We just had an excellent, 6-week stay in Messina at Grazia's. Would wholly recommend.
*Accessible building (my little daughter was in a wheelchair).
*Very spacious place, which Grazia has thoughtfully stocked.
*Fantastic location (a walk to the market and major streets and the university was just 5-15 minutes. Close to bus and tram stops.
*Great open air fish market a quick walk, as well as a Mozerella place, bakeries, cafes, and supermarkets.
*Recs for local lunch spot: (that may be hard to find given the weird hours in Messina): CasaRamona. Lovely dinner spots included La Cugina and Number One, not very far.