Its cobbled facade in the old village of Taormina is justa glimpse of the archeological treasures that await diners at Aranciara. From afar it looks like a mom and pop eatery with its charming courtyard entrance and umbrella awning scribbled quintessential Italian cursive. Inside, white walls are adorned with rustic timbers around thatch-seat chairs with dark woodwork at white tabletops. Part of the formal dining room features a glass floors revealing Roman Greco finds discovered through the restaurant excavation. No more than 75 guests at a time, the restaurant is a popular stomping ground for incognito celebrities especially during the annual film festival.
The Food
Meals at Aranciara begin with mixed fish starter on a bed of arugula or a platter of assorted mixed fish. First course includes pasta with pungent sardines, eggplant-filled raviolis and a spaghetti with jumbo prawns and pistachio. A number of sides like Caponata, and Eggplant Parmigiana compliment ala carte portions of locally-caught fish, meatballs in lemon leaves and rolled swordfish in a lemony oil sauce as main course.
Last Word
During warmer months, a seat in the garden courtyard with its native orange tress and whimsical yellow bistro chairs is essential.
