We were incredibly lucky to have Teatro Massimo di Palermo literally on our doorstep. The architecture is stunning and absolutely photo-worthy. It’s also famous from The Godfather Part III, where the assassination of Apollonia was filmed. We loved passing by day and night, always catching a new angle. Overall, it’s a must-see and an easy stop while exploring Palermo. Saluti

The Teatro Massimo is absolutely stunning — both inside and out. The architecture is breathtaking, from the grand marble staircase to the ornate auditorium. Attending a performance here is an unforgettable experience, and even just the guided tour gives a real sense of Palermo’s cultural richness. The acoustics are excellent, and the staff are friendly and informative. A must-visit for anyone interested in opera

We headed out early from Syracuse to do this hike. 1.2 km down the ravine to this little oasis. Getting there was an easy drive until we got a km away. Then you are on a very rocky, narrow road- praying that no one is coming the other way. Several larger vehicles parked at the start of the narrow road - i assume the passengers walked in. There are clean washrooms available for use at the top of the hill. We were given an estimate of 40 minutes down and an hour back. I’m not in the best of shape so was worried about the trip back up. Although I had already been doing a lot of steps and stairs for the past 13 days. We made it both ways in less than the estimated time told to us. The route was a mix of rock steps, loose rock and a few flatter spots- just to keep you going. lol It’s nice to be able to sit and have some lunch dangling your feet in the cool water. The temperature heated up as we descended. We were glad that the temp outside was around 24. I think if it was warmer it would slow the hike back up the hill as there isn’t a lot of shade to rest in. A beautiful hike and we certainly recommend it.

Magnificent! The atmosphere is really about the classic theatre inside of the performance part and architecture. Surrounding floors and buffet I would say need a deep renovation. It doesn't match the overall expectations. Performance, the orchestra are magnificent 😄

As fans of The Godfather trilogy, visiting the Teatro Massimo Vittorio Emanuele was the first thing on our Palermo itinerary—it's iconic! The theater is famous worldwide as the dramatic setting for the final, tragic scene of The Godfather Part III, making it an essential pilgrimage site for film lovers. Even though we couldn't secure tickets for the interior tour this time, the building's exterior is magnificent and absolutely worth the visit. It stands as the largest opera house in Italy and the third largest in Europe, a massive, imposing structure that dominates Piazza Giuseppe Verdi. Its Neoclassical design, with a majestic hexastyle Corinthian portico and the impressive bronze lions flanking the entrance steps, speaks to the incredible wealth and culture of Palermo at the turn of the 20th century. Taking a moment to simply stand on the steps and admire the architecture, imagining the grand events that have unfolded there (both real and cinematic), is a pleasure in itself. Whether you are here for the opera, the history, or for the indelible connection to the Corleone family's final moments, the Teatro Massimo is a truly beautiful and essential stop in Palermo.

Astonishing place. Truly beautiful inside and out. Terrific accoustics. Great atmosphere. Friendly and helpful staff. Compared to rivals, extremely reasonable ticket prices. If possible don't take a tour, see a performance. Would you pay to see nice food in a restaurant? It comes alive with music.

The exterior is definitely worth to come and see, specially if you are a fan of the godfather movies. The interior is equally impressive. The guided tour is not expensive and even if it is short, it is worth it. I would recommend as second to the palazzo for the must visit in Palermo.

The Pretoria Fountain is a masterpiece of Renaissance art that has been both lauded and reviled since its inception. This beautiful fountain, often dubbed the "Fountain of Shame" by locals due to its numerous nude sculptures, exemplifies the city's rich heritage and creative flare. Originally designed for a Florentine nobleman's private gardens, the fountain underwent considerable changes after being acquired by the Palermo Senate in 1574. Its transfer to the center of the city, Piazza Pretoria, sparked both appreciation and criticism. The abundance of naked images portraying gods, goddesses, nymphs, and legendary animals sparked concern among Palermo's more conservative people. The fountain's elaborate form, which consists of three concentric circular basins, is a masterwork of late Renaissance sculpture with clear Florentine influences. The highest basin is the smallest, and the lowermost is the largest. The ensemble is decorated with various statues and smaller fountains, resulting in a visually magnificent display. Visitors can freely observe this prominent sight at any time of day or night. However, daylight hours provide the best circumstances for observing the complex features of the sculptures. As evening falls, the fountain is lighted in a most fascinating way, casting a mystical spell over its watchers.

A beautiful square with an impressive fountain at its center. The atmosphere is lively and charming. At the moment, some renovation work is ongoing, but it’s still well worth a visit.

Beautiful fountain in the heart of Palermo! The sculptures are impressive and full of detail, and the square around it feels very lively. A must-see stop when exploring the city’s historic

Lovely piazza, with the stunning Fontana della Vergogna at its center, a masterpiece of marble sculptures featuring gods, nymphs, and animals. The surrounding architecture, including the City Hall and nearby churches, adds to the square’s historic charm. Piazza Pretoria has also appeared in several films and series, including the recent version of Il Gattopardo and Netflix’s Ripley, which makes it feel even more cinematic in person. A beautiful and iconic stop while exploring the city!

Stunning fountain ⛲️. But it was under renovation unfortunately when we got there 😪. Still we got the vipes ✨️🇮🇹

Sadly in renovations right now but you can still get a glimpse of how amazing it must be! Very detailed statues made out of Carrara marble and the fountain is incredibly large too! At its top you can find the protector saint of Palermo, Santa Rosalia. It consists of 644 pieces shipped from Florence to Palermo.

I came across the Fontana Pretoria (Fontana della Vergogna) in front of the Town Hall in the Piazza Pretoria. Just amazing to go around and see the outstanding carvings! It was commissioned in 1554 for a villa in Florence and later transported here to Sicily. It has more than 50 white marble statues of mythological figures. It was nicknamed the "Fountain of Shame" due to all the nude statues!

One of Palermo’s most iconic spots! The four baroque facades are stunning, especially when lit by the sun. A perfect place to stop, take photos, and admire the historic heart of the city.

Where the two main roads cross, the magnificent hits you with full effect. The tourist stop regardless of whether walking alone or definitely when on a guided tour.

Quattro Canti (Four Corners) is not just an intersection; it is one of Palermo's most important and memorable sights, serving as the dramatic, architectural heart of the city. We passed by it many times, and every single time the energy was different—it's a place of constant movement and life. The site is technically Piazza Vigliena, a small octagonal square formed by the intersection of the two main historic streets, Via Maqueda and Corso Vittorio Emanuele. The four corner facades are magnificent examples of Palermitan Baroque, each one carved into a harmonious, curved space. The four buildings are decorated in four tiers: Fountains representing the four seasons. Statues of the four Spanish kings of Sicily. Statues of the four patron saints of the ancient quarters of Palermo (Agata, Ninfa, Oliva, and Cristina). What makes the Quattro Canti so special is that it acts as the city's living stage. Every time we passed through, there was something else happening—from street performances and singing to small public events. It truly feels like the pulse of Palermo, where the life of the city flows in every direction. It's an essential photo stop and a fantastic place to simply pause, look up at the soaring architecture, and soak up the ever-changing, vibrant atmosphere of the Sicilian capital.

Absolutely stunning and iconic. Quattro Canti is one of those places where you simply have to stop, look up, and take in the incredible architecture. The symmetry, the Baroque details, the statues — everything feels like stepping into a piece of living history. It’s vibrant, full of life, and perfectly located in the heart of Palermo. A must-see for anyone visiting the city. Highly recommended!

Absolutely loved Quattro Canti in Palermo! This iconic Baroque square is like an open-air museum, every corner is a masterpiece. Located at the crossroads of the city’s four historic quarters, it’s where art, history, and urban life come together. The four curved facades are beautifully adorned with statues representing the seasons, Spanish kings, and Palermo’s patron saints, it feels like you’re standing inside a grand theatrical set. Whether you visit during the day or in the evening, the atmosphere is magical. A must-see when in Palermo!

A truly amazing place where architecture and music can be found. I loved the statues on the buildings. It is a must when you visit Palermo. There is usually a musician that plays music in the center. There are vendors who sell spritz like limoncello and Aperol. Just be aware that the vendors will charge more for their drinks for tourists. I was charged 10 euros for a limoncello spritz. The other vendors charge 5 or 3. Try not to get one from one of the aesthetic looking vendors. Go to one of the smaller cafes and avoid over paying all together. From this area you can go any direction and you’ll find shops and more restaurants. It’s a lovely area to enjoy the sights and sounds of Palermo. I would love to come back.

A corner unlike 1 I’ve ever seen. The history behind the statutes is fascination. Nice place to take pictures. Also a great meeting place when traveling with others not staying in your hotel. Close to many other sites, restaurants and stores.

Very limited things you can see. Most of the places are not allowed for entry (unless you have a special exhibition ticket). Be aware: The most famous Jesus mosaic is currently under construction! There is a nice little garden you can go and rest.

Its big but beautiful. You can see the combination of the three ruling ethnicities on Sicily in the palace. I advise to buy tickets online, then you have no wait. The queue for the ticket office spans the whole east to west of Sicily

It was worth the price (around 20€ per person). You also have a temporary exhibition (photos gallery) from an artist. You can spend almost two hours inside.

Most of the Chapel and Palace N/A for viewing (either in scaffolds, or just NO WAY for the visitors). Chapel is in need for restoration , no doubt, long due. Online ticket asked to arrive 15 min earlier for security check, however the staff didn't want you earlier . Staff didn't care about the money, that visitors paid, behaved angry and rudely towards strangers (bold man on the photos), but spending time kissing each other and having fun.

The Palatine Chapel blends Byzantine, Norman, and Arab art like no other. The golden mosaics are stunning, and the wooden muqarnas ceiling is breathtaking. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2015, a powerful symbol of Sicily’s multicultural past.

Worth seeing! Same beautiful mosaiscs as in the Monreal cathedral but mixed with baroque art. Fun fact - all the marzipan fruits you see in Palermo - it all began here!

The Cappella Palatina is a breathtaking 12th-century chapel built by King Roger II inside the Norman Palace. Its golden Byzantine mosaics, the famous scene of Roger crowned by Christ, the Arabic wooden ceiling, and Norman architecture create a stunning fusion of cultures. A true masterpiece and an absolute must-see in Palermo.

I visited this magnificent cathedral in May, and it was truly one of the highlights of my trip to Palermo. The moment you approach the building, you’re struck by its grand façade and unique mix of architectural styles — Norman, Gothic, Baroque, and Neoclassical — all beautifully layered through centuries of history. It’s a place where art, faith, and culture come together in a breathtaking way. Inside, the cathedral is just as impressive. The soaring arches, intricate details, and serene atmosphere create a powerful sense of history. It’s fascinating to walk through and imagine all the generations that have passed here. The royal tombs are especially interesting, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich past. Don’t miss going up to the rooftop — the panoramic view over Palermo and the surrounding mountains is unforgettable. The combination of history, architecture, and scenery makes this place truly special. ✨ I was genuinely happy to visit this incredible site. It’s not just a monument, but a living piece of Palermo’s soul. Absolutely worth a visit!

Set in a beautiful square alongside its museum. The cathedral had a very modern feel. We did get in without waiting in line however, the building was very busy with tour groups. I would recommend heading to crypt which really is fascinating. For those who wish you can also access the upstairs via a dtstcase hidden behind a panel in the main building. For individual travellers tickets can be bought from their ticket office @ 18 Euros. The office also has toilets available at 1 Euro per person.

We came out of a narrow street to the north east and were greeted by this massive building and nice open space. The stonework is so well preserved for 900 years old and the inside is kept spotless clean. We didn't have time to tour the museum and rooftop walk but I believe 18euro allows access to both. There is a bronze line on the floor with pictures of several constellations that shows the passing of the sun through the window on certain days. Very interesting to find that in a church. There are a few large statues outside in the spacious piazza that are also worth a close look if you have time

Visited the Palermo Cathedral while in town and wow — it’s absolutely beautiful. The architecture and deep history are truly stunning, and its UNESCO status feels well-deserved. We wandered for a while and found plenty of great photo spots. Entry is paid, but worth it. Definitely a must-see when in Palermo. Saluti!

The Palermo Cathedral is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful and architecturally complex buildings in all of Italy. It was the most important and beloved sight of our visit to Palermo, and it’s a place where you can easily spend an entire day exploring its incredible history and diverse grandeur. What makes this Cathedral so mesmerizing is its astonishing Arab-Norman architecture, a result of centuries of conquest and cultural fusion. Unlike a typical Italian Duomo, it features elements of Byzantine, Islamic, Gothic, and Renaissance design, visible in its massive scale, its delicate stonework, and the imposing battlements that crown the structure. From the exterior arches decorated with Arabic inscriptions to the imposing bell tower, the building tells the entire history of Sicily in stone. You can certainly spend hours simply admiring the exterior, but the interior offers equal wonder. Inside, be sure to explore the various facets of the complex: The Crypt: A quiet, ancient space holding the tombs of archbishops. The Royal Tombs: Containing the sarcophagi of Norman kings and Holy Roman Emperors, including Roger II and Frederick II. The Roofs: If possible, take the climb up to the roof for an unparalleled panoramic view of the entire city of Palermo, which truly puts the scale of the building into perspective. The Cathedral is a profoundly beautiful and essential stop that defines the grandeur and complexity of the city's identity.

The beautiful Palermo Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage site dating back to the 12th century. The cathedral has undergone many transformations over time which has contributed to its unique blend of architectural styles (Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, Neoclassical). The cathedral houses the relics of Santa Rosalia, the Patron Saint of Palermo, as well as the tombs of six kings and queens. The cathedral also houses the tomb of Father Pino Pugliese, a local priest from Brancaccio who challenged the mafia and was subsequently killed by them in 1993. He was beatified by the church in 2013.

Palermo Cathedral is absolutely stunning! Just looking at the pictures and the details inside, you can really feel the faith and history. It’s one of those places that makes you stop and just take it all in.

Wonderful old and historic theater in central Palermo. Not really comfortable seating, but good sight lines and acoustics. Reasonable prices.

The place was full of tourists i liked it , beautiful full of shops and coffeeshops, basically its a big place and its near to many things

Visited Teatro Politeama Garibaldi while in Palermo, and it was a delightful find. The neoclassical architecture from the late 1800s is stunning, and we loved wandering around and taking in all the details. Knowing it’s home to the Orchestra Sinfonica Siciliana adds even more cultural weight to the experience. Overall, a rewarding and worthwhile stop while exploring the city. Saluti!

The Teatro Politeama Garibaldi is one of Palermo's most striking and recognizable landmarks, and even if you don't attend a performance, the building itself is an absolute must-see. The building is a gorgeous example of 19th-century Neoclassical architecture, instantly recognizable by its triumphal arch entrance and the magnificent bronze sculpture atop it—a chariot pulled by four horses (the Quadriga). It stands proudly on Piazza Ruggero Settimo, dominating the space and marking a vibrant central point in the city. The elegant, curved facade gives it a sense of grandeur and poise. The Politeama truly comes alive after sunset. As you mentioned, they lighten it up in different, changing colors when it gets dark, which adds a beautiful, modern, and dramatic flair to the historic stone. The colorful illumination transforms the entire piazza into a lively, photogenic spot perfect for an evening stroll or an aperitivo nearby. It's an ideal place to pause, take pictures of its grand architecture, and soak up the chic atmosphere of modern Palermo.

Attended a performance a few days ago. It hurts to see such a glorious building in disrepair. I hope they renovate the structure since it is worth saving. A word of advise, finding one's seat is not so easy up in the galleries. Perhaps have a staff member help people up there. It seems many were confused regardless being locals or visitors. As for the performance, it was wonderful! Thank you 😊

My mother and I had a really great experience with the guided tour today! The young man and woman who lead our tour (university students) were very kind, professional, friendly and knowledgeable. I wish them the best of luck with their work and university studies :)

Beautiful historical building. The tour was awesome, it was only 3 euros. This building has a more experience guide than the one from Massimo honestly. She was very informed, told us a lot of details. We found a lot of interesting details and we entered in all the rooms. It has also a richer history than Massimo. The place could use some renovation and restoration but the guide told us all the money go into the biggest theater. It is a pity as this one has way more history and it is far more interesting than that one. Beautiful place, totally recommend visiting it, spectacular view from the terrace, panoramic view of the city.

Very nice church built into a cave. This is the patron saint of Palermo. She was a Hermit and lived her life out in this cave. Bus 812 goes up from Palermo: check Google maps. There’s a different schedule on holidays and weekends. It’s a very nice ride, there’s the sanctuary a few cafes and shops up there. We were pickpocketed here. Beware not everyone is a saint… enjoy!

This proved to be a surprising visit, as I don't think I expected much, but was amazed by how this is built into the rocks and caves. A truly impressive location, and unique experience. If you are nearby, I would definitely recommend visiting. There is also a small cafe at the bottom of the steps which is a good place to get some refreshments.

Visiting the Santuario and the Church of Santa Rosalia in Palermo is a truly memorable experience. The views from the sanctuary are absolutely stunning, offering a panoramic glimpse of the city and the surrounding landscape that's well worth the trip. If you're not up for a long walk, there's a bus that runs roughly every two hours, which is really convenient for those who want an easier way to get there and back. Just plan your timing accordingly to make the most of your visit. Overall, it's a peaceful and beautiful spot that combines history, nature, and breathtaking views.

It is a beautiful place to discover the vibrant Sicilian culture. The region offers a unique blend of history and traditions that are worth exploring. The religious aspect is an integral part of the Sicilian heritage and is reflected in numerous ways. There are many churches and religious sites that are truly remarkable and awe-inspiring to see. Overall, it is a fascinating location with a rich and diverse culture that welcomes visitors.

So beautiful of a church. The area around is so gorgeous. The views are insane from hiking. To see the church was free, the museum was 2 or 3 euro I think, which was cool to see all the relics, and the toilet was 50 cents.

Travelled to the top of Mount Pellegrino to visit the area. The church is nestled in the mountain. Beautiful to see inside. Easy to get to from palermo on the bus cost 2euro each way. Lovely little restaurant.

Make sure you plan your trip in advance. There is a bus every two hours more a less. A taxi from Palermo city centre can cost you around 50 Euros.

The aperol spritz’s were great, and pasta was delicious and well priced - especially the pasta with tuna ragout which was the dish of the day. The servers were all friendly. We went for dinner relatively earlier so it was a bit quieter than other restaurants on the street.

Staff is very friendly, helpful and speak good English. Food is overall really delicious. We especially recommend Panelle, Caponata di Melanzane and and pasta dish. Millefogue unfortunately wasn’t very good. We paid for 3 people 61eur.

The food was well-balanced and delicious. I was satisfied with the flavor of the house wine.

Very nice, quiet bistro on the otherwise very crowded Via Maqueda, much appreciated by locals. Delicious espresso, very nice service. When I'm in Palermo again, I'll definitely be back!

Had an amazing dining experience at Bisso Bistrot! The vibe is awesome, with a cozy yet modern feel. It's in a perfect location too. The food, though, is the real star of the show. Every dish I tried was bursting with flavor, but I have to highlight the basmati rice with fried chicken. It was perfectly cooked and seasoned, making it the ideal accompaniment to the rest of the amazing menu. The quality of the food is well worth the price (it is very affordable too). Highly recommend!

Lovely place with good Sicilian food. The service is really good and fast. The menu offers a great variety of food so if you are a vegetarian or a meat eater you will find what you want. Quantities are good and meals tasty. If you're nearby give it a try

Cute restaurant and very affordable prices. However, I had high hopes for this restaurant, but was a bit disappointed.. The service was ok, but way too fast. I ordered and not even 2 minutes after I got my food. Which made me wonder if the wanted me out of the restaurant super fast? You finish the starter and not even 2 minutes after you have your plate. It might be to get more tables during the night, but it makes the overall experience less enjoyable. Feels like were in the US, not Italy. The food was good, but the pasta was definitely too salty for me. Haven’t tried the desserts, but they looked good!

We have eaten at this restaurant for 4 meals on this trip and each time it has been delicious. The service is excellent, and the staff are really friendly. The pizzas and Pasta Carbinara are wonderful. My grandson loved the sauted mushrooms. Cappuccinos are perfect. Clean bathrooms, too!!

Absolute Nightmare - Avoid at All Costs This was hands down the worst restaurant experience of my life. First of all, they charge a €2 service fee — for what, exactly? We waited forever to be served while the staff ran around yelling, screaming, and completely ignoring customers. It was like stepping into a madhouse. The noise was unbearable, the service was non-existent, and to top it all off, they overcharged us and kept the change without asking. It felt more like being robbed than served. If you’re into chaos, rudeness, and paying extra for absolutely nothing, this is the place for you. Otherwise, do yourself a favor and stay far away from this disaster of a restaurant.

Waiters are super quick and attentive🤩🤩🤩 Pasta and pizza are amazing❤️ We didn’t like the desserts - maybe just not for our taste

I dont know how to describe this experience, i didnt eat… my pizza never arrived but all my family ate. Broken chairs, broken glass, 2€ to sit there… much noise and fight and overall bad attention. Im pretty angry to leave a proper review, but on my complain the owner gave me the pizza i ordered 1h after for free. I think the owner is killing this place, from all restaurants I’ve been around europe is the first time i end up angry and annoyed.

Great food and great service! I opted for the pizza romana and sicilian cannolo, both were amazing! Pizza tasted fresh, as well as the cannolo, our waitress was very welcoming and friendly too! Overall, would definitely recommend if looking for a place to eat!

Would never go near this restaurant again!! Have been in Italy for 5 weeks (and Sicily for one) and this was the worst restaurant experience we've had. The pasta sauce was almost non existent - no flavour, watery and absolutely disappointing. The house red wine tasted like vinegar and we had a piece of someone else's half eaten bread in our bread basket!! My partner says his Margherita pizza was ok but this doesn't make up for the overall poor dining experience. One of the waitresses was also rude and argumentative when we pointed out the half eaten piece of bread. Avoid at all costs!! So many other wonderful places to enjoy!

I put one star cos I could not put less. Food was was ok but service non existant. Waitress was rude to everybody, no smile no welcome. It’s my second week in Sicily and this is the first time I see this kind of service. So far all restaurants I went to were professional friendly smiling and welcoming! Not like this place, so zero star for me!!

Lovely atmosphere, wonderfully kind staff, and absolutely delicious food! This became our favourite restaurant in Palermo. We enjoyed it so much that we went back a second time during our five-day stay. I highly recommend booking a table in advance, as it’s usually quite busy, especially at dinner.

Best food I had in Palermo and among the best in Sicily. The wait was a little long despite reservations but that’s because the place is so good. They do have a lot of seating if outdoor space is open, and ambience is excellent. Inside was really cool and rustic and outside in an amazing part of town with a lot of old world charm. All the locals said this was the best food in the city, and they were correct! Our waiter Farad was amazing and worked really hard, was awesome with recommendations and very friendly. This restaurant is definite go to!!!

Very well located and with delicious food. They have a terrace with some tables having a view of the cathedral. We had lunch inside and it was also very nice. The place has many kinds of wines, red and white, from Sicily. The pasta was delicious l. I would recommend as a very good option for your lunch while visiting the center of Palermo

A great spot, even if it’s a bit touristy - excellent location, with a charming stone courtyard in traditional Sicilian style and cool air-conditioned seating inside. The staff speaks English, and the food was excellent, especially the seafood pasta. We were very happy with our visit! I’d recommend coming right at opening time or booking in advance to get a table.

Arrived from NYC and this place was recommended by one of tour guides. A reservation is highly recommended. They have an extensive local wine list. The food was absolutely amazing. We had the ravioli , pasta with sausage, and the pork with potatoes. The desert was excellent. It was the best food we had in Palermo.

Really nice restaurant, with a great atmosphere. If I hadn’t found it on google maps, we would never have walked past it. Great menu with good options. Food quality was 10/10, the seafood was incredible. Staff were great. Dessert wasn’t anything special.

The restaurant has all the typical Italian dishes with the right flavour. The atmosphere is subtle romantic and private with the Italian flair. I came alone and got a cat company.

Everything about our evening at MEC was simply perfect — from the refined ambience and impeccable service to the creative and flawlessly executed tasting menu. The restaurant’s location inside an elegant Sicilian palazzo adds a sense of timeless grandeur, yet the space simultaneously celebrates modernity through its exhibition of Apple’s design history. This unexpected blend of past and future creates a unique and captivating atmosphere. Each dish was a masterpiece, beautifully presented and rich in flavor — thoughtful, balanced, and deeply evocative of both tradition and innovation. The staff were knowledgeable, attentive, and genuinely welcoming, making the whole experience feel personal and memorable. Dining here feels like being part of a story — of art, technology, and gastronomy seamlessly intertwined. Absolutely worth a visit for anyone who appreciates fine dining at its most inspired.

The experience at this restaurant was, overall, underwhelming — especially given the high expectations and premium price point. The concept is introduced as a tribute to Steve Jobs, briefly mentioned upon arrival. However, the idea isn’t explored or referenced again throughout the evening. This left us puzzled, as the theme didn’t reflect in the atmosphere, service, or storytelling in any meaningful way. The wine list is extensive — in fact, a bit overwhelming. We were presented with a very thick catalogue, and when we asked for assistance, the guidance felt limited. We found ourselves having to lead the conversation and ask very specific questions to find a wine that suited our preferences. At this level, we expected more proactive and personalized recommendations. We opted for the tasting menu, which seemed promising. While the presentation of the dishes was striking, the flavors often didn’t live up to the visual appeal. Some courses lacked depth, and overall, the selection didn’t quite align with our palate. On a positive note, the service was courteous and attentive throughout the evening. It wasn’t a bad experience, but it fell short of the standard we anticipated — especially for a restaurant with such a strong concept and pricing to match.

Dining at MEC in Palermo was an unforgettable experience — not just a meal, but a journey through creativity, precision, and emotion. From the moment I entered, I could feel the calm elegance that defines Michelin-star dining: minimalist design, soft lighting, and impeccable attention to detail. The staff welcomed me with warmth and professionalism, making me feel truly taken care of throughout the evening. I chose the tasting menu, and each course was a small work of art — visually stunning and bursting with flavor. The combination of local Sicilian ingredients and modern techniques was impressive. One of my favorites was the red prawn dish — delicate, sweet, and beautifully balanced. The wine pairing was exceptional, highlighting the best of Sicilian vineyards. Every bite felt intentional, every flavor told a story. Even the pacing of the meal was perfect, allowing time to savor and reflect. The dessert was a masterpiece — light, elegant, and full of contrast. MEC is more than a restaurant; it’s an experience that celebrates Sicily in its most refined form. If you appreciate culinary art, this place is absolutely worth it. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

It was one of the worst experience in a Mechlin star restaurant. Cold atmosphere, it seems stuff doesn’t care about clients. They don’t make your serviette. The toilet is terrible. The cheese plate was bad because they don’t keep most of the cheese right and it tastes like old from the fridge. I really don’t understand why they have a star. Oh, and by the way, don’t order Bellini cocktail, they don’t know how to make it.

Maybe Apple is backing this restaurant? There’s Steve Jobs/Apple memorabilia everywhere & Im not sure why. Food wise, they excel at seafood—the 1st bites were all seafood & all tasty. There was a pumpkin dish w mustard ice cream that did not work. Lamb needed flavor, seasoning. Potage was great, risotto was great. Our server had really squeaky shoes. The som was super nice. Wouldn’t go back.

We had a pleasant evening at MEC Palermo, where the service was undoubtedly the highlight. Special thanks to Gaspare, whose warm and attentive approach made us feel truly welcomed and well looked after throughout the night. While the tasting menu didn’t fully meet our expectations in terms of flavor, the professionalism and hospitality of the staff left a lasting impression. For those who appreciate exceptional service in a refined setting, MEC is certainly worth a visit.

Swish restaurant near Palermo cathedral. The restaurant doubles up as a museum dedicated to Apple / Steve Jobs. Here the food and service was excellent. Definitely go! Best restaurant in Palermo