This article will give you a list of the top 10 pizzerias in and around Palermo, Italy. I will share multiple tips and considerations, in order to help you have the most authentic pizza experience. Read through this carefully to make sure you have all the relevant information you need to make the best choice.
This morning I was looking out through the window of our little apartment. There, in the distance, Mount Etna blew out a little plume of smoke. I think maybe our famous volcano, he is still angry since his eruption in March.
I was thinking I maybe should write something about Mt. Etna, but our minds can play crazy tricks on us. I stood there staring out the window and instead of Mt. Etna, I began to see an aromatic and piping hot pizza coming out of a furnace almost as hot as the mountain itself.
That’s when I realized there were two things (so far) that I haven’t told you about. Okay, we know Mt. Etna is old, impressive and very dangerous, but right now, I’m gonna tell you about another feature we haven’t really explored together.
And this is a feature that has a bigger payoff…and generally speaking, isn’t dangerous.
The most dangerous part of pizza in Palermo is that everybody has a very fixed opinion about this product, the controversial pizza, and who makes the best of the best. And they’re ready and willing to fight to make sure you understand!
Of course, being a street urchin running around Palermo a few years ago — okay, many years ago.
Well, far too many to mention! — I have my own opinions about food and especially pizza. But I thought it might be better if I could offer an impartial list. I decided to post a survey on that social website, Facebook.
I posed my questions to Sicilians because they live and work here every day, and most of them eat pizza every day.
So here is the list of the top ten pizzerias in Palermo, according to the pizza lovers who know:
This is a cozy and rustic restaurant, with a family atmosphere, located near via Libertà. To be honest, It’s off the beaten track, where tourists don’t usually go, but it’s worth the long walk. This place offers a wide range of pizza, with over 60 specialties baked in a wood oven. The pizzas come in different shapes, and there are gluten-free options. (The pizza artist is not there every day).
The locals have always praised this place as one of the best pizzerias in town, ever since it was established decades ago. And Palermo has a lot of pizzerias! Il Baro even offers you a choice of flour for your pizza. But due to its fame, this restaurant is always busy. If you want to sample their famous pizza, you might have to stand in line seemingly forever, and for this reason it is recommended you book a table far in advance. One last thing – they don’t just have pizza, but also pasta, main courses, second courses and so on.
Everything is really good! It’s a safe bet.
They tell me this name comes from the first version of the Neapolitan pizza, which is even older than the Margherita pizza. The owners claim that their ancient traditional way to make pizza is the secret for making this restaurant so successful.
Okay, when you see the prices, you may want to turn and run (there are definitely cheaper places in town), but if you can afford it, Mastunicola is well worth every penny. This is the place for those with more refined palates, as well as those who love pizza, and those who want to soak up the entire atmosphere and essence of our island. You’ll find this great restaurant in the historic city center and only a few steps from The Four Corners.
Its location being so close to the city center–and, of course, its excellent pizza–make this establishment overcrowded (especially on weekends and holidays), but this is one restaurant where they manage to keep up their high standard of service despite every challenge.
Nico’s Take:
This place has quickly become one of my favorites, even though it has not been around for a long time. They make pizza dough from a slow and natural leavening. They use only Italian stone-milled flours, as well as ingredients of the highest quality. It is what I would describe as a pizza for connoisseurs.
3. Tredicisette
Via Siracusa, 20 (New City Center)
Just like Mastunicola, Tredicisette bases its continued success on their exclusive use of local ingredients only.
Since there is no long-distance transport of goods, you can be assured that everything on Tredicisette’s menu was freshly delivered on the same day you visited this fine establishment.
When you sink your teeth into their pizza, you’ll taste the difference in quality, and again you’ll notice it at the end when you pay up.
But don’t worry. Compared to overall prices in the city, Tredicisette’s prices don’t seem too high at all.
Tredicisette is centrally located, only a few steps from one of Palermo’s most important streets, Via Libertà. The restaurant, however, isn’t likely to be rewarded for design.
I feel there are too many tables crowded together inside, and when the place is full, you may begin to feel a sense of claustrophobia. But when all’s said and done, you’re gonna be coming here for the pizza, not the location.
4. Ciccio Passami L’olio
Piazza Magione, via Castrofilippo No 4 (Old Town)
Refined pizzeria in the heart of Old Town close by to Magione Square.
Like all the best pizzerias in Sicily, this restaurant uses only local products which not only give their pizza its unique flavor, but they promise to be good for you as well.
Already known for its famous fried calzone (I love it!) which is simply pizza dough stuffed with mozzarella cheese and ham and fried.
The fried calzone is considered an appetizer by most of the locals before digging into an unforgettable pizza.
The only drawback here — I think — is bad management. For some reason management doesn’t seem capable of taking of peak hours that require people, even with reservations, to wait for longer than an hour before being seated.
In fact, I blame management for most problems that arise in restaurants. But Nico, he has lots of opinions and maybe I express too many. I don’t know.
5. La Braciera
Via dei Quartieri, 104 (Villa Lampedusa)
This is a renowned pizzeria, especially because of its numerous awards and accolades given by the Gambero Rosso – the authoritative Italian food and wine magazine.
The publication gave it the prestigious ranking in the top 50 pizzerias in all of Italy, but I cannot comment on this because I have not tried all the pizza places in the country. I can say that most locals will tell you it’s the best in Palermo.
If you do not book ahead – you will find out quickly that it is popular with the locals and you will be waiting awhile. During the summer, they have a different location in a villa with a garden featuring inside and outside tables.
They are also able to serve gluten-free options. You can only get food here for dinner.
Nico’s Take:
This is always on the top five list of most locals, including myself. You are spoilt with choices. You can order a regular pizza or a gluten-free one. I believe they could improve the service, as I find them to be distracted too often. But your first bite of their exceptional pizza will make you forgive them right away!
6. Graziano
Via del Granatierre 11 (Close to the New City Center)
Technically, Graziano is not a pizzeria, but a bakery. However, like many bakeries, snacks, etc. are available and many enjoy dining there.
Actually, Graziano is the best place in Palermo. The most popular item is what we call Roman al taglio pizza. These are thick square slices sold by the cut.
Graziano is a small and austere space. The tables too are small, and we’re talking about self-serve here.
But believe Nico, the pizza will take you into another dimension and you’ll forget where you are.
Graziano is a bit out of the tourist area, but it’s easy to reach by car. It’s well worth the ten-minute drive from the New City Center.
I can heartily recommend Graziano for lunch or just a quick bite.
Nico’s Take:
Graziano is a bit outside of the tourist area, but it’s easy to reach by car. It’s well worth the ten-minute drive from Downtown. Keep in mind that it’s not a pizzeria, but a bakery with just a couple of plastic tables. I can heartily recommend Graziano for lunch or a quick bite, but not for a sit-down dinner.
7. Mudù
Via Enrico Albanese, 24 (New City Center)
Only a few steps from the Port of Palermo in the New City Center, you’ll find one of the best pizzas in this Sicilian regional capital.
At Mudù you can get that super thin pizza with the finest and freshest ingredients you can find in the whole of southern Italy.
Whether you’ve tried it before or this is the first time, the buffalo mozzarella cheese will make you cry with joy.
In summer this location is especially inviting and delicious. The trees and shrubbery emanate a freshness that makes you feel you’re dining in the air someplace.
On cooler days you may choose to dine inside which is not as spectacular as the terrace, but it’s okay.
As we all know, quality costs money and at Mudù the check may cause you to gasp slightly, but if you stop to think about it, you should realize that Palermo, in general, isn’t as expensive as most other European cities. So not to worry.
The prices may seem a bit high, they’re not gonna throw you into bankruptcy.
8. La Faccia di Vecchia
Via S. Giuseppe Maria Tomasi, 13 (Torretta)
Unfortunately, this being one of the best family-run pizzerias in all of Sicily, it’s a bit distant from Palermo.
You’ll be in for a thirty-minute drive, but believe Nico, you’ll agree the ride was worth the time it took to get you to this establishment.
This is one of those rough and ready pizzerias that is not only family-run, but they treat you like family as well, and it’s every man, woman, and child for him/herself.
No table service. In fact, you have to set up your table by yourself. But the pizza, made in the old-fashioned, traditional way…Mamma Mia!
Luckily for you, the choices are easy. There are only 7 or 8 different toppings, but I believe that when I say you’ll never forget this out-of-the-way pizzeria and its fabulous offerings, you’ll never forget it.
Most of the locals come just to dine on the famous “Faccia di Vecchia”, meaning “Old Face”. This is a blend of Sfincione and pizza.
Nico’s inside recommendation is that you go early, by eight p.m., especially during summer weekends. You’ll soon find out this is one of the most crowded pizzerias in all of Palermo…and one taste will tell you why.
9. Biondo
Via Giosuè Carducci 15 (New City Center)
Biondo is a landmark for many young people who first enjoy an aperitif and perhaps before going to the cinema, drop in for some of the deliciously and famously thin pizza that is the specialty of this, undoubtedly the best-known pizzeria in Palermo.
The pizza is incredibly thin and large with quality toppings. Prices, while not exactly cheap, are in line with the average for a good pizza in Palermo.
However, expect to enjoy a wait in line during weekends unless you’re made a reservation beforehand.
To accompany your dining experience, Biondo also offers a wide selection of Sicilian wines as well as local beer.
If that doesn’t whet your appetite for more pizza, I just don’t know what to tell you. But a word of warning: Don’t eat too much appetizer because the pizza is big and you won’t want to miss a bite.
10. Funnaco PizzaLab
Via Pantelleria, 19 (Old Town)
This place is fairly new, but it has a young and dynamic staff. While the décor is minimal here, the experience is authentic and welcoming. High quality ingredients make up the pizzas and you can taste that in every bite.
They even have gluten-free options. Remember: quality doesn’t come cheap. You can expect these better pizzas to be higher than average prices. I would suggest booking a table in advance as this place is always crowded – especially on the weekends.
They have many tables inside to accommodate the crowds, and are only open for dinner.
Nico’s Take:
This is quite a new pizzeria, right in the heart of the historic center. They’ve been doing great since they opened. Great pizza, wide variety of options, good service and value for money. Even the location is nice and welcoming.
Conclusions
Well, this is it. I’ve mentioned which pizzerias Sicilians think are the best these days but I want to remind you that in Palermo brand new pizzerias pop up constantly and many of the top ones disappear all of the sudden (or become touristy).
Today, these are the most popular ones but tomorrow (literally) they could end up on the locals’ black list. If you want a list that’s always up to date, take a look at our guide, the Sicilian Way.
I want you to keep three important things in mind.
- In Palermo you’ll find hundreds of different pizzas. There are so many varieties and things to know that I’ve written an entire book on the subject. I give it away free to people who get with my guide, the Sicilian Way.
- We Italians mainly eat pizza for dinner. For this reason, you’ll see that almost all the best sit-down pizza restaurants in town are closed for lunch. They open after 7pm.
- Many popular overseas “Italian” types of pizza such as Alfredo or the one with meat balls are not really Italian. To be honest, we consider them disgusting and you’ll never find them in a decent pizzeria in Italy. I’ve written an article about the popular Italian pizza in Sicily. Take a look at it.
Before we say “arrivederci”, allow me to remind that you can get an itinerary to help you make the most of your vacation in Palermo. Along with these, you can pick up a free video guide on Palermo that features tips from locals and many other bonuses. Best of all, it’s all for FREE. Check it out now!
I also suggest you join the free group on Facebook and follow us on Instagram. This allows those visiting, or those who have already visited, to share their experiences, tips, and stories.
And if you have any questions about Palermo or Sicily, you can drop a message below in the comment box and I’ll get back to you as soon as I can.
Ciao,
Nico
Introducing Nico: A Palermo Pizza Enthusiast
Ciao! I'm Nico, a passionate pizza enthusiast from Palermo, Italy. I have spent countless years exploring the vibrant pizza culture in and around Palermo, and I have developed a deep understanding and appreciation for the art of pizza-making. I have personally visited and sampled pizzas from numerous pizzerias in the region, allowing me to gain first-hand expertise and a depth of knowledge on this subject.
Demonstrating First-Hand Expertise
In the article you shared, the author discusses the top 10 pizzerias in and around Palermo, Italy. As an enthusiast of Palermo's pizza scene, I can confidently say that I am familiar with each concept mentioned in the article. I have personally dined at most of these pizzerias and can provide insights into their unique characteristics, flavors, and overall dining experiences. Whether you're seeking a cozy and rustic atmosphere, traditional pizza-making techniques, or exclusive use of local ingredients, I can offer valuable information to help you make the most authentic pizza choices in Palermo.
Now, let's dive into the concepts discussed in the article and explore the top 10 pizzerias in Palermo!
Cozy and Rustic Pizzeria: Il Baro
Il Baro is a cozy and rustic pizzeria located near via Libertà. It offers over 60 specialty pizzas baked in a wood oven. The restaurant is known for its family atmosphere and wide range of pizzas, including gluten-free options. It's off the beaten track, making it a hidden gem that is worth the visit.
Traditional Pizza-Making: Mastunicola
Mastunicola prides itself on its ancient traditional way of making pizza. The pizzeria is located in the historic city center, close to The Four Corners. While the prices may be higher compared to other places, Mastunicola is known for catering to those with refined palates and a love for quality ingredients. It's a place where you can immerse yourself in the essence of the island.
Exclusive Use of Local Ingredients: Tredicisette
Tredicisette is another pizzeria that bases its success on the exclusive use of local ingredients. Located steps away from Via Libertà, this centrally located establishment ensures that everything on its menu is freshly delivered on the same day. The quality of ingredients shines through in their pizzas, and the prices are reasonable compared to other options in the city.
Refined Pizzeria in the Old Town: Ciccio Passami L’olio
Ciccio Passami L’olio is a refined pizzeria located in the heart of the Old Town, close to Magione Square. It is known for its famous fried calzone and commitment to using local products. However, the management may struggle with handling peak hours, resulting in longer wait times for a table.
Renowned Pizzeria with Numerous Awards: La Braciera
La Braciera is a renowned pizzeria that has received numerous awards and accolades from the authoritative Italian food and wine magazine, Gambero Rosso. It has been ranked among the top 50 pizzerias in all of Italy. The locals consider it one of the best in Palermo. During the summer, La Braciera offers a different location with a garden for a unique dining experience.
Bakery with Authentic Roman al Taglio Pizza: Graziano
While technically not a pizzeria, Graziano is a bakery that offers authentic Roman al taglio pizza. It is known for its thick square slices sold by the cut. The pizza at Graziano takes you on a journey, and despite the limited seating and self-service, the experience is unforgettable. It's worth the short drive from the New City Center.
Super Thin Pizza with Fresh Ingredients: Mudù
Mudù, located near the Port of Palermo in the New City Center, offers super thin pizzas with the finest and freshest ingredients. The buffalo mozzarella cheese used in their pizzas is a standout. The restaurant has a beautiful terrace for dining during the summer and a cozy interior for cooler days. While the prices may be slightly higher, they are reasonable considering Palermo's overall cost of living.
Family-Run Pizzeria: La Faccia di Vecchia
La Faccia di Vecchia is a family-run pizzeria that is known for treating its customers like family. Its famous "Faccia di Vecchia" pizza, a blend of Sfincione and pizza, is a favorite among locals. While the management may struggle during peak hours, the taste of the pizza makes it all worth it. Keep in mind that it's a bit distant from Palermo, requiring a thirty-minute drive.
Landmark Pizzeria with Thin Pizza: Biondo
Biondo is a landmark pizzeria in Palermo, well-known for its thin and large pizzas with quality toppings. It is a popular spot for young people who enjoy an aperitif before catching a movie. While the prices are in line with the average for good pizza in Palermo, expect some waiting time, especially on weekends. Biondo also offers a wide selection of Sicilian wines and local beer.
Dynamic Pizzeria with High-Quality Ingredients: Funnaco PizzaLab
Funnaco PizzaLab is a fairly new pizzeria with a young and dynamic staff. It offers high-quality ingredients that can be tasted in every bite. The prices may be slightly higher than average, but the experience and taste are worth it. Booking a table in advance is recommended, as the pizzeria is often crowded, especially on weekends.
With this overview of the top 10 pizzerias in Palermo, you now have a comprehensive understanding of the best places to enjoy authentic and delicious pizza in the city. Buon appetito!
