Ristorante Vecchia Marina Cefalù

The view at this restaurant is absolutely stunning – especially during sunset. It was truly breathtaking and one of the highlights of our evening. We had the chance to enjoy a beautiful sunset right from our table, and it made the whole atmosphere feel magical. The staff were lovely and kind. However, the main dish we ordered (octopus, listed as the daily special) was disappointing. It was clearly frozen beforehand, and when served, it was overly chewy and didn’t taste very fresh. The other dishes were okay – not bad, but nothing particularly memorable. Considering the quality of the food, the prices felt quite high for what we got. If you’re looking for a place with a breathtaking view and sweet service, this spot is worth a visit – but I’d recommend keeping your food expectations moderate or going for simpler dishes.

Amazing experience! We got a table right on the water and the ambiance was incredible. The food was fresh, delicious and perfectly cooked. Portion sizes were generous and the service was excellent. Also great wine list. Would definitely go again!

We were attracted by the “Aquarium” presented outside. Nice ambiance and fresh fish. The chef is young and very competent. Good job!

The restaurant is located in a great spot, right in the center of Cefalù, with a wonderful view of the sunset. The menu looks well-curated and balanced. Unfortunately, the service does not live up to the restaurant’s ambitions at all. Upon entering, there was only one other table occupied in the entire restaurant. We were greeted by an extremely arrogant and condescending waiter named Fabricio, who took our order with clear mockery. When we kindly asked if they could slightly open a window so we could enjoy the sunset, he responded with the same mocking tone, saying they were expecting a storm and that’s why it couldn’t be opened. The octopus was incredibly tough. When we tried to make a complaint, they started explaining that it had just been taken from the sea and that this was its typical taste. However, we’ve had octopus many times before-Italy, Portugal, Greece, Spain and it was clear that the issue was simply poor preparation. The pasta – Pasta alla Norma – was incredibly delicious. However, the first portion had a hair in it, so we had to send it back. The owner personally apologized and changed our waiter. From that point on, we were served by Martina, who was extremely kind, cheerful, and polite – a complete contrast to the rude behavior of the previous waiter. On the contrary, she apologized and genuinely tried to make things right. By the end of the evening, in the relatively large restaurant, there was only one other occupied table besides ours, and there were three staff members present. The quality of service did not match the restaurant’s ambitions in any way. Once again, I want to highlight that Martina did a wonderful job – she was very kind and attentive. However, Fabrizio seriously undermines the reputation of this establishment, if the owner want to have happy customers- he needs to put attention on the personal. (P.s. for the octopus we have been “reimbursed”- which was funny. Portion costs 18E and they discounted at 12e. If you do smth like this- better provide dessert, or wine or anything- not just “removing” the profit on it)

I would not recommend this restaurant. The first courses were served very quickly, so we asked the waiter to wait with the main courses. Unfortunately, the staff did not listen and it was served right away. We got the side dishes before the main dishes were served (very weird, because we didn’t have cutlery nor plates in front of us). The tuna main course was not very tasty, the other dishes were okay - not particularly memorable. Considering the quality of the food, the prices were to high in our opinion. The staff was very (!) unpleasant from the beginning. A single smile was to much to ask, from either of the three waiters. When you pay €60 pp for lobster, you could expect some service. Knowing the prices, it is not worth a visit; there were to many mistakes. Main courses were fired before we had finished our starters, courses were served while 2 people around the table were missing, wine was only poured once, there were no amuses (which you would expect at a high-end restaurant like this). The views were stunning, but to many ‘influencers’ had to take a pictures all the time, which didn’t help the overall atmosphere. We were not the only one bothered by all this, the two tables next to us were experiencing the same problems and pointed them out as well. The restaurant was not full, not even close, but somehow they wanted the guests gone as soon as possible.

Beautiful view, great service, and DELICIOUS food!! I will be coming back again!!

Great staff ,nice atmosphere fantastic place to eat octopus by the sea!! Great lunch pause!!

Very poor service, unfriendly staff, and they pressure you to order as soon as you get a table. Super high prices and very low food quality. The only spectacular thing about the restaurant is the great view. Personally, I don't recommend this place for a pleasant lunch.