Al Padrino

The no frills trattoria Al Padrino in Messina will give you a dining experience as if you were in your own home - the idea being it's relaxed and informal with simple but classic Messinese dishes.

If your budget is tight and you are looking for a simple restaurant with great food and a 'real feel' atmosphere, then the Al Padrino restaurant is the one to try.

This place attracts working class locals and it can be both rather hot and cramped but you will eat well as the Al Padrino ristorante serves hearty food and the portions are more than generous. Try out Risotto ai frutti di mare (seafood risotto), or a classic Sicilian dish, Maccheroni alla Norma.

Don't forget to wash it all down with a glass of local wine.