Up for a tasty stroll through Palermo’s food scene? The stylish capital of Sicily is one for the foodies. Between the Michelin-starred restaurants, humble osterias, quirky wine bars and vibrant street markets serving fresh street food, the city’s known for its culinary delights. Let us give you the lowdown on the best spots to grab a bite or sit down in for a treat on your break… 

Funnaco Pizza Lab  

You need to grab a table at this self-proclaimed ‘pizza lab’. They experiment with a variety of doughs to offer up one of the most innovative pizza experiences in Palermo. Sounds tasty, right? The signature Funnaco is a go-to – topped with buffalo mozzarella, a variety of sweet tomatoes, and olive oil caviar, it’s then smoked to give it extra flavour! Or change it up and order one of their crunch pizzas – get set for a textural explosion with an extra-crispy crust that’s airy and soft inside. Wash this all down with an ice-cold craft beer or crisp local wine. 

Osteria Villena  

This humble eatery is perfectly placed in the historical Palazzo di Rudinì. Delve into bruschetta with a trio of fresh sweet tomatoes, ricotta and anchovies, and caponata (fried aubergine and vegetables). It’s the prime place to grab a traditional bite to eat! Make sure to try the fresh gnocchi and pair it with a classic spritz or a glass of wine. Enjoy the true taste of authentic Palermo at this unassuming osteria. Looking for somewhere a bit more low-key? This might just be the spot! 

Seven Restaurant Palermo  

Who doesn’t love a rooftop restaurant? Boasting one of the highest views in the city is Seven. The restaurant serves cuisine celebrating Sicily with hints of the Mediterranean and a signature cocktail menu made to impress (but not forgetting the classics like an Aperol spritz, of course). Order fresh seafood dishes with a twist such as grilled octopus with yellow lentil mousse or buffalo burrata with grilled peaches and tarragon. If you fancy a treat, this is the place. And don’t forget to order a cocktail from their specially curated list – this tipple is camera-roll worthy!  

Dal Barone  

After a morning of ambling around the city, get comfy and sit down at Dal Barone for a late-afternoon drink. Imagine sipping a dry yet refreshing natural wine and snacking on a light bite at this quaint spot. This hidden gem has an endless wine list, including Sicilian whites, Rosati and pet-nats (sparkling wine that ferments in the bottle). There’s something for every palate. And each one goes so brilliantly with local artisanal products, like fresh bread, meats, cheeses and olives from specially selected small farmers. This little indie promises great wine and a relaxed atmosphere!

Ballarò Market 

It wouldn’t be a city break without stopping for street food. Take a walk in Ballarò Market – one of the oldest street markets in Palermo, echoing beautiful Middle Eastern souks in its design. Browse handmade trinkets and grab a fresh bite to eat. Tuck into golden, crispy arancini (piping-hot risotto balls) or panelle (chickpea fritters), which are firm favourites. If you're keen on just-netted seafood, Ballarò Market has an abundance – oysters and sea urchins are big business. Finish off with a Sicilian cannoli, filled with sweet ricotta and sprinkled with pistachio. 

MEC Restaurant  

Sicily is known for gastronomic excellence, so if you’re looking for Michelin-starred tasting menus, set your sights on MEC Restaurant. It’s a unique and contemporary concept with a focus on style, elegance and vision, where head chef Carmelo Trentacosti draws on the scents and flavours of Sicily. The restaurant is located in a beautifully renovated 16th-century palazzo with museum-like exhibitions throughout. This polished space is the answer to fine dining in Palermo and promises well-balanced and innovative Sicilian-inspired dishes. Sounds tempting, doesn’t it? Just make sure to book ahead!