Enna Sicily, Italy Travel Guide
Sicilian food is a fusion of Greek, Roman, Arab, Norman, plus Spanish culinary traditions. Enna’s cuisine, on the island's interior, has a distinct identity. It emphasizes rustic, robust dishes, using locally grown produce, legumes, grains, and meats.
It is different from the often fish-heavy menus on the coast.
A light meal, typically an espresso or cappuccino and a delightful pastry like a "cornetto." Savory options are rare outside larger hotels.
Often the main meal. It contains a "primo" (pasta or soup), a "secondo" (meat or fish), and a "contorno" (vegetable side dish).
Similar structure to lunch, although sometimes lighter. Dinner usually begins around 8:00 PM and lasts late as evening approaches.
A pre-dinner tradition, usually 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Order a drink (e.g., Aperol Spritz), and complimentary snacks come with it.
Enna’s famous saffron-infused sheep's cheese with black peppercorns, known for its yellow color and spicy notes. Enjoy as table cheese or grated over pasta.
Find at local delis (salumerie) or niche food shops.
A hearty, creamy purée from dried fava beans, often with wild fennel or pasta. A rustic Sicilian peasant dish.
Look for it in traditional trattorias, especially in cooler months.
Pasta (tagliatelle or ravioli) with fresh, sweetened ricotta cheese. Sometimes with a simple sauce made from tomatoes or grated Piacentinu Ennese.
Widely available at trattorias and restaurants.
Sample local Sicilian wines like Nero d'Avola (red) or Grillo and Inzolia (whites). Limoncello (lemon liqueur) and various Amari (herbal digestifs) are popular after-dinner drinks. Granita, a semi-frozen dessert, serves as a refreshing non-alcoholic treat, usually for breakfast with brioche.
Cannoli: Crispy fried pastry shells with sweet ricotta cheese, decorated with candied fruit, chocolate chips, or pistachios. Gelato: Italian frozen dessert in numerous flavors from artisanal gelaterias. Seasonal foods appear during Easter and Autumn harvest festivals (sagre).
Enna has a limited number of high-end fine dining establishments. Focus is more on traditional trattorias with a refined touch, employing local ingredients with elegant presentation.
Numerous traditional italian diners and osterias provide authentic, delicious, and good-value traditional Sicilian and Ennese cuisine. These are excellent choices for a satisfying meal in a relaxed atmosphere.
For economical options, try pizzerias (dine-in or take-away), bars for coffee, pastries, arancini, and paninis, and local bakeries for fresh bread and sfincione.
Vegetarian choices are fairly easy to find: pasta with vegetable sauces (e.g., eggplant, pesto, fresh tomato), various vegetable side dishes (contorni), and dairy product from milk-based dishes. Vegan options are more challenging but possible with clear communication, focusing on tomato-based pasta, vegetable soups, and salads.
Always confirm no meat broth in sauces for vegan choices.
Awareness of gluten-free needs is growing. Some larger or modern restaurants may have gluten-free pasta or pizza. Pharmacies often stock packaged gluten-free products. For other allergies, inform staff clearly, using simple Italian phrases or an allergy card.
Halal and Kosher options are extremely limited, if available.
Formal classes are limited directly in Enna. Some agriturismo may offer informal cooking demonstrations on Sicilian specialties.
Visit local dairy farms that make cheese (Piacentinu Ennese DOP) or agriturismo for insights into olive oil or wine production.
Local "sagre" throughout the year celebrate products like artichokes or cheese. Check local calendars.
Restaurants in Enna Alta offer spectacular panoramic views over the Sicilian countryside and Europe's Most active volcano.
Look for 'pasta al pomodoro' (tomato-based sauce pasta), 'minestrone' (vegetable soup), or 'insalate' (salads). Confirm no items of animal origin like cheese or meat broth.
Plain bread and focaccia are often vegan, yet always ask.
Italian pharmacists are a good source for packaged gluten-free items. Larger grocery stores may also stock a limited range. Dining out, focus on naturally gluten-free dishes like barbecued meats or salads, or ask for "senza glutine" pasta/pizza.
Cross-contamination can be a concern in smaller kitchens.
Enna's weekly markets are perfect for sourcing fresh, local ingredients.
Basic Italian phrases for dining are very useful. Most restaurant staff appreciate the effort. Carry a written note about severe allergies.
Some agriturismo properties in the countryside may offer relaxed cooking presentations by arrangement. These focus on traditional Sicilian specialties and provide hands-on experience.
Food tours may be organized as part of larger Sicily tours that include Enna, perhaps emphasizing local cheese or wine. For broader options, consider tours available through GetYourGuide in major Sicilian cities.
During autumn, you may find olive oil mills (frantoi) open for visits, a chance to learn about local production. Wineries in the broader Ennese province greet visitors for sampling and tours.
Be aware of "coperto" (cover charge per person) and "servizio" (service charge, usually 10-15%). These are widespread and not a separate tip.
No further advice is needed should a service charge be on the bill.
Many restaurants close between lunch (1 PM - 3 PM) and dinner (starting around 8 PM). Planning meals surrounding these hours prevents disappointment.
Bars often have continuous service for lighter fare.
Look for dishes utilizing lentils, chickpeas, and fresh ricotta, reflecting Enna's agricultural focus.
This saffron-infused sheep's cheese is an unique local treasure; try it on its own or grated over pasta.
Meals frequently feature wild fennel, mint, artichokes, and broad beans depending on the season.
Embrace the leisurely pace of Italian dining. It is a public event, not a quick-service food experience.
