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FOOD
There are quite a few must-try dishes beyond just the general pasta and pizza that you'll want to try when you come to Eastern Sicily. Here are just a few you'll love along with information about the closest restaurants to the apartments and how to get food delivered to the apartment.
Swordfish
Seafood is at the heart of Eastern Sicilian cuisine, thanks to its prime location along the Ionian Sea, where fresh catches are a daily way of life. Among all the local specialties, swordfish (pesce spada) stands out as a true regional favorite. Grilled, baked, or served in pasta, it’s known for its rich flavor and meaty texture, often paired simply with olive oil, lemon, and herbs to let the quality shine. Dining on seafood here isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience rooted in tradition, freshness, and the deep connection between the sea and Sicilian culture.
Ricotta Cannoli
Authentic Sicilian cannoli are a true taste of tradition and far different from what many people have experienced elsewhere. In Sicily, cannoli are made fresh to order, with crisp, golden shells filled on the spot to maintain their signature crunch. The filling is made from high-quality sheep’s milk ricotta, giving it a rich, creamy texture that is lightly sweet—not overly sugary. Often finished with local pistachios, candied orange peel, or a dusting of powdered sugar, real Sicilian cannoli are all about balance, freshness, and simple ingredients done exceptionally well. It’s a dessert that reflects the heart of Sicilian culture—unpretentious, flavorful, and unforgettable.
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To date our FAVORITE ones have come from Taromina!
Granita & Brioche
Granita is a beloved Sicilian specialty that sits somewhere between a sorbet and a finely shaved ice, but with a smoother, more luxurious texture. Made from simple ingredients like water, sugar, and fresh local flavors—such as lemon, almond, coffee, or pistachio—it’s incredibly refreshing, especially in the warm Sicilian climate. In Eastern Sicily, it’s traditionally enjoyed for breakfast, often served with a soft, slightly sweet brioche bun for dipping or scooping. While it might seem unusual to visitors, this light, cool start to the day is perfectly suited to the region’s heat and lifestyle, offering a refreshing alternative to heavier morning meals.
Pasta alla Norma
Pasta alla Norma is one of Eastern Sicily’s most iconic and beloved dishes, originating in Catania. Made with simple, fresh ingredients, it features pasta tossed in a rich tomato sauce, topped with fried eggplant, grated ricotta salata, and fresh basil. The dish perfectly reflects the region’s culinary style—bold flavors built from humble ingredients. Named after the famous opera Norma by Catania-born composer Vincenzo Bellini, it’s often said to be a “perfect” dish, just like the opera itself. Whether enjoyed in a local trattoria or a seaside restaurant, Pasta alla Norma is a must-try taste of authentic Sicilian tradition.
Order groceries ahead
Supermercati (local grocery stores) are a convenient and helpful option for stocking up during your stay, especially if you’d prefer to have essentials ready when you arrive. Many offer delivery services, but it’s important to place your order at least 24 hours in advance to ensure availability and scheduling. One of the best parts is that the groceries are delivered directly to the apartment—and in many cases, brought all the way up to you. Just be sure to plan to be there at the scheduled delivery time, as someone must be present to receive the order. The closest larger supermercato offering this type of service is about 30 minutes away, so planning ahead is key. It’s an easy way to settle in and start enjoying your stay right away.
Ganzirri
The closest town to Aqualarone with restaurants is a beautiful lakeside town named Ganzirri. It's about a 15 minute drive to the town. You can take a bus, but its a bit more complicated. Getting an uber would be almost impossible.
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There are many wonderful places to eat here but our favorite is a place named Paquito where the pasta is amazing and the meatballs are out of this world.
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