Best Places to Eat in Palermo

Palermo’s Street Food Heaven

When wandering through Palermo, Italy’s vibrant capital city of Sicily, one’s senses are treated to a kaleidoscope of flavors and aromas. The city’s street food scene is renowned for its authentic, mouthwatering eats that will satisfy even the most discerning palates. Here are some of the best places to eat in Palermo:

Cannoli from Caffè Spinnato

While not exclusively a street food shop, Caffè Spinnato’s cannoli are a must-try when visiting Palermo. This historic cafe has been serving Sicily’s most famous dessert since 1905. Their cannoli are crispy shells filled with sweet ricotta cheese and chocolate chips, making for the perfect treat after a long day of exploring.

Panelle from a Street Vendor

Panelle (Sicilian-style pancake) is a popular street food in Palermo, made with chickpea flour, water, salt, and sometimes tomato sauce. You can find these delicious pancakes at any of the numerous street vendors throughout the city. They’re often served as a snack or light meal, accompanied by a side of fresh vegetables.

Arancini from Street Vendors or Local Cafes

Arancini (Sicilian rice balls) are another staple in Palermo’s street food scene. These crispy fried balls are filled with various ingredients such as meat ragù, cheese, peas, and sometimes tomato sauce. They’re perfect for a quick snack on-the-go.

Fresh Fruits from a Street Market

Palermo’s street markets offer an array of fresh fruits throughout the year. Visit any of these bustling markets to taste the sweetest oranges, grapefruits, or mandarins during their respective seasons. The vibrant colors and enticing aromas will leave you wanting more.

Sfincione from a Local Shop

Sfincione is a Sicilian-style pizza that’s essentially a thick crust topped with tomato sauce, cheese, anchovies, and sometimes ham. This street food favorite can be found in many local shops throughout the city. Be sure to try it when you’re in Palermo.

Granita from a Local Cafe

Palermo’s granita is a refreshing dessert made from crushed ice flavored with coffee, almond, or lemon. Visit any of the local cafes and ask for “granita” – they’ll be happy to serve you a glass of this Sicilian treat.

Conclusion

Palermo’s street food scene offers a culinary journey through the flavors and traditions of Sicily. From cannoli to panelle, arancini, fresh fruits, sfincione, and granita, there’s something for every palate in this vibrant city. Be sure to explore these must-try eats when visiting Palermo – your taste buds will thank you!