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Sicilian Street Food: A Way of Life

Don’t be surprised if, while wandering around Sicily, you see people eating while walking, shopping at the market, or even while talking business — or love.

Here, people eat at any time of day, and always with their hands — or better yet, with their fingers.

Street food in Sicily is made of small, flavorful bites, often fried or grilled, cooked outdoors, and passed down through generations — immune to time itself.
These dishes represent the true essence of Sicilian tradition, shaped by centuries of daily life.

An Ancient Tradition

Street food in Sicily is not a recent trend.
It dates back to the Greek cities of Sicily, where the “thermopolion” served ready-to-eat meals to travelers and locals alike.
In other words, the concepts of takeaway and fast food were born on this island over two thousand years ago.

Today, it’s known as “cucina di strada” or “buffittien” — from the French buffet — and it’s an integral part of the island’s rich culinary heritage, representing the oldest and most authentic branch of Sicilian cuisine.

Where to Find It

You can still experience this vibrant food culture in ancient markets, narrow alleys, and small piazzas of coastal cities like Catania, Syracuse, and Agrigento.
But it’s in Palermo that street food truly reigns supreme, following centuries-old rituals and schedules that remain unchanged.

A Feast for the Spirit

For Sicilians, food has never been just about nourishment — it’s about pleasure, emotion, and connection.
In Sicily, you don’t simply eat; you celebrate.
Every bite is a way to feed the spirit as much as the body — a small act of joy in everyday life.