Best bars where to eat a Sicilian Granita: Vanity Fair's recommendations

When talking about Granita Sicilian, one ventures into a world of flavours, traditions and textures that is difficult to describe in words, but which absolutely must be experienced first-hand. The famous magazine Vanity Fair, in an article signed by Olga Noel Winderling, has compiled a not-to-be-missed guide that crosses Sicily, from Palermo in Taormina, discovering the island's best granitas.

Winderling points out that explaining what Sicilian granita is to someone who has never tasted it on the spot is a daunting task. Describing it as simple 'very fine ice' does not do justice to its unique texture, and talking about its creaminess risks confusing it with a sorbet or even ice cream.

According to local tradition, granita is eaten at breakfast, often accompanied by the soft and fragrant 'brioscia'. However, it can be enjoyed at any time of day, perhaps topped with a generous layer of fresh cream. The author's most recommended variants? Strawberry and coffee.

Eden – Messina

The award-winning Torre Faro eatery famous for its granitas - also in maxi version - and its gigantic brioches is a must-visit destination. There are many varieties of flavours, from the classic 'mezza con panna' to pistachio, many times awarded by specialised sites and trade magazines.

Pasticceria Cappello – Palermo

At 68 Via Colonna Rotta, it has been an institution since 1944. In addition to the superlative seasonal granitas - don't miss the coffee one - the cassatas are also worth a stop.

Caffè Europa – Catania

A few minutes from the centre and the sea, in Corso Italia 302, it offers particularly creamy granitas. Famous is the pistachio one, with its natural bright green colour and intense aftertaste.

Caffè Sicilia – Noto

Among the most popular granitas are almond and black mulberry. The fig and chilli granita is worth tasting.

BamBar – Taormina

A must-visit destination even among VIPs - from Richard Gere to Fiorello - it was the bar where Simona Tabasco took refuge during the filming of White Lotus. Her favourite granita is the one with Avola almonds, indeed the most popular, but if you are in Taormina around September and October, try the pomegranate one as well.

Da Alfredo – Lingua, Isola di Salina

Another institution, where you can enjoy granitas made with seasonal fruit and local raw materials, from figs to prickly pears, from mulberries to lemons from Salina. There are of course no shortage of classics (almond, pistachio, chocolate and sometimes ricotta). The bar also offers savoury specialities, and is famous - in addition to its granitas - for its cunzatu bread, with a large diameter, toasted and topped with a variety of island products such as tuna, tomatoes, capers, olives or almonds.