Cheap Eats in Catania: Top 5 spots for delicious food and culinary memories
Just landed in Sicily and don’t know good dining spots in the neighborhood yet? Don’t worry, We created a suggestion list with the Top 5 Cheap Eats in Catania, scroll down to find out the best dishes that will satisfy your wallet and taste buds! We have something in hand for everyone: vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free… you name it.
A quick note before we begin…
Especially in summer, Catania is full of tourists, yet it still manages to feel deeply authentic and lived-in. One thing that surprises many travelers is that locals and visitors often eat in the same places, particularly in the historic center. Some of the best-known venues may look “touristy,” but they’re actually beloved by locals. These aren’t tourist traps – they’re part of the genuine local food scene.That said, we strongly recommend avoiding tourist menus, even if they seem like a good deal. They usually cost around €18 for a full meal (starter, pasta, main, dessert, and water), but the food is often standardized and forgettable — the same kind you’ll find in most European cities.
Instead, order just one excellent dish (like pasta alla Norma or swordfish involtini) with a glass of local wine. You’ll spend about the same and enjoy a far more authentic experience. Also worth noting: some of the best modern street food in Catania comes from gourmet fast-casual spots that reinvent Sicilian classics. They’re affordable, local, and full of life — you’ll find a few of them listed below.
Quick and flavourful goods at Scirocco Sicilian Fish Lab
Location: Piazza Alonzo di Benedetto, 7, 95121 Catania CT, Italy
Opening hours: Every day from 12pm – 11pm
A street food favorite right in the heart of the fish market. Here you’ll find Sicilian-style fried seafood served in paper cones, pani cunzatu, and local craft beer and wine: basically everything you need to dive into the southern Italian lifestyle. Thanks to its well-earned popularity, it’s best to plan for a bit of a wait, as there can be a queue. A full meal here can easily cost less than €10, and a glass of wine is only €3.50. You can sit inside or take your order to go and enjoy it outdoors.
Healthy but delicious Cheap Eats at La Cucina Dei Colori Catania
Location: Via S. Michele, 9, 95131 Catania CT, Italy
Opening hours: Tuesday – Sunday from 12:30pm – 3pm and from 7:30pm – 11pm (Sundays it reopens already at 7pm)
Just because you’re vegan or have a gluten intolerance doesn’t mean you have to miss out on traditional Sicilian dishes. (Do check with the staff before ordering to make sure there’s no risk of cross-contamination.) This spot is also great for anyone looking for a healthy yet delicious meal. Best of all, it’s a true cheap eats gem in Catania as you can get two dishes for just €12, three for €14, or four for €16! The menu changes daily, so you can come back several times during your stay and explore the full range of flavors.
A cold refreshment of the Sicilian heat at Comis Ice Cafè
Location: Piazza Vincenzo Bellini, 8/9, 95131 Catania CT, Italy
Opening hours: Monday – Thursday from 7:30am – 9:30pm and Friday – Sunday from 7:30am – 10:30pm
What’s a trip to Italy without tasting real gelato? Exactly, a big no-go. So don’t make that mistake and instead head to this tiny artisanal gelato shop just below the Teatro Massimo. They offer seasonal flavors, creative combinations, and high-quality ingredients. In addition to the fruit flavors, which are traditionally vegan, they also have vegan chocolate and almond gelato.
Cheap Street Eats at Canusciuti Cafe Catania
Location: Via Santa Maria della Lettera, 13, 95124 Catania CT, Italy
Opening hours: Tuesday – Sunday from 7:30am – 11pm
Arancini is Sicily’s most famous street food, and here you’ll discover the gourmet version with both traditional and creative fillings made from top-quality ingredients. It’s still very affordable, too! They also serve pizza and cannoli, and if you go for a combo pack, you can save even more. Plus, it’s a great spot for breakfast. I always love starting my day in Italy with a fresh cornetto e cappuccino.
An all time favourite is Vuciata Pasta Lab
Location: V. Gisira, 8, 95121 Catania CT, Italy
Opening hours: Every day from 10am – 11:30pm
We’ve all eaten our fair share of dry pasta and nevertheless we still love it. At this modern pasta spot, you can expect local ingredients and creative flavor combinations. I recommend trying the pistachio pesto with prawns or the swordfish ragù. The open kitchen lets you watch the chefs at work, adding to the lively and inviting atmosphere
Extra bonus
Stay at Ostello Degli Elefanti and enjoy the sunset, Aperol in hand, from their amazing rooftop bar.
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