Vico Astemio — Restaurant in Riposto

Fantastic modern Sicilian in Riposto. We were recommended by the chef's sister, who runs a fabulous wine shop around the corner. We loved Astemio so much we returned the same week. Chef Maxi's food is wonderful, inspired Sicilian. Pristine, simple marinated fish - Tuna, Anchovy, Scampi, Spada and cuttlefish, perfect with sea salt and virgin olive oil. Delicious ethereal platter of fritto di mare - breaded tuna, head-on shrimp, small fish and squid - light and perfectly cooked. Seriously the best pastas we ate in 3 weeks in Sicily - brilliant ! Crema di Vongole & Bottarga perfectly executed that tasted like the ocean, one of the most unique things I've eaten in a restaurant. Perfect Pasta a la Sarde with wild fennel and tomato - gorgeous. All of the entrees we tried were amazing . Grilled Tuna, whole grilled fish, Sardines, Swordfish. Every single one perfectly cooked - not a minute too long- - and presented in their beautiful simplicity. The Zuppa di Mare was absolutely sublime - a flavor packed, rich broth, thickened with tomato, small fish,scampi, shrimp and mussels - all expertly cooked - I'll think about that dish any time I order fish soup again - it's my new standard ! The mostly Sicilian WIne List was perfect for the menu. Many top value whites and sparkling, with most bottles under 30 euros. We enjoyed several of the classic Mt Etna whites from Vivera, Antichi Vinai, Al Cantara,Costanzo, etc etc. The staff were extremely kind and professional. They bought us dessert on both visits and of course ended our meal with Limoncello ! The chef even visited to check on our meal. We loved sitting outside in the Sicilian summer evening . A wonderful place - food, wine and value ! Don't miss it if...

It was simply outstanding! We all had the four-course surprise menu, which was repeatedly complemented by small greetings from the kitchen. Some of us chose the meat option, others the fish, so we were able to try a wide variety of dishes.

We started off with a drink, which at €10 was very reasonably priced — and turned out to be one of the best Negronis I’ve ever had.

From a huge wine selection filled with fantastic niche wines and renowned vineyards, we were recommended a wonderful natural wine. Bottles range from around €20 to well over €100. What we really appreciated was that the recommendation wasn’t aimed at selling us the most expensive option, but rather a delightful bottle for just €28.

The food was perfectly balanced, and I had the best artichoke I’ve ever eaten. Every dish showcased pure, intense flavors and was prepared in a way that highlighted the individual ingredients and spices, leaving you wanting to never rinse your mouth again.

Even for our little three-year-old guest, they quickly prepared a simple but absolutely delicious pasta dish, followed by a fantastic white chocolate ice cream.

Despite some minor language barriers, the service was extremely pleasant, friendly, and attentive.

The restaurant itself charms with its historic character in the walls and personal touches in the interior design.

Even with about 90% occupancy, the atmosphere remained relaxed enough to enjoy a good conversation and fully concentrate on the culinary experience.

For us, it was a true 10/10 — an absolute must-visit if you’re...

Arrogant, das Restaurant hat keine Gäste nötig, selbst unser Angebot Innen zu sitzen hat nicht gefruchtet. Die haben es einfach nicht nötig. So etwas sollte kein Unterstützung finden!!!

Arrogant, the restaurant doesn't need guests, even our offer to sit inside didn't work, although everything was empty. A 20-year-old waiter didn't want any guests.....They simply don't need it. This kind of thing should not be supported! A ridiculous restaurant

What you say is not true. You did have two free small tables in the outside area, only for 2 people, but this would have been enough for us. One of your waitresses would even have assigned us the seat, but your young waiter didn't want to. It is your decision how you serve your guests. But you should take this seriously. We frequent many restaurants in the upper price range, if a guest is content with a table inside in high summer, you should agree to that, that is my opinion. You say it is natural that a restaurant like yours is fully booked now, as I...