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We've compiled the best of the best in Sicily - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
Although listed as a museum on Google Maps, Spazio Pitta is a vibrant bar and restaurant featuring art from Sicilian artists throughout its space. The art ranges from colorful oil paintings to intricate sculptures adorning the patio with a city view. Sip on a limoncello spritz while snacking on a selection from the antipasti list, which includes delicious arancini, cured meats, and cheeses. Get there early if you want to grab a table, as it gets busy, especially on weekends.
This knickknack-filled bar has lorded over Castelmola's town square since 1907, and if you manage to resist the pull of the enchanting view on the terrace, you can explore the historic interior to learn more about the village's past. Try the vino alle mandorle (almond wine) from a recipe produced by the original owner more than a century ago, then follow luminaries such as Guglielmo Marconi, Winston Churchill, John D. Rockefeller, and John Steinbeck by signing the visitors' book.
Don't expect too much from the nightlife scene here, but this decent café comes with plenty of tables outside on the main (and pedestrianized) shopping street, so it's a good place to sit and watch Mazara life pass by. Stop for a coffee or an evening aperitivo, when aperols or Campari spritzes come accompanied by tasters of panelle (chickpea-flour fritters), arancini, and crocchè (potato croquettes).
Truly one of the most infamous places to have a drink in all of Italy, this bar has cozy nooks and crannies on three levels—all decked out with phallic images of every size, shape, and color imaginable, from bathroom wall murals inspired by the brothels of ancient Greece to giant wooden carvings honoring Dionysus. If you can get past the design choices, the roof terrace has extraordinary views of Taormina and the coast, while a limited selection of hearty pasta dishes are served inside.
In a neighborhood peppered with late-night bars and restaurants, this slightly grungy bar stands out for its nightly live music—mainly mellow jazz or folk—or more energetic DJ sets. The interior is tiny, but most people hang out around tables in the piazza. A good range of beers, wines, and cocktails is available.
Easy to find on the main drag of town, this lively spot is made livelier by jazzy piano playing. Visitors enjoy cocktails, local beers, and wines, and should not be surprised if they get drawn into a friendly chat. Antipasti, bruschetta, and panini complement the drinks. It's popular, so be prepared for a bit of a squeeze.
