Where to eat in Palermo?

The Best Places where to Eat in Palermo

When it comes to food, Palermo is unbeatable. And we know how important it is to refuel after walking every inch of the city. Between restaurants, trattorias, bars, and rotisseries, eating in the Sicilian capital is a true gastronomic experience. So let’s not waste any more time: here are all the best spots to enjoy the very best of Sicilian cuisine.

Palermo's Historic Markets: The Kingdom of Street Food

To experience Palermo like a true local, you can't miss its historic markets. With their aromas, flavors, and colors, make sure to visit these spots to taste unique specialties.

• Vucciria Market: a must for those who want to discover the most authentic Palermo, this is one of the city's oldest markets. Get lost among the stalls and try the traditional stigghiola.
• Ballarò Market: open on both Saturdays and Sundays, Ballarò is one of the city’s most iconic spots. Don’t miss the arancine, especially the classic ones with ragù and peas. For street food lovers, there are cazzilli (potato croquettes), pane e panelle (chickpea fritters in a bun), and sfincione, a thick and fluffy pizza topped with tomato, anchovies, onions, and caciocavallo cheese.
• Il Capo Market: open every day of the week—and luckily so! There’s so much food to taste that you might not have enough time. Try cones of fried fish, battered vegetables, grilled calamari, eggplants, and much more.

Where to Eat in Palermo: Restaurants

Downtown Palermo is full of restaurants ready to serve the best traditional Sicilian recipes. 

• Nni Franco U Vastiddaru: don’t be fooled by the modest appearance. On Via Vittorio Emanuele, you’ll find a warm welcome and the authentic taste of Palermo’s cuisine. The star dish here is the spleen sandwich, best enjoyed with lemon juice and slices of caciocavallo cheese.
• Osteria Al Ferro Di Cavallo: historic and traditional, this osteria on Via Venezia is the perfect spot to taste all the classics of Sicilian cuisine. The only way to book is by going with a group—a great excuse to enjoy good food together!
• Trattoria al Vecchio Club Rosanero: hidden between the alleys of Vucciria and Il Capo, this historic trattoria is perfect for lunch or dinner with friends. Generous portions and an old-timey atmosphere make it a must-stop on your food tour.
• Buatta Cucina Popolana: if you’re looking for a modern spot, this stylish place on Corso Vittorio Emanuele is your best bet. From their open kitchen, try the pasta with sardines and broccoli—a must-order. The same owners also run Gagini, a luxury restaurant in La Cala; Aja Mola, a top-notch seafood place; and Bocum, a refined wine bar.

Bars, Gelato Shops, and Bakeries to Try Palermo’s Sweet Treats

How could we leave out Palermo’s traditional sweets? Besides all the savory delicacies, Palermo also knows how to win over dessert lovers.

• Pasticceria Cappello: the original Setteveli cake was invented right here, behind the Norman Palace. Enjoy every bite of this seven-layer mousse cake.
• I Segreti del Chiostro: born as a project to preserve ancient Palermitan pastry traditions, it’s located inside the Church of Santa Caterina. The cannoli and almond paste cookies are irresistible.
• Pasticceria e Rosticceria Ganci: located in the La Cala area, this shop offers a wide selection of freshly baked and fried goods. 
• Brioscià: if you want to try the famous brioche with gelato, there’s no better place than this amazing gelateria in the historic center.

Now that you know the tastiest spots in Palermo, it’s time to plan your well-deserved vacation. It might seem like there’s a lot to do—but don’t worry! By staying at our B&B Hotel Palermo Quattro Canti, right in the heart of the historic center, you can reach all the main attractions on foot with ease.