Wine and dine in Taormina…
- Else-Marie Kasmer
- Feb 15
- 4 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
During our two months in Taormina, we have explored many dining spots, and here we share our favorites. First up are three restaurants that have truly impressed us with their gastronomic experiences. Additionally, we highlight three osterias that serve delicious homemade dishes in a warm and inviting atmosphere. We have also found our favorite pizzeria and gelateria, as well as two bars at Piazza IX Aprile where we love to enjoy an aperitivo while planning our evening. Some of these places close in January and February for the winter break.
VINERIA MODÌ…
Vineria Modì earned its first Michelin star this winter – and we think it was well deserved. This elegant yet intimate restaurant offers outstanding service, both warm and professional.
We opted for a six-course tasting menu and were absolutely delighted by the food. To our great surprise and joy, they had our favorite wine from Campania – Fiorduva from Marisa Cuomo. This is the perfect spot for those who love high-quality gastronomic experiences. We visited in early January, just before they closed for the winter break, and we will definitely be returning.
OSTERIA ROSSODIVINO…
Everything about this charming place is just right – the food, the service, and the ambiance. Guests sit outside in a lovely courtyard, with beautifully set tables and small cozy lights that are turned on as the evening falls. The cuisine here is considered among the best in Taormina, and we wholeheartedly agree. The food was fantastic!
Ingredients are fresh and locally sourced straight from the fish market each morning. The wine selection features local Sicilian wines, and the staff is excellent at recommending pairings to complement your meal. Their expertise allows you to sit back and enjoy their recommendations to the fullest.
ADDUMA…
A blend of bar and grill, Adduma offers a super cozy atmosphere where guests sit outdoors in a garden with hand-painted tables, creating a laid-back vibe. They combine meals with custom-crafted cocktails, making for a creative and flavorful experience. A cool spot with great food and excellent drinks.
OSTERIA VILLA ZUCCARO…
A classic osteria open all year round, offering an à la carte menu at moderate prices. This welcoming spot has a large terrace open during the summer and friendly service. Their menu includes well-known Italian classics as well as Sicilian specialties. If you're looking for a dining spot along Corso Umberto, this is a great choice.
OSTERIA DA RITA…
We finally visited this Instagram-famous osteria – and it lived up to the hype! Serving delicious homemade dishes, generous portions, and reasonably priced food and wine, this spot has an incredibly welcoming staff and a classic Italian aesthetic. Dining outdoors in the side streets is a wonderful experience, and during summer evenings, it must be incredibly romantic. The checkered tablecloths and charming surroundings create an authentic Italian vibe in one of the most picturesque streets in Taormina (in our opinion).
OSTERIA DE GUSTIBUS
This super cozy osteria has only a few tables inside. It is a family-run restaurant where everyone pitches in. They serve classic, simple Sicilian dishes – nothing fancy or modern, just the way it has been done for generations. A friendly and down-to-earth place with great prices.
LA ROMANA PIZZERIA
What a find! If you love Roman-style pizza, this is the place to go in Taormina. The pizzas have an ultra-thin, crispy crust and taste absolutely heavenly. When the weather allows, guests can enjoy their pizza on a spacious terrace in a charming courtyard. A fantastic spot with great service and a lovely setting. The prices are reasonable, offering great value for money.
This pizzeria is part of a group of five restaurants in Taormina, including Osteria Villa Zuccaro, where we also had a wonderful dining experience. They also run a Neapolitan pizzeria for those who prefer the classic Neapolitan style with thick crusts and a soft center.
GELATERIA DON PEPPINU
Yes, it’s "just" a gelateria, and there are plenty of them along Corso Umberto. But none offer as stunning a courtyard terrace as this one, where enjoying gelato feels like sitting inside a painting. Don Peppinu’s gelato is known as one of the best in Sicily (puffed or not puffed). Delicious!
APERITIVO AT PIAZZA IX APRILE
Piazza IX Aprile, located in the heart of Taormina along the main street, is the perfect place to sit down for an aperitivo in the afternoon – whether you're planning dinner at a restaurant or just need a break. Watching the people go by while soaking in the atmosphere is pure joy. Here are our favorite spots:
WUNDERBAR…
This bar is ideally located on Corso Umberto, right next to Piazza IX Aprile. It offers a spectacular view of both the sea and the square. Yes, it is a popular tourist spot – but with such a prime location, it’s no surprise.
We find this place perfect for an early morning breakfast or an afternoon aperitivo. It’s a fantastic spot to people-watch and soak in the lively street scenes.
MOCAMBA BAR - DOLCE GABBANA
This luxurious bar at Piazza IX Aprile is part of the Dolce & Gabbana store. They serve exquisite aperitifs and cocktails, and we have been very impressed with their curated wine selection. While the drink prices are relatively high, they include generous and delicious aperitivo platters. The service is impeccable.
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