Ristorante Sicilia in Tavola — Restaurant in Syracuse

Tucked into one of Ortigia’s narrow stone streets, Ristorante Sicilia in Tavola serves exactly what the name promises—Sicily, on a plate.

We came here for dinner and were immediately greeted with that kind of warm, no-frills welcome that makes you feel like you’re about to eat something special. And we were right.

I started with the tartara di pesce, which was hands-down one of the freshest, most delicate tartares I’ve had in Sicily. Local seasonal fish, expertly hand-cut and served with caramelised red onions and a silky tomato emulsion that somehow made every bite better than the last. It was clean, bright, and deeply flavorful.

For the main, I had the spaghetti V.G.P.—a love letter to Sicilian seafood. Veraci clams and local pink shrimp, gently kissed with white wine and just a touch of datterino tomatoes, then finished with pistachio granella for texture and that signature island twist. A dish that’s rich without being heavy, and elegant without trying too hard.

The atmosphere is relaxed and intimate, with just enough buzz to keep it lively. Tables are close. Service was kind and helpful—especially if you ask about the daily specials or local wine pairings. The team clearly knows what they’re doing and cares deeply about showcasing the island’s best ingredients.

Will definitely return without a doubt. This place captures the heart of Sicilian cuisine without overcomplicating it. It’s honest, soulful cooking that makes you want to come back...

Have just had a lovely time at this restaurant after a fabulous afternoon in Syracusa and Ortigia. After wandering the streets sightseeing, my fiancee and I happened upon this restaurant. We hadn't booked and were lucky enough to secure a table for 2. Lucky indeed because whilst we were there, several prospective diners were turned away because there were no spaces. We chose ceviche to start - plump fresh octopus pieces in crisp salad and fresh olive oil drizzled bread was the perfect antipasti. I followed this with spaghetti with calamari and sweet plump prawns and a subtle fresh tomato sauce - perfecto. Kath has spaghetti a la norma with aubergine and complimented by a dry white wine from Palermo. All in all one of the most delicious and beautifully presented meals we have had. The service was fantastic too, and all reasonably priced. Can't recommend the restaurant highly enough but don't wing it like us, book in advance to avoid...

They have a crazy "system" whereby the table indoors are mostly booked out by reservation (which is fine), but there are a few tables outdoor that are up for grabs, except it's not in any orderly way, and the owners/staff do not care about people queuing up. Hence, people that queue up before the restaurant opens, get to the front of the queue, only to be told that only the tables outside are up for grabs, but then other people who knew about this "system" (and shamelessly do not care about order/queue) already took the seats. When asked about this, the staff just said that they only take reservations for indoor seating, and don't pay attention to what happens outside as the restaurant opens for business. I wouldn't want to go back there, but if you plan to, just sit right down and argue that you got the seats. Maybe be prepared for some feisty...