto with grouper, broccoli and ricotta Price range: €€€ Why visit? This restaurant offers high quality food and has a Michelin star. Colourful Mediterranean cuisine with the occasional creative twist, yet always based on local specialities.
Antica Dolceria dell'Etna
Location: Via Giuseppe Garibaldi 309, Zafferana Etnea Cuisine: Bakery, pastries, gelateria, café Must-try: Granita with brioche Price range: € - €€ Why visit? Famous for its handcrafted pastries and honey-based desserts, this charming café is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Oro d'Etna
Location: Via S. Giacomo 135, Zafferana Etnea Cuisine: Local honey Must-try: Honey tasting platter with local cheese Price range: € Why visit? This is the perfect spot to experience Zafferana’s renowned honey. Visitors can taste different varieties and learn about the production process.
Il Castello di Bacco
Location: Piazza Umberto, Zafferana Etnea Cuisine: Sicilian, Mediterranean Must-try: Pasta alla norma, grilled swordfish Price range: €€- €€€ Why visit? Set in a beautiful historic building, this elegant restaurant serves traditional Sicilian dishes with a modern twist. Perfect for a romantic dinner with a view of Mount Etna.
Trattoria Ardichetto
Location: Contrada Ardichetto, Zafferana Etnea Cuisine: Traditional Sicilian, family-style Must-try: Homemade maccheroni with pork ragù Price range: € - €€ Why visit? A family-run gem known for its warm hospitality and rustic Sicilian flavors. Portions are generous, and the atmosphere feels like dining at a Sicilian grandmother’s home.
Best restaurants near Zafferana Etnea
Osteria Quattro archi
Location: Milo, 10 min from Zafferana Etnea Cuisine: Sicilian, Mediterranean Must-try: Maccu di Franco, salsiccia dell'Etna Price range: €€ Why visit? They offer a lot of slow food with much thought in the preparation and presentation. Also the interior of the restaurant is beautiful and feels like you're eating in someones house instead of a restaurant.
Pasticceria Ruso
Location: Santa Venerina, 5 min from Zafferana Etnea Cuisine: Pastries, desserts, bakery Must-try: Cornetto with honey Price range: € Why visit? It's a bakery from 1880. They have a wide selection of sweets and pastries. You should really go for the 'cornetto al miele', with local honey.
Cantine Murgo 1860
Location: Santa Venerina, 5 min from Zafferana Etnea Cuisine: Winery, Mediterranean Must-try: Wine tasting + lunch Price range: €€ Why visit? A beautiful winery with a large selection of Etna wines. You can stay for the lunch - expect to stay on the table for several hours to enjoy a lot of good food and wine. You can also visit the vineyard, which has a view of Etna.
Frumento
Location: Acireale, 25 min from Zafferana Etnea Cuisine: Pizza Must-try: Pizza La Gialla Price range: €€ Why visit? It has a beautiful terrace with a lot of lights, which gives it a really nice atmosphere. They have a wide selection of pizza - from traditional to pizza's with pistachio or potatoes.
Local food experiences
Are you interested in trying the local specialties? Each region in Sicily has it's own way to prepare food and has it's own specialties. Here are some things you should definitely try in the region of Zafferana Etna, Catania.
Eating out in Zafferana Etnea
Whether you’re looking for a cozy trattoria, a fine dining experience, or an authentic taste of Sicilian pastries, Zafferana Etnea’s food scene will not disappoint. With a mix of traditional flavors, fresh local ingredients, and breathtaking scenery, dining in this region is an unforgettable experience. Ready to indulge? Book your table at one of these fantastic restaurants today and enjoy the best of Sicilian cuisine!