by
Matt Bird
Palazzolo Acreide is one of eight towns in the Val di Noto region awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status for its late Baroque architecture. Just a 30-minute drive from Noto, it is a beautiful day out. These are my favourite bars, patisseries, cafes and restaurants.
Corsino patisserie has made sweet delicacies for the local community for over 150 years. The Pastry Chef Vincenzo Monaco was named the #1 pastry chef in Italy, so you can safely expect to be surprised and delighted by anything you order.
Corsino is also well-known for its arancini. The arancini are the classic cone-shape symbolising Mt Etna and come in an array of fillings. They are best held by the peak and eaten from the base which avoids an unsightly mess!
Location: Via Nazionale 5
Instagram: Corsino
Infantino is the perfect pit stop for some afternoon refreshment as you peruse the streets of Palazzolo Acreide. I have enjoyed many a gelate, granite or gin at this popular location. A lovely alfresco sun spot at the front or on the hotter days retreat to lounge.
Location: Corso Vittorio Emanuele 18
Instagram: Infantino
At Piazza Giovanni Nigro there is a small bar, the name of which is illusive. It is frequented by locals who don’t speak English, so this is a moment to try out your Italian or resort to sign language. It’s amazing how you find ways to communicate when you want to order a drink!
Location: Piazza Giovanni Nigro
Instagram: NA
Gallo is as traditional as a Sicilian trattoria, as you will find. There is no written menu; the waiter will explain the options for the day, which usually include five different meat options. The mixed aperitivo plate is grande/large - so share and pace yourself! Their house wine is Marabino, which is one of Sicily's very best and very modestly priced.
Location: Via Roma 228
Instagram: Gallo
Estro Restaurant opens a Terrace Bar during the summer months. The breathtaking views of Mt Etna are the perfect accompaniment to a cocktail!
Location: Via Martiri di Via Fani 11
Instagram: Estro
Estro is a fine-dining restaurant served by Chef Giuseppe Luparelli. The menu offers an al la carte, which its international guests strongly prefer, and a selection of pizza and chips, which the locals tend to order. The pizza has always tempted me, but the al la carte menu is too good not to choose from. Of course, there is an extensive Italian wine list!
Location: Via Martiri di Via Fani 11
Instagram: Estro