Guest post by Alexander & Laura of the expert travel blog, Lost Between Oceans.
Venice is a treasure trove of gastronomic experiences. With an enviable position in the world=famous lagoon, seafood is in abundance on menus throughout the island city. Just imagine tucking into something delicious by the waterside, enjoying the sights and sounds of activity on the canals.
Just like Florence or the Amalfi Coast, Venice has its own culinary customs, many of which revolve around seafood, ranging from small prawns straight from the lagoon to crispy portions of fritto misto (assorted fried seafood and vegetables). Additionally, cicchetti, served in Venetian bacari (wine bars), represents a centuries-old Venetian take on tapas.
Our top tip for making the most of food to try in Venice is this: if the menu is a compilation of classic Italian dishes, we advise you to continue your search elsewhere; it’s preferable to leave Italian stereotypes like pizza to Naples and Rome – in fact did you know that Venice mostly prohibits wood-fired ovens?
Scout out local dishes, famous within the region and with a tasty history too. Let’s delve deeper into our top 7 picks of the best food to try in Venice!
1. Ciccheti at Cantina Do Mori
Begin your culinary adventure at Cantina Do Mori, the oldest (!) bacaro in Venice, founded in 1462. Nestled in the shadows of the Rialto Market, this historic spot is famous for its ciccheti, small snacks or side dishes that are perfect for a light lunch or an early evening appetizer. The vibe, filled with copper pots hanging from the ceiling and locals crowding the bar for a glass of wine, transports you back in time. Don’t miss out on their signature dish, the polpette (meatballs), a perfect pairing with a glass of local prosecco.
2. Seafood at Antiche Carampane
If you are a seafood lover, we recommend you visit Antiche Carampane. This hidden gem is away from the tourist trails. You’ll find seafood as fresh as it can get. The menu changes daily based on the catch, and each dish tells a story of Venetian tradition and the lagoon’s bounty. Signature dishes include the spaghetti al nero di sepia (spaghetti with squid ink) and the fritto misto (mixed fried seafood), both embodying the essence of Venice’s relationship with the sea.
3. Risotto at Osteria Boccadoro
No visit to Venice would be complete without savouring a plate of exquisitely creamy risotto. Osteria Boccadoro, located in the quiet Campo Widmann, specialises in this classic Venetian dish. The risotto al nero di sepia (risotto with squid ink) offers a deep, rich flavour that you won’t find anywhere else. The restaurant’s focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients elevates the simple rice dish into a true culinary experience.
4. Gelato at Suso Gelatoteca
After exploring the labyrinth of Venice’s streets, a refreshing gelato is well-deserved. Suso Gelatoteca stands out not only for its prime location near the Rialto Bridge but also for its inventive flavours that go beyond the ordinary. Each scoop of the pistachio is a testament to the craftsmanship and creativity of Italian gelato makers. The gelato here is the perfect sweet treat to enjoy as you wander along the Grand Canal.
5. Traditional Venetian Dinner at Ristorante Al Covolo
End your day with a dinner at Ristorante Al Covolo, a cosy restaurant that champions traditional Venetian cuisine with a focus on sustainability and local ingredients. The husband-and-wife team behind this restaurant ensures each dish is special. You can find the best food in Venice in this restaurant. They serve the amazing baccalà mantecato (creamed cod) and the sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines), dishes that have delighted local Venetians for centuries.
6. Vegetarian Delights at La Tecia Vegana
If you love vegetarian options, La Tecia Vegana is a must-visit. This charming restaurant, the first vegan restaurant in Venice, offers a delightful twist on classic Italian and Venetian dishes. With a focus on organic and locally sourced ingredients, the menu boasts an array of flavorful options, like the zucca in saor (sweet and sour pumpkin) and vegan lasagna al pesto. It’s a refreshing break from the saltiness of the seafood-based Venetian diet.
7. Pastries at Pasticceria Tonolo
No Venetian food tour is complete without diving into the city’s sweet side. Pasticceria Tonolo, a local restaurant since 1886, is the best spot for sweet food in Venice. Here, you’ll be tempted by the selection of sweet treats, including the frittelle, a seasonal favourite during Carnevale, and the internationally famous tiramisu, a classic that never fails to delight.
Now you’re all geared up to search out the best food to try in Venice, where will you head first? Well, make your first stop Oliver’s Travels to find the finest apartments and homes in Venice so you have somewhere sensational to retire back to following your gastronomic journey. Then, get in contact with our friendly concierge team who will happily advise and help to book any fabulous extras to make your Venetian getaway truly memorable.
