In winter, Syracuse reveals the best of its traditional cuisine, made up of dishes that take advantage of seasonal products and the authentic flavors of Sicily. Between hot soups, local vegetables, fresh fish and typical holiday desserts, eating in Syracuse during this season means immersing yourself in a world of ancient recipes and scents that tell family stories.
For an authentic gastronomic experience, visit our restaurant inside the Hotel Algilà. Here you can enjoy typical Syracuse dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients.
Sicilian culinary traditions in winter
In winter, Sicilian cuisine expresses the best of its traditions through dishes that warm the heart and celebrate seasonal produce.
During the Christmas season, tables are filled with sweets such as buccellato, rich with dried figs, almonds and spices, and baked cassata, less sweet but just as tasty as the decorated version.
Cold days are the perfect opportunity to enjoy dishes such as legume soups, made with chickpeas or lentils, and winter vegetables, such as cauliflower cooked in a stew with olive oil and chili. There is no shortage of scacce, flatbreads filled with seasonal vegetables and cheese, ideal for a warm and hearty lunch. And to finish, a glass of Moscato di Siracusa, perfect for sipping in warm and elegant surroundings, for an experience that combines tradition and authentic flavors.
Typical dishes to enjoy in winter
What to eat in Syracuse in winter? Let yourself be tempted by the specialties that warm the heart and palate, perfect for colder days.
Syracuse-style fried pasta
Syracuse-style fried pasta is a traditional dish that dates back to ancient times. The pasta is pan-fried and seasoned with salted anchovies, garlic, toasted breadcrumbs and oil, resulting in a rich, enveloping flavor. This dish is especially popular during the winter months because of its texture and strong flavor.
Matalotta
Matalotta is a typical Syracuse fish soup prepared with fresh fish, ripe tomatoes, garlic and herbs. This warm and flavorful dish is ideal for cold winter days for a culinary experience that reflects the city's seafood tradition.
Scacce
Scacce, also known as schiacciate di Siracusa, are small baked flatbreads that can be stuffed or rolled. The filling can vary: from eggplant to tomato to sausage. These flatbreads are ideal for a quick lunch during winter walks through the streets of Ortigia.
Cuccìa
Cuccìa is a traditional Syracuse dessert that is typically eaten on December 13, St. Lucy's Day. It is prepared with boiled wheat, sugar, butter, chocolate and milk. In short, it is ideal for dessert lovers and those who crave a winter delicacy to celebrate local history and culture.
Vavvaluci alla siracusana
Vavvaluci, or snails, alla siracusana are prepared with a condiment made of tomato, garlic, parsley and chili pepper. This dish is typical of winter holidays and offers a unique flavor that reflects the city's culinary tradition.
Pasta with sardines
Pasta with sardines is a traditional Sicilian dish that combines pasta, fresh sardines, wild fennel, pine nuts, raisins, and saffron. This dish is particularly popular for its combination of sweet and savory flavors.
Baked Cassata
Baked cassata is a variation of the traditional Sicilian cassata, prepared with a shortcrust pastry base filled with sweetened ricotta and chocolate chips. This dessert is typical of winter holidays and Christmas celebrations.