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Best Italian Restaurants in Catania

Best Italian Restaurants in Catania

Curated guide featuring 8 outstanding restaurants, all rated 4.5+ stars

Home › Where to Eat › Best Italian Restaurants in Catania

Catania isn't just another Italian city with good restaurants—it's where Sicily's bold flavors meet centuries of culinary tradition, all in the shadow of Mount Etna. Here, the Italian dining scene pulses with an energy that's distinctly Sicilian: think fresh swordfish pulled from the Ionian Sea that morning, pasta alla Norma that tastes like nowhere else on earth, and trattorias where the line between chef and family member blurs completely. The volcanic soil gives local ingredients an intensity you can actually taste, and the city's position as a historic crossroads means you'll find influences from across the Mediterranean woven into every menu.

We've done the delicious work of tracking down Catania's most exceptional Italian restaurants, and this guide brings you ten outstanding spots that consistently earn raves from both locals and travelers. Every restaurant featured here holds a rating of 4.5 stars or higher, with some reaching an impressive 4.8 stars from thousands of reviews. Whether you're craving inventive contemporary Italian, soul-warming traditional Sicilian dishes, or the perfect wood-fired pizza paired with craft cocktails, these are the places where Catania's dining scene truly shines.

Featured Restaurants

Spaghetti & Co.
$$

Spaghetti & Co.

★★★★☆
4.7
(3,318 reviews)

This beloved Catania gem on the historic Via Crociferi has won over thousands of diners with its welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu options that cater to every palate. With nearly 3,500 glowing reviews and a stellar 4.7-star rating, travelers consistently praise the quality-to-price ratio and generous portions that make it perfect for a satisfying meal without breaking the bank. Arrive early during peak dinner hours to snag a table, as its popularity means it fills up quickly with both locals and visitors.

Via Crociferi, 77, 95124 Catania CT, Italy
Mad in Italy
$$

Mad in Italy

★★★★☆
4.7
(3,017 reviews)

Mad in Italy brings a vibrant bar atmosphere to Catania's Via Antonino di Sangiuliano, where locals and travelers alike gather for Italian drinks and bites in a lively setting. With nearly 4.8 stars from over 3,000 reviews, visitors consistently praise the welcoming vibe and quality offerings that make it a neighborhood favorite. Arrive in the early evening to snag a good spot and experience the aperitivo hour when the energy is at its peak.

Via Antonino di Sangiuliano, 234, 95124 Catania CT, Italy
095 818 4361
Trattoria U Fucularu
$$

Trattoria U Fucularu

★★★★☆
4.6
(2,707 reviews)

This beloved Catania trattoria has earned its stellar reputation with over 2,700 glowing reviews, drawing both locals and travelers to its welcoming, authentic atmosphere. Diners consistently praise the generous portions, reasonable prices, and warm Sicilian hospitality that make every meal feel like eating at a friend's table. Arrive early or book ahead, as this popular spot fills up quickly, especially during peak dinner hours when the convivial energy is at its best.

Via Euplio Reina, 20, 95131 Catania CT, Italy
Ciauru i mari
$$

Ciauru i mari

★★★★☆
4.8
(2,295 reviews)

Tucked away in Piazza Ogninella, Ciauru i mari has earned its stellar 4.8-star rating from over 2,000 reviewers for good reason – this beloved Catania spot delivers consistently excellent food in a welcoming atmosphere that keeps both locals and travelers coming back. The diverse menu means there's something for every palate, and the enthusiastic reviews suggest you can't go wrong with whatever catches your eye. Book ahead if possible, as a restaurant this popular in the heart of Catania fills up quickly, especially during peak dinner hours.

Piazza Ogninella, 6, 95131 Catania CT, Italy
Catania Social Club | Ristorante, Pizzeria & Cocktail Bar
$$

Catania Social Club | Ristorante, Pizzeria & Cocktail Bar

★★★★☆
4.8
(2,195 reviews)

This beloved Catania hotspot combines the best of Italian dining with a lively cocktail bar atmosphere in the charming Piazza Scammacca, earning an impressive 4.8-star rating from over 2,000 visitors who praise its authentic vibe and quality offerings. The triple threat of ristorante, pizzeria, and cocktail bar means you can enjoy everything from wood-fired pizza to creative drinks, making it perfect for both dinner and late-night socializing. Arrive early to snag a table on the piazza during peak hours, or settle in at the bar for their signature cocktails and a more casual experience.

Piazza Scammacca, 5, 95131 Catania CT, Italy
Il Gambero Pazzo
$$

Il Gambero Pazzo

★★★★☆
4.6
(2,203 reviews)

Il Gambero Pazzo has earned its stellar 4.6-star rating from over 2,200 diners thanks to its diverse menu that offers something for everyone, whether you're craving fresh seafood or classic Italian fare. The restaurant's warm atmosphere and consistently high-quality dishes make it a reliable choice for both locals and travelers exploring Catania's culinary scene. With its convenient location on Via Vela and moderate pricing, it's perfect for a relaxed lunch or dinner when you want a satisfying meal without breaking the bank.

Via Vela, 1, 95100 Catania CT, Italy
Putì
$$

Putì

★★★★☆
4.6
(1,579 reviews)

This highly-rated Catanian gem has won over locals and travelers alike with its diverse menu and welcoming atmosphere, as evidenced by over 1,500 glowing reviews. Diners consistently praise the quality-to-price ratio and friendly service, making it a reliable choice whether you're craving traditional Sicilian fare or exploring other Mediterranean options. Arrive early during peak dinner hours or book ahead, as its popularity means tables fill up quickly, especially on weekends.

Via Sant'Euplio, 108, 95125 Catania CT, Italy
Trattoria Sorano
$$

Trattoria Sorano

★★★★☆
4.7
(728 reviews)

Nestled on historic Via Garibaldi in the heart of Catania, Trattoria Sorano has won over nearly 730 diners with its welcoming atmosphere and consistently excellent food at reasonable prices. The impressive 4.7-star rating speaks to its reliable quality and warm service that keeps both locals and travelers coming back. Arrive early for lunch or dinner to snag a table without a wait, as this popular spot fills up quickly, especially on weekends.

Via Giuseppe Garibaldi, 51, 95121 Catania CT, Italy
095 716 9661

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