Osteria da Rita (dal 1991)

Probably the best Italian restaurant in Taormina. Delicious food, great portions and very reasonable prices. It feels like you’re having your grandma’s recipes. They do not hold reservations so make sure to be there early (7pm) or later (10pm) or you’ll be waiting in line for quite a while. They do not serve lunch ( opens at 5pm)

This place is a hit! The food is so delicious! Must arrive 30-60 min before they open and wait in line, no reservations. We had so many pastas, here are some favorites! Pasta Alla Norma with eggplant Lasagna with meat sauce Pasta da Rita special Ravioli with Spinach and cheese

Our experience at Osteria da Rita was absolutely excellent. The service was incredible, everyone was so kind, welcoming, and genuinely funny, which made the evening even more enjoyable. The food was amazing, full of flavor and perfectly prepared, and the atmosphere couldn’t feel more warm and familiar. It truly feels like dining among friends. A must-visit restaurant in Taormina!

Osteria da Rita is a true gem in the heart of Taormina. From the moment we sat down at the charming red-checkered tables, we knew we were in for something special. Every dish we ordered was bursting with authentic Sicilian flavour, from the crisp and vibrant bruschetta to the rich, soulful lasagna. The pasta dishes were exceptional, especially the bucatini topped with golden breadcrumbs and the house specialty with sardines. The service was warm and genuinely welcoming, and you could feel the pride in every plate brought to the table. Even the ceramic dishes painted with “Osteria da Rita” added a delightful personal touch. It’s no surprise this place has been around since 1991, it’s timeless, heartfelt, and absolutely delicious. A must-visit when in Taormina.

100% worth the wait!! I’m here to make sure everyone understands what the situation is here because I saw a lot of disappointed people last night. The restaurant opens at 6pm and they do not take reservations. The line starts forming around 5:30 which wraps around the street (see pic). I arrived at 5:50 and I sat down at 7:30. This is not a put your name on a list and walk around the shops situation - you have to stay in line. Once the first wave sits and all the tables fill up, then you have to wait for those tables to finish before you get seated. If you want to sit outside or have a larger group, arrive on the earlier side. There are about 20 tables. There is a bar next door that has drinks and you can enjoy those in line (see pic of my 4.50 euro Aperol Spritz). Anyways, the food and service were great and highly recommend - just be prepared for the experience and you will have an amazing dinner!! Lastly, for those planners out there, what I saw as a good strategy is to sit and have a drink at the bar next door around 5 and then you can see when the line starts forming where one person in your group can then hold your place in line.

Absolutely outstanding! This restaurant is a hidden gem. From the moment we walked in, we were greeted with warmth and genuine hospitality. The service was attentive without being intrusive — our server was knowledgeable about the menu and gave excellent recommendations regarding gluten free options. The food… simply exceptional. Every dish was bursting with flavor and clearly made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The pasta was perfectly cooked, the sauces rich and authentic, and the grilled fish plate was the best I’ve ever had.

the best restaurant in Taormina!! we ate here twice during our stay as it was so good! we waited an hour in the queue but it was definitely worth it! if you arrive at 530 you will skip the queue the food was amazing with a homemade feel. the staff were very welcoming and friendly great prices!! we loved it and will miss the place very much, thank you again!