I arrived at Ciccio in Pentola with an illustrious recommendation, and that alone raised the bar. The risk, in these cases, is that anticipation surpasses reality. Here, the opposite happened. Reality took its place, smiled, and began serving dishes that were more convincing than the last.
We ate outside, in the gentle June breeze, but above all, the interior speaks volumes about the place. Palermitan elegance without ostentation, exposed stone, well-kept tables, just the right lighting, and that rare sense of welcome without being invasive.
Then there are the owners, present with grace, and especially Bruno, who deserves a special mention. He didn't simply recommend. He accompanied the meal with intelligence, reading the table, the taste, and the moment. From the dishes to the wine, every choice came naturally, without textbook rigidity or unnecessary theatricality.
The raw fish was incredibly fresh, clean, and crisp, with that quality that needs no tricks. Scampi, shrimp, tartare, and cod all spoke the language of the sea, but with perfect diction.
The paccheri with shrimp was a small manifesto of Mediterranean cuisine. Pasta, tomato, shellfish, a flavorful base, and balance. No frills, just well-prepared ingredients and a sure hand. Even the catch of the day, with potatoes, cherry tomatoes, capers, and olives, or in a slightly smoked version, had that Sicilian tone, capable of being both simple and cultured, down-to-earth and precise.
The wine was chosen with the same logic. Not to impress, but to accompany. A local wine, consistent with the meal, served without posturing. And when a wine truly accompanies, it means someone has understood the meal before even pouring it.
In short, five stars because six can't be given. But that's the gist. A place where you eat very well, feel better, and leave with the rare feeling of having been not simply served, but cared for.
In Palermo, there are many ways to experience the sea. Here at Ciccio's, the sea arrives at the table polite, generous, and in splendid form.
Peppe Leoni
.
03 Giugno 2026
10,0
The food was good, fresh fish and dishes with slightly unusual recipes. Everything was very good, but the plates weren't particularly large, and I personally found the prices high. For about 10 people, we each had one course (first or second course), mixed appetizers, two Grillo wines, and a non-alcoholic drink or Spritz before dinner.
The main courses ranged between €20 and €30, which I thought was excessive, especially considering the portions, which weren't particularly generous, but the food was very good.
The location is a small, well-organized restaurant with just a few seats. The service was quick, but I found the head waiter to be a bit intrusive and unpleasant.
I won't return, even though I ate very well. The prices were too high for the portions (though the quality was good). I didn't appreciate the presence of the head waiter (I don't know if he's the owner).
Massimiliano Sessa
.
24 Maggio 2026
6,0
My girlfriend and I are regulars at this restaurant, and I can honestly say that every time we've been there, it's been an unforgettable experience. We highly recommend it if you want delicious, high-quality food served by friendly, kind, and respectful staff. Thanks to Ciccio in Pentola, always :)
My girlfriend and I are regulars at this restaurant, and I can honestly say that every time we've been there, it's been an unforgettable experience. Highly recommended if you want delicious, good-quality food served by friendly, kind, and respectful staff. Thanks to Ciccio in Pentola, always :)
Andrea Li Greci
.
13 Maggio 2026
10,0
Best meal in Palermo so far! Lovely local family restaurant with first class food for grown-ups
Judy Batt
.
10 Maggio 2026
8,0
Excellent spot, a little off the beaten path from the main square. Lovely interior atmosphere.
An original starter.
Our fish was delicious and well-presented!
Highly recommended!
Muriel Yvernon
.
28 Aprile 2026
10,0
Honestly, this restaurant was a bit disappointing. It had been recommended to us by people from Palermo. The dishes looked very inviting, but in my opinion, it was the taste that was disappointing. We tried the pasta with sardines and the squid ink pasta. The fish for the main course were really not good; they were dry and had little sauce. In short, I wouldn't recommend it.
Francesca Ferlaino
.
27 Aprile 2026
6,0
An extremely positive experience for a restaurant I've been frequenting for years, which consistently delivers excellent quality at fair prices. Last time, I had an excellent octopus carpaccio and a sea bream in an orange crust, expertly prepared and very tasty. Excellent selection of desserts and a wine list. The owners and wait staff are friendly and professional.
Danilo Anastasi
.
20 Aprile 2026
8,0
Quality products, professional service, and a very pleasant atmosphere.
A flower in the desert
Recommended
Francesco Cerbone
.
17 Aprile 2026
10,0
Great atmosphere, lovely food and really kind servers. Would definitely love to come again
Bunmi Ayeh
.
07 Aprile 2026
10,0
Eating well in a welcoming place