The Best Restaurants in Venice

<p>If Rome is the heart of <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/places-to-go/europe/italy"><u>Italy</u></a>, then <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/places-to-go/europe/italy/veneto">Venice</a> could be considered its stomach. My favourite part about the <i>cucina Veneta </i>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 — <i>frutti di mare</i>, the “fruits of the sea”). 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.</p><p>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 <i>cichetti</i> (Italian-style snacks). You’ll find them nibbling with a glass of wine in hand (surely a label from the Veneto) in their neighbourhood <i>bacari,</i> which are intimate and lively wine bars that are usually tucked away on side streets or in quiet squares.</p>

<p>These bacari<i> </i>and other more relaxed spots like <i>trattoria</i> (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 <i>aperitivo</i>. Fine dining establishments will generally serve lunch between 1 pm and 3 pm and dinner between 7:30 pm and 10 pm.&nbsp;</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p>

<h3><strong>Casual Spots for Lunch &amp; Dinner</strong></h3><h4><a href="http://www.osterialletestiere.it/"><strong><u>Alle Testiere</u></strong></a></h4><p>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.</p><h4><a href="http://www.ristorantelineadombra.com/"><strong><u>Lineadombra</u></strong></a></h4><p>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.</p><h4><a href="http://www.naranzaria.it/"><strong><u>Naranzaria</u></strong></a></h4><p>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 <i>insalata</i>), organic soups and pasta, and Italian cheeses and charcuterie.</p><h4><a href="http://www.osteriasanmarco.it/en"><strong><u>Osteria Enoteca San Marco</u></strong></a></h4><p>Find this elegant yet relaxed restaurant and wine bar just steps away from the bustling Piazza San Marco. Their wine list, offering over 300 bottles, is sure to satisfy even the most discerning oenologists.</p><h4><a href="http://www.veniceacquapazza.com/"><strong><u>Aqua Pazza</u></strong></a></h4><p>Get a taste of the <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/places-to-go/europe/italy/amalfi-coast"><u>Amalfi</u></a> 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.</p>

<h4><a href="http://www.cipriani.com/"><strong><u>Harry’s Dolci</u></strong></a></h4><p>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.</p><h4><a href="http://www.antichecarampane.com/en/"><strong><u>Antiche Carampane</u></strong></a></h4><p>Tucked away on a side street between Campo San Paolo and the Rialto fish market, Antiche Carampane is an <i>osteria</i> away from the big tourist walks. Sample fantastic and fresh fish in a cozy atmosphere.</p><h4><a href="http://www.osteriabancogiro.it/en/"><strong><u>Bancogiro</u></strong></a></h4><p>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.</p><h4><strong><u>Vini da Gigio</u></strong></h4><p>Located in the Cannaregio <i>sestiere</i> (district) near the Santa Lucia train station, this rustic <i>trattoria</i> 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.<br>&nbsp;</p>

<h3><strong>Dinner Only</strong></h3><h4><a href="http://ristorantealcovo.com/"><strong><u>Al Covo</u></strong></a></h4><p>Tradition and locally sourced ingredients are the focus of this family-run establishment that’s been in business since 1987. Extra virgin olive oil and their list of over 240 wines are carefully selected to match their thoughtful menu that uses only ingredients from small-scale producers.</p><p><br><a href="https://www.ristorantedafiore.com/en/"><strong><u>Da Fiore</u></strong></a></p><p>The art of cooking a great meal was passed down to Chef Mara from her grandmother, and today she shares her gift with her welcomed guests at Da Fiore. At one time a Venetian tavern, today this gastronomic address houses a refined dining room matched by high-end service.</p><h4><a href="https://alajmo.it/pages/homepage-ristorante-quadri"><strong><u>Quadri</u></strong></a></h4><p>Awaken your taste buds at Quadri, where traditional Italian dishes get a modern update, as seen in their penne with cuttlefish, ginger, and spring pea ragu and a ricotta cheese <i>cannolo</i> served with pepper tonka bean and cocoa jam.</p><h4><a href="http://www.doforni.it/"><strong><u>Trattoria Do Forni</u></strong></a></h4><p>Do Forni rests on the site of a former bakery that provided bread and sweets for the Doge’s Palace. Nowadays, its opulent dining room sees guests enjoy plates from a menu with a large selection of pasta, risottos, fish and meats.</p><h4><a href="http://www.ilridotto.com/en/home-en/"><strong><u>Il Ridotto</u></strong></a></h4><p>Il Ridotto has been proudly wearing a Michelin star since 2013. Indulge in multi-course tasting menus or an <i>à la carte</i> selection of new takes on classic meals. The minimalist dining room places all the emphasis on the high-quality fare.</p><h4><a href="http://www.estrovenezia.com/"><strong>Estro Vino e Cucina</strong></a></h4><p>This buzzy wine bar and restaurant is the perfect locale to sip on a local Soave or glass of Prosecco. An all-day establishment, you can grab a simple yet divine Italian sandwich for a quick lunch during the day, nosh on some light snacks, <i>aperitivo</i> or settle into a full meal for dinner.</p>

<h3>Island Dining</h3><h4><a href="https://www.venissa.it/en/"><strong><u>Venissa — Mazzorbo Island</u></strong></a></h4><p>Nestled on Mazzorbo Island in the northern part of the Venetian Lagoon, Venissa offers an unforgettable 1-star Michelin dining experience with its seasonal dishes sourced from local ingredients. Surrounded by a peaceful walled vineyard and vegetable gardens, Venissa is the perfect spot to enjoy lunch, dinner or a rare vintage cultivated from white-wine grapes grown exclusively around Venice.</p><h4><a href="https://www.gattonero.com/"><strong><u>Trattoria al Gatto Nero — Burano Island</u></strong></a></h4><p>Located on Burano island, Trattoria al Gatto Nero has been a family-owned affair since 1965. This idyllic island restaurant offers some of the freshest seafood in Burano. Its bright blue façade - and the ever-present lineup of hungry guests outside its door - can be spotted from a mile away.</p><h4><a href="https://locandacipriani.com/dining/"><strong><u>Locanda Cipriani — Torcello Island</u></strong></a></h4><p>Still owned by the Cipriani family today, Locanda Cipriani first opened its doors as a modest inn and restaurant in 1934. With its typical Venetian cuisine,&nbsp;vegetable gardens and charming&nbsp;views of the churches of Torcello, Locanda was a favourite spot among celebrities and royals alike, having hosted Queen Elizabeth II, the&nbsp;Duke of Edinburgh and Ernest Hemingway, who first visited in 1948 and spent an entire month writing his novel <i>Across the River and Into the Trees </i>at his table alongside a rustic Valais fireplace.<br>&nbsp;</p><p><span style="color:rgb(58,58,60);"><i>With a penchant for good food and good drink, the </i></span><a href="https://www.butterfield.com/places-to-go/europe/italy/veneto"><span style="color:rgb(58,58,60);"><i><u>Veneto</u></i></span></a><span style="color:rgb(58,58,60);"><i> region has been a favourite of Butterfield &amp; Robinson for years. Come discover for yourself the Prosecco hills and the Valdobbiadene </i>vino<i>. It's Italy, with a twist!</i></span></p>

Discover the 15 best restaurants in Venice—from traditional bacari and seafood trattorias to refined Michelin-starred dining and authentic Venetian cuisine along the canals.

15 Best Restaurants in Venice | Where to Eat in Venice, Italy

<p>A breadbasket for Italy, the Veneto is home to lovers of good food and drink (consider the exquisite Valpolicella and Amarone wines, for instance). Add in the excellent riding, warm hospitality and colourful local personalities, and you’ll quickly come to understand why we’ve been going there for so many years.</p>

From gondolas to gracious vineyards and historic towns

Cycle Valpolicella vineyards and explore Verona's backstreets on small group or private bespoke trips through the Veneto, with private wine cellar access.

Veneto Bike Tours | Butterfield & Robinson

<p>Step into Veneto's Prosecco region and immerse yourself in the perfect blend of wine, gastronomy and stunning scenery. Follow in the footsteps of ancient saints as you explore DOCG wineries to UNESCO-listed vineyards. With architectural marvels and charming medieval towns along the way, this journey offers a week-long feast for the senses.&nbsp;</p>

Great Walks

One-of-a-kind Hotels

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<p>Prosecco country: where vineyards are UNESCO-listed, saints once wandered, and your toughest decision is red, white, or bubbly. On this self-guided stroll through Veneto, you’ll wander past hilltop towns, sip DOCG gems, and nosh your way through a region that turns indulgence into an art form. Bring your appetite—and maybe leave room in your suitcase.</p>

Sip, Savour, Repeat

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$5,595 based on two travellers. $4,395 based on four travellers.

Spend 5 nights walking the Prosecco Hills in a small group self-guided trip. Vine terraces, medieval hilltop towns and family cellar tastings poured just for

Prosecco Self-Guided Walking Tour: Vine Terraces & Family Cellar Tastings

<p>With no shortage of pristine wineries and charming landscapes punctuated by UNESCO-listed vineyards, the Prosecco hills are a wine lover’s dream. Although known as the place where Italy’s most famous DOCG wine grapes grow, you’ll soon discover this region has so much more to offer. Pedal through medieval towns, learn how to make pasta from scratch and savour the gastronomic delights around every corner. Here, the culinary adventures are as extraordinary as the scenery!</p>

Great Rides

Art and History

<p>In the Prosecco Hills, the bubbles are just the beginning. Ride through rolling vineyards, sip Grappa (slowly) where it was born, and wander medieval towns where even the artwork feels tipsy on beauty. With DOCG vines, Michelin-worthy meals, and landscapes that practically toast you back, this region pairs perfectly with every kind of adventure.</p>

Epicurean escapades along ancient paths

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Spend 5 nights biking the Prosecco Road in a small group self-guided trip. Steep vine terraces, Palladian villas and Asolo's medieval centre at your own pace.

Prosecco Self-Guided Biking Tour: Vine Terraces & Palladian Villas

<p>Head to Veneto—where the prosecco is local, the pasta is rolled fresh, and the sun-drenched hills go on for miles. On this journey, cycle from the UNESCO landscape of the Prosecco hills, through charming villages and historic towns to the shimmering Lago di Garda. Dine with the Count of Vidor in their abbey, savour the taste of Grappa in its homeplace and indulge in the art of cooking authentic ravioli with our friend Serena. Along the way, you’ll be immersed in Veneto’s rich history—in Asolo, one of Italy's most charming historic centres, in Piave River and Salò, important WWI and WWII landmarks, and the Museum Gipsoteca Antonio Canova, where you'll witness the stunning works of the renowned Neoclassical sculptor.&nbsp;</p>

Incredible Rides

Authentic Food

Luxurious Stays

<p>Veneto serves up sun-soaked hills, fresh pasta, and more postcard moments than your camera can handle. Pedal from the bubbly beauty of the Prosecco hills to sparkling Lake Garda, enjoy a private dinner in a historic abbey and roll ravioli with our friend Serena. History, hospitality, and a whole lot of dolce vita? Yes, please.</p>

From the hills to the shores

Featured Stays

<p>Some of the best things in life are enjoyed slowly, which is how we approach our exploration of the Veneto; a region that encompasses the area just south of the central Alps and Dolomites. We begin in timeless Venice, amid the palaces of a bygone era, with the renowned city of canals mere minutes from the start of our first ride. From here, we head west through the Po River valley along an ancient trade and military route—the Roman Road—via Postumia. The Veneto is the breadbasket of Italy, and naturally, the gustatory adventures here are unrivalled: the Prosecco is local, vegetables come straight from the field and pasta has been rolled the morning of. Salute!</p>

Spend 5 nights cycling the Prosecco Hills to Lake Garda in a small group. Vine terraces, Palladian villas and a finish on shores of Italy's most spectacular

Prosecco to Lake Garda Bike Tour: Vine Terraces & Italy's Largest Lake

Great Biking, Great Hiking

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<p>Veneto is Italy with range—Gondolas in Venice, vino in Valdobbiadene and Shakespearean drama in Verona (minus the tragedy). Cycle through Prosecco hills, paddle Lake Garda and savour seafood straight from the Adriatic. With hands-on cooking, world-class art and 5-star trattoria-to-table vibes, Veneto delivers la dolce vita with a twist—and a spritz.</p>

Lake Garda, Prosecco, Venice and Verona—it all happens here 

Bike from Lake Garda to Venice on a custom Veneto itinerary. Private boat tours, winery visits and Italy's most celebrated northern region, built for you.

The Best Restaurants in Venice

By Georgia Yuill

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