If Rome is the heart of Italy, then Venice could be considered its stomach. My favourite part about the cucina Veneta is the variety. Fresh, local ingredients are at the root of every dish, and there’s no reason why they shouldn’t be. The region’s prime position, anchored between land and sea, allows for daily catches of fish and seafood (what an evocative name—frutti di mare, the “fruits of the sea”). Just a few of the local catches? These seaborne ingredients mingle with seasonal vegetables and meats from independent farmers, and hearty risottos from the nearby rice fields. Lest we forget the wine—this is the home of celebrated varieties like Valpolicella, Amarone and Prosecco.
To dine like a Venetian, start your evening before dinner even begins. Venetians enjoy gathering prior to their main meal to socialize over tapas and cichetti (Italian-style snacks). You’ll find them nibbling with a glass of wine in hand (surely a label from the Veneto) in their neighbourhood bacari, which are intimate and lively wine bars that are usually tucked away on side streets or in quiet squares.
These bacari and other more relaxed spots like trattoria (taverns) are typically open from around 12 pm to 2 pm for lunch service and reopen from 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm for a light dinner or aperitivo. Fine dining establishments will generally serve lunch between 1 pm and 3 pm and dinner between 7:30 pm and 10 pm. Seemingly born with impeccable style, the Venetians like to dress up. While smart casual is fine for bacari and trattorias, men should wear jackets (though a tie is not necessary) for dinner service.
Though a daunting task, we managed to narrow down our 15 favourite spots to sip and savour the local cuisine in Venice. Find yours on our list below.
CASUAL SPOTS FOR LUNCH AND DINNER
Alle Testiere
This small and charming spot houses only 20 seats, allowing guests to dine on fresh seafood and shellfish in an intimate and warm atmosphere. Don’t expect to look up the menu before you go; it all depends on the daily catches at the market.
Lineadombra
Linedombra’s dreamy terrace seemingly floats above the Giudecca canal, creating a romantic setting to enjoy a glass of wine from their award-winning selection. Inside is just as inviting, with sleek modern furnishings accented by a warm touch of exposed wooden beams.
Naranzaria
Located in Rialto, the heart of Venice, Naranzaria occupies a former warehouse of Mediterranean citrus fruits. Their light menu includes a selection of salads (including the ever-so-Italian fennel and orange insalate), organic soups and pasta and Italian cheeses and charcuterie.
Osteria Enoteca San Marco
Find this elegant yet relaxed restaurant and wine bar just steps away from the bustling Piazza San Marco. Their wine list that offers over 300 bottles is sure to satisfy even the most discerning oenologists.
Aqua Pazza
Get a taste of the Amalfi in the centre of Venice at Aqua Pazza, where Mediterranean flavours dominate a menu of mouth-watering seafood, pasta, and Neapolitan-style pizzas. Be sure to snag a spot on their beautiful terrace in the Campo Sant’Angelo.
Harry’s Dolci
Harry Dolci’s tranquil position on an island separated by Giudecca Canal from the central part of the city is a welcome respite from the crowds. Look on as yachts and barges pass you by from your table draped in white linen.
Antiche Carampane
Tucked away on a side street between Campo San Paolo and the Rialto fish market, Antiche Carampane is an osteria away from the big tourist walks. Sample fantastic and fresh fish in a cozy atmosphere.
Bancogiro
Located just beside the Rialto Bridge, dining on Bancogiro’s outdoor terrace overlooking the Grand Canal is a moment you won’t soon forget. Their menu rotates to align with the flavours of the season and sees an updated wine list to match.
Vini da Gigio
Located in the Cannaregio sestiere (district) near the Santa Lucia train station, this rustic trattoria will make you feel like you’re at home with your Italian relatives. The small menu of classic Venetian dishes ensures that each plate receives the care it deserves.
Address: Sestiere, Calle Stua Cannaregio, 3628A, 30121 Venezia, Italy
Phone: +39 041 528 5140