La Terrazza del Barone

La Terrazza del Barone is a local grill and trattoria at Via Lago di Nicito 3/5 in the Antico Corso district of Catania, known for horse meat. It belongs to the city's putia tradition, in which meat is grilled over charcoal and served in an informal setting at modest prices. Grilled horse meat is the main specialty, prepared as steaks and cuts chosen from the display, and horse-meat sandwiches offer a quicker and cheaper way to try the local taste. Gnocchi appear on the menu for diners who want a pasta course before the grill, and antipasti and side dishes complete the typical meal. Horse meat has been part of Catanese cooking for generations, particularly in working-class neighbourhoods, and visitors interested in regional food customs will find it a representative example. The name suggests a terrace, and outdoor seating may be available in warm weather, though this should be confirmed on arrival. The atmosphere is casual, noisy and sociable, with a mix of local families and curious visitors, and there is no dress code. House wine and beer are the usual drinks, and the beverage list is basic. Prices are low, commonly EUR 12 to 22 per person depending on the amount of meat ordered. Opening hours are not confirmed, so visitors should phone +39 347 2525225, a mobile number, before going, particularly outside the standard evening dinner window. Reservations are advisable for groups and for Friday and Saturday evenings, when grill restaurants of this kind fill quickly, and booking the same day or a day ahead is usually enough. Vegetarians will find a limited choice. The Antico Corso location is a short walk from Via Etnea and the centre, so the grill fits easily into an evening in Catania after sightseeing.