Wine and dine in Modica - the best restaurants
- Else-Marie Kasmer
- Aug 16
- 3 min read
During our travels around Sicily, we’ve often cooked at home in the apartments we rent. Modica was no exception. One of the things we love most about Sicily is the incredible access to fresh ingredients: vegetables, fruit, fish, and meat. Each region has its specialties, and the offerings change with the seasons. Still, there are some restaurants and bars in Modica that stood out — places we warmly recommend.
Like every Sicilian town, Modica has its own rich culinary traditions, reflected in its local restaurants, bakeries, and wine bars. There’s a deep pride here in showcasing authentic flavors and the quality of local produce. These became our favorites — the very best restaurants, wine bars, and bakeries in Modica.
Osteria dei Sapori Perduti – loved by both locals and visitors
In Modica Bassa, osterias line the streets, and it can be hard to know which ones are truly worth visiting. We fell in love with Osteria dei Sapori Perduti – literally “The Inn of Forgotten Flavors.”
This is a genuine, traditional osteria where locals and tourists sit side by side. The menu features classic dishes from the Modica area — the simple yet flavorful Sicilian cuisine where just a few, high-quality ingredients shine. The menu was even written in Sicilian dialect (with an Italian translation for us outsiders) — charming!
It’s a place full of soul — and one of the city’s most popular restaurants. We recommend booking a table in advance.
Ricotta & Co – handmade pasta and fresh ricotta
Also located in Modica Bassa, Ricotta & Co is extremely popular, so reservations are a must.
The restaurant serves traditional dishes from Modica and the surrounding region. They make their own ricotta and all their pasta by hand using age-old methods. The menu offers many Sicilian classics, small plates, and snacks.
Sitting outside on the pavement, enjoying the food while watching the life of the city go by, was a highlight. Everything here is made with love for craftsmanship and the region.
Radici – l’Osteria di Accursio – a modern osteria with historic charm
This osteria came highly recommended by a sommelier we met in Noto, who had worked here for years and told us bluntly: “You must try it!” He had previously worked at the Michelin-starred sister restaurant (now closed), but the same head chef runs this osteria.
The restaurant is housed in a historic villa, where the elegant rooms have been transformed into intimate dining spaces. Each room has just a few tables, giving it a warm, “at home” feeling.
The menu offers a modern interpretation of classic Italian comfort food — simple, honest flavors executed with exceptional quality. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for a night out in Modica Bassa. Tucked into one of the city’s narrow alleys and surrounded by wine bars and nightlife, it’s a lively spot for dinner.
BANN Pane Libero – a modern bakery with passion and quality
On a casual stroll through Modica Alta, we stumbled upon this hidden gem. BANN Pane Libero is a modern bakery with warm wooden interiors and an urban feel — but above all, it’s a place where baking is done with passion.
It quickly became our go-to stop almost every morning for fresh bread. Many afternoons we also came back for a glass of wine and light lunches. With just a handful of tables inside and outside, they serve pizzas and delicious small bites.
The bakery also offers a curated selection of local wines from small producers, as well as craft beers from independent breweries. A contemporary, understated treasure at the top of Modica.
Rappa Enoteca Autentica – excellent Sicilian wines
Just a few steps from our little piazza in Modica Alta, we discovered Rappa Enoteca, a wine bar that opens in the evening. Here you sit outside in the square on high stools, using wine barrels as tables.
The selection is impressive, especially wines from Ragusa province and other parts of Sicily. You can buy bottles at reasonable prices to take home, or sit down and enjoy a glass with some bruschetta or small bites.
A perfect spot to end the day in Modica.
Bar del Duomo – a local stop right by San Giorgio Cathedral
A little bonus tip for those visiting Modica on a day trip. After climbing the many steps to the majestic Duomo di San Giorgio, we recommend a stop at Bar del Duomo, just to the right of the church.
This is a classic Sicilian bar with simple outdoor seating on the steps. The perfect place for a pit-stop with a cold beer, a coffee, or a fresh cornetto. The smiles are genuine, and the atmosphere is casual and relaxed.
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