Explore the best restaurants in Venice, Italy, where culinary delights await. From traditional trattorias to gourmet dining experiences, discover 10 top spots to savour authentic Venetian cuisine. Indulge in unforgettable flavours on your next Italian adventure.
Venice is a true culinary gem. This floating city on the Adriatic Sea has a rich gastronomic heritage that is deeply rooted in its unique history and culture. From the fresh seafood caught in the lagoons to the locally sourced produce and artisanal ingredients, Venice’s restaurants offer an unparalleled dining experience.
Ristorante Alle Testiere: A Hidden Gem in Venice
Tucked away in the charming Castello district, Ristorante Alle Testiere is a true hidden gem in Venice. This intimate, family-run restaurant boasts a menu that showcases as the best restaurants in Venice, Italy, that serves the best of Venetian seafood. The owners, Bruno and Luca, have a deep passion for sourcing the freshest and most sustainable ingredients, which they then transform into masterful culinary creations.
One dish that truly exemplifies their commitment to quality is the classic spaghetti alle vongole or spaghetti with clams. The delicate clams are sourced from the nearby lagoons, and the pasta is cooked to perfection, allowing the flavours of the sea to shine. Another standout is the risotto di pesce, a creamy rice dish that features a medley of fresh-caught fish and shellfish.
What sets Ristorante Alle Testiere apart is its dedication to preserving the traditions of Venetian cuisine while also incorporating modern techniques and flavours. The intimate setting, with its exposed brick walls and candlelit tables, creates a cosy and welcoming atmosphere that complements the exceptional food. It is one of the best restaurants in Venice, Italy
Osteria Alle Testiere: Traditional Venetian Cuisine at Its Finest
PHOTO: PIXABAY
Just a stone’s throw away from its sister restaurant, Ristorante Alle Testiere, Osteria Alle Testiere is a local favourite that offers a more casual and authentic Venetian dining experience.
One of the standout items on the menu is the baccalà mantecato, a creamy and decadent salt cod spread that is a beloved Venetian speciality. Served with crisp crostini, this dish is a true taste of the lagoon. Another must-try is the fegato alla veneziana, a classic preparation of sautéed calf’s liver with onions and polenta, which perfectly captures the robust and comforting flavours of Venetian cuisine.
What I love most about Osteria Alle Testiere is the convivial atmosphere and the sense of community that permeates the space. The servers are knowledgeable and passionate about the menu, and they are always happy to offer recommendations and share the stories behind the dishes. This is the kind of place where you can linger over a glass of Prosecco, savour every bite, and truly immerse yourself in the authentic flavours of Venice.
Antiche Carampane: Seafood Delights in the Heart of Venice
Nestled in the heart of the San Polo district, Antiche Carampane is a seafood lover’s paradise. This is one of the best restaurants in Venice. It has been a local institution for decades, renowned for its unwavering commitment to sourcing the freshest and most sustainable seafood from the Venetian lagoons.
One of the standout dishes on the menu is the spaghetti with spider crab, a delicate and flavorful preparation that showcases the delicate sweetness of the crustacean. Another must-try is the fritto misto, a classic Venetian fried seafood platter that features a tantalizing array of small fish, calamari, and shrimp, all perfectly crisp and golden.
What sets Antiche Carampane apart is its dedication to preserving the traditional methods and flavours of Venetian cuisine. The restaurant’s owners, Stefano and Enrico, have a deep understanding of the local culinary heritage and work tirelessly to source the best ingredients and honour the time-honoured recipes that have been passed down through generations.
The intimate and cosy dining room, with its exposed brick walls and candlelit tables, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere that complements the exceptional seafood dishes. Whether you’re craving a classic Venetian meal or you’re eager to explore the diverse flavours of the lagoon, Antiche Carampane is a must-visit destination in Venice.
Trattoria da Romano: A Taste of History and Tradition
Tucked away in the charming Dorsoduro district, Trattoria da Romano is a true gem that offers a glimpse into the rich history and traditions of Venetian cuisine. This family-run restaurant has been in operation since 1951, and it has become a beloved institution among locals and visitors alike.
One of the standout dishes on the menu is the fegato alla veneziana, a classic preparation of sautéed calf’s liver with onions and polenta. This dish is a true testament to the robust and comforting flavours of Venetian cuisine, and it’s a must-try for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the city’s culinary heritage.
Another highlight is the Risi e bisi, a creamy and flavorful rice and pea dish that is a springtime speciality in Venice. The owners, the Barovier family, take great pride in sourcing the finest ingredients and using traditional cooking methods to ensure that each dish is a masterpiece.
What I love most about Trattoria da Romano is the sense of history and tradition that permeates the space. The cosy and intimate dining room, with its wood-beamed ceilings and antique furnishings, transports you back in time and allows you to fully immerse yourself in the authentic flavours of Venice, Italy.
Harry’s Bar: Where the Bellini Was Born
PHOTO: PIXABAY
No list of the best restaurants in Venice would be complete without a mention of the legendary Harry’s Bar. This iconic establishment, founded in 1931 by Giuseppe Cipriani, is not only a culinary institution but also a cultural landmark that has played a significant role in shaping the city’s gastronomic identity.
Harry’s Bar is best known as the birthplace of the Bellini, a refreshing cocktail made with Prosecco and fresh peach puree. This iconic drink has become a symbol of Venetian hospitality and has been enjoyed by countless visitors over the decades.
But the culinary offerings at Harry’s Bar are just as impressive as its cocktail program. The menu features a selection of classic Venetian dishes, including the renowned carpaccio alla Cipriani, a thinly sliced raw beef dish that was first created at the restaurant. Another standout is the spaghetti alle vongole, a delicate and flavorful pasta dish that showcases the freshness of the local seafood.
What sets Harry’s Bar apart is its timeless elegance and the sense of history that permeates the space. The intimate and refined dining room, with its wood-panelled walls and crisp white tablecloths, creates a sophisticated and welcoming atmosphere that complements the exceptional food and drink.
Osteria La Zucca: Vegetarian Delights in Venice
In a city known for its seafood and meat-centric dishes, Osteria La Zucca stands out as a beacon of vegetarian excellence. This charming osteria, located in the Santa Croce district, has been serving up innovative and delicious plant-based fare for over 30 years, earning it a loyal following among both locals and visitors.
One of the standout dishes on the menu is the zucca in crosta, a baked pumpkin dish that is stuffed with a savoury mixture of breadcrumbs, herbs, and Parmesan cheese. The combination of the sweet and creamy pumpkin with the crisp, golden crust is truly a work of art.
Another must-try is the risotto alla zucca, a creamy and comforting rice dish that features roasted pumpkin and a touch of Parmesan. The owners, Maurizio and Nadia, have a deep understanding of seasonal ingredients and use them to create dishes that are both satisfying and visually stunning.
What I love most about Osteria La Zucca is the sense of creativity and innovation that permeates the menu. The chefs are constantly experimenting with new flavour combinations and cooking techniques, always staying true to the principles of seasonal, locally sourced, and sustainable ingredients.
Osteria Bancogiro: A Stunning Canal-Side Dining Experience
Nestled along the banks of the Grand Canal, Osteria Bancogiro offers a truly breathtaking dining experience that seamlessly blends exceptional food with stunning views of the iconic waterway.
As you step into the cosy and inviting dining room, you’ll be greeted by the warm and welcoming staff, who are eager to share their knowledge of the menu and the local culinary traditions. One of the standout dishes is the spaghetti alle vongole, a classic Venetian preparation that features fresh clams sourced from the nearby lagoons.
Another must-try is the baccalà mantecato, a creamy and decadent salt cod spread that is a beloved Venetian speciality. Served with crisp crostini, this dish is a perfect representation of the city’s seafood-centric cuisine.
What sets Osteria Bancogiro apart is its stunning location and the breathtaking views that it offers. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely lunch or an intimate dinner, the panoramic vistas of the Grand Canal and the historic buildings that line its banks create a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Taverna San Trovaso: Traditional Venetian Dishes with a Modern Twist
PHOTO: PIXABAY
Tucked away in the charming Dorsoduro district, Taverna San Trovaso is a hidden gem that offers a unique and innovative take on traditional Venetian cuisine. This cosy and inviting tavern has been a local favourite for decades, thanks to its commitment to sourcing the freshest ingredients and its dedication to preserving the rich culinary heritage of the city.
One of the standout dishes on the menu is the risotto al nero di sepia, a creamy and flavorful rice dish that features the addition of squid ink, which gives it a striking black hue and a bold, briny flavour. Another must-try is the baccalà alla veneziana, a classic preparation of salt cod that has been given a modern twist with the addition of roasted peppers and a tangy balsamic glaze.
What I love most about Taverna San Trovaso is the way it seamlessly blends the traditional and the contemporary, creating a dining experience that is both familiar and novel. The chefs, led by the talented Nicola Trevisan, have a deep understanding of Venetian culinary traditions, but they are not afraid to experiment and push the boundaries of what is possible with these time-honoured recipes.
The intimate and cosy dining room, with its exposed brick walls and warm lighting, creates a welcoming and convivial atmosphere that complements the exceptional food and drink. Whether you’re craving a classic Venetian dish or you’re eager to explore the innovative flavours of the city, Taverna San Trovaso is a must-visit destination in Venice.
Al Covo: A Michelin-Starred Restaurant with a Focus on Local Ingredients
In a city that is renowned for its seafood and traditional Venetian cuisine, Al Covo stands out as a shining example of modern, ingredient-driven dining. This Michelin-starred restaurant is one of the best restaurants in Venice, Italy, located in the charming Castello district, is helmed by the talented chef Cesare Benelli, who has a deep passion for sourcing the freshest and most sustainable ingredients from local producers and artisans.
One of the standout dishes on the menu is spaghetti with sea urchin, a delicate and flavorful preparation that showcases the briny sweetness of the sea urchin. Another must-try is the risotto with shrimp and zucchini, a creamy and comforting dish that highlights the natural sweetness of the ingredients.
What sets Al Covo apart is its unwavering commitment to celebrating the local and seasonal ingredients that define the Venetian culinary landscape. The chefs work closely with a network of trusted producers and farmers to ensure that every dish is a true reflection of the region’s terroir.
The dining room at Al Covo is a study in refined elegance, with its crisp white tablecloths, modern artwork, and stunning views of the nearby canals. The service is impeccable, with the knowledgeable staff offering expert guidance on the menu and the wine list.
Whether you’re seeking a fine dining experience or looking for the best restaurants in Venice, Italy or you’re simply looking to indulge in the best that Venetian cuisine has to offer, Al Covo is a must-visit destination in the city.
Antico Martini: Elegant Dining in a Historic Setting
Nestled in the heart of the San Marco district, Antico Martini is a true gem that offers a dining experience that is both elegant and deeply rooted in the history and traditions of Venice. This historic restaurant, which has been in operation since the 18th century, is a favourite among locals and visitors alike for its exceptional food and stunning setting.
One of the standout dishes on the menu is the risotto alla veneziana, a creamy and flavorful rice dish that features the addition of cuttlefish ink, which gives it a striking black hue and a bold, briny flavour. Another must-try is the spaghetti alle vongole, a classic Venetian preparation that showcases the freshness of the local seafood.
What sets Antico Martini apart is its stunning setting, which transports diners back in time to the golden age of Venetian dining. The elegant and refined dining room, with its ornate chandeliers, frescoed ceilings, and plush velvet furnishings, creates an atmosphere of timeless sophistication that perfectly complements the exceptional food and drink.
The service at Antico Martini is impeccable, with the knowledgeable staff offering expert guidance on the menu and the wine list. Whether you’re seeking a romantic dinner or a special occasion celebration, this historic restaurant is a must-visit destination in Venice.
Whether you’re craving a hearty Venetian meal or you’re simply looking to immerse yourself in the rich culinary heritage of the city, Osteria Al Portego is a must-visit destination as it is one of the best restaurants in Venice, Italy.
If you’re planning a trip to Venice, be sure to add these 10 best restaurants in Venice, Italy to your itinerary. From traditional Venetian cuisine to innovative and modern takes on regional specialities, this guide has something to satisfy every palate. Start planning your culinary journey in Venice today!
