Sicily Uncovered: Street Food, Wine Regions, and the Art of Slowing Down

Apr 10, 2025

Linda Sarris, a Sicilian travel expert and private chef, shares her love for Sicily, revealing why it enchants visitors. She discusses navigating the vibrant street food scene, highlighting must-try dishes. Discover the unique characteristics of Sicilian wines and tips for savoring them. Linda emphasizes the importance of slow travel, encouraging immersion in local culture rather than rushing between attractions. With insider insights on budgeting and hidden gems, she paints a picture of Sicily as a gastronomic paradise worth exploring.

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ANECDOTE

From NYC Chef to Sicily Expert

Linda transitioned from NYC private chef to Sicilian food and travel expert by embracing local culture.
Her NYC contacts helped start a food and wine tourism business connecting visitors with Sicily authentically.

ANECDOTE

Instant Connection to Sicily

Linda Sarris moved from NYC to Sicily feeling an instant connection despite not being Italian.
Her Mediterranean background helped her feel at home almost immediately upon arrival.

INSIGHT

Sicily’s Rhythm Enhances Travel

Sicilian life valuing slow pace transforms travel into deeper, richer experiences.
Rituals like long meals and evening strolls enhance everyday appreciation of small joys.

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What is it about Sicily that makes travelers fall in love (and some never leave)?

Linda Sarris is a Sicilian travel expert, private chef, and the author of three Moon Travel Guides covering Sicily and Southern Italy. After building her career as a private chef in New York City, she followed her passion for food and culture to Palermo, Italy, where she’s been based for the past eight years. Today, she runs a food and wine-focused travel business, offering immersive experiences that help travelers taste and explore Sicily like a local.

In this episode, we explore what it’s like to visit Sicily through a local lens: where to eat, what to drink, and how to be in a place that runs on a different rhythm.

Linda shares her favorite street food, the wine regions worth a detour, and how Sicilian life has shifted her relationship with time, connection, and even ambition. You’ll get insider secrets to authentic Sicilian cuisine, practical advice for planning your visit, and more.

What makes you most interested in visiting Sicily? I'd love to hear your thoughts, and I hope you’ll share them by sending me an audio message.

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Tune In To Learn:

Why Sicily captured Linda’s heart (and kept her there)
How to navigate Sicilian street food culture and what to try first
What makes Sicilian wines special and the best way to experience them
What you can expect to spend on accommodations, transportation, and food
Tips for avoiding tourist traps and finding hidden gems
The subtle differences between mainland Italy and Sicily
Why Sicily’s slower pace can shift your whole mindset
And so much more

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