Panelle is a common street food in Sicily, but especially in Palermo. There, it can be found served from bars — which, in Italy, are more like cafes — food trucks, and even stands attached to the back of motorbikes. While you can visit restaurants to get your fix of these fritters, keep in mind that panelle is, and always has been a humble food. Sold for as little as $3, panelle is not meant to be fancy, and it’s best when it’s enjoyed that way. Eat like a local Italian and stop at a stand on the street for a quick, casual bite while you’re exploring the city, or enjoy it as an appetizer with a nice, cold, Italian beer.
It probably comes as no surprise to learn that the best panelle is found in Palermo. Some of the most rated vendors include the likes of Dainotti’s Cibo di Strada in the El Capo market and Nni Franco U Vastiddaru near the El Capo port. But, if you want to get a good one without going all the way to Italy, your best bet will be to find a Sicilian restaurant near you. Amuni, a Sicilian restaurant in Brooklyn, New York, has a panelle sandwich that’s garnered some buzz. So has Sfera, a Sicilian street food cafe in Chicago. But, depending on where you live, you may have to do your own research — or, you could always try your hand at making it yourself.
