Venice is a city known for its breathtaking canals, historic architecture, and vibrant art scene, but one of the lesser-celebrated aspects of this magical city is its rich culinary heritage. Venetian cuisine, shaped by centuries of maritime trade and local traditions, offers a distinct and flavorful experience that is unlike anything I’ve encountered in Italy. On my recent trip to Venice, I made it my mission to try some of the city’s most authentic dishes and dine at local restaurants that truly capture the essence of Venetian cooking.
In this blog, I’ll take you through my food journey in Venice—where to eat, what to order, and why you can’t miss these signature dishes. From classic seafood risottos to indulgent sweets, I discovered that Venetian food is a reflection of the city’s history, its proximity to the sea, and its creative flair. So, grab a glass of wine and join me as I recount my flavorful adventure.
1. Cicchetti at Cantine del Vino già Schiavi: Venice’s Tapas Experience
One of my favorite aspects of Venetian dining is the tradition of cicchetti, small bite-sized snacks similar to Spanish tapas. These are usually enjoyed with a glass of wine, called ombra, at one of the local bacari (traditional Venetian wine bars). I kicked off my culinary journey with a stop at Cantine del Vino già Schiavi, a tiny bacaro located just off the Dorsoduro canal.
What I Ordered:
The bar was filled with locals, chatting and nibbling on a variety of cicchetti spread across the counter. I tried a selection that included baccalà mantecato (creamed cod), sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines), and polenta with shrimp. Each bite was an explosion of flavor—salty, sweet, tangy, and umami all at once. The baccalà was smooth and rich, perfectly complemented by the crunchy crostini it was served on. The sarde in saor, a traditional dish of marinated sardines with onions, vinegar, and raisins, was a revelation of how sweet and savory can work so well together.
The Experience:
Cantine del Vino già Schiavi has an authentic, no-frills vibe. Locals stood shoulder to shoulder at the bar, sipping their ombra and catching up on the day’s events. This is the kind of place where you feel like a Venetian, even if just for a moment. The cicchetti are reasonably priced, ranging from €1.50 to €3 per piece, making it a budget-friendly way to taste a variety of dishes.
Recommendation:
If you’re new to Venetian cuisine, cicchetti is the perfect way to sample several traditional flavors without committing to a full meal. I highly recommend pairing your cicchetti with a glass of Prosecco or Spritz, a Venetian classic. Cantine del Vino già Schiavi is a must-visit for its authentic atmosphere and delicious bites. I give it a 10/10 for its food and charm.
2. Risotto al Nero di Seppia at Trattoria alla Madonna
Venice is known for its seafood, and one dish that truly stands out is Risotto al Nero di Seppia—black squid ink risotto. I had heard a lot about this dish before arriving in Venice, so I made it a priority to try it at Trattoria alla Madonna, a traditional restaurant just a short walk from the Rialto Bridge.
What I Ordered:
As I sat down, I knew immediately what I was going to order: the famous black squid ink risotto. When the dish arrived, it was even more striking than I had imagined—a deep, inky black mound of creamy risotto, topped with tender pieces of squid. The squid ink gave the risotto a rich, briny flavor that was unlike anything I had tasted before. It had an almost buttery texture, with just the right amount of saltiness to balance the sweetness of the seafood.
The Experience:
The restaurant itself exudes old-world charm, with its white tablecloths and waiters in crisp uniforms. Despite its popularity with tourists, Trattoria alla Madonna retains a local feel. The portions were generous, and the service was impeccable. The risotto, priced at €20, was well worth the cost for such an indulgent and unique dish.
Recommendation:
If you’re a fan of seafood and looking for something truly Venetian, Risotto al Nero di Seppia is a must-try. I would suggest pairing it with a crisp white wine like Soave or Pinot Grigio to complement the dish’s bold flavors. Trattoria alla Madonna is an excellent spot for traditional Venetian fare, and I would rate it 9/10 for its authentic food and welcoming atmosphere.
3. Bigoli in Salsa at Osteria Al Portego
Another classic Venetian dish that I couldn’t wait to try was Bigoli in Salsa, a simple but flavorful pasta dish made with whole wheat bigoli noodles and a sauce of anchovies and onions. I found a great place to enjoy this dish at Osteria Al Portego, a small, unpretentious osteria tucked away in a narrow alley near the Campo San Lio.
What I Ordered:
The Bigoli in Salsa arrived in a modest bowl, but its simplicity was deceptive. The thick, chewy noodles were coated in a rich sauce made from slow-cooked onions and salty anchovies, creating a deeply savory flavor. The anchovies melted into the sauce, adding a subtle fishy taste without being overwhelming. It was hearty and satisfying, the kind of dish that makes you appreciate the beauty of simple ingredients done well.
The Experience:
Osteria Al Portego is a hidden gem, with a cozy and intimate atmosphere. The tables were packed with locals, which is always a good sign when dining in a city as tourist-heavy as Venice. The prices were very reasonable, with the Bigoli in Salsa costing around €12. The portion size was perfect for lunch, leaving me full but not overstuffed.
Recommendation:
If you’re looking for a traditional Venetian pasta dish that packs a punch of flavor, Bigoli in Salsa is the way to go. Osteria Al Portego is the ideal place to try it—affordable, authentic, and frequented by locals. I’d give this dish a solid 8/10 for its comforting, homey flavors and the osteria’s friendly vibe.
4. Fritto Misto at Ristorante Da Ivo
Venice’s connection to the sea is undeniable, and no meal in Venice is complete without trying Fritto Misto, a mixed fried seafood platter. I ventured to Ristorante Da Ivo, a well-known spot just a stone’s throw from St. Mark’s Square, to get my seafood fix.
What I Ordered:
The Fritto Misto platter was a feast for the senses. It included an array of seafood—calamari, shrimp, and small fish—perfectly battered and fried until crispy. Each piece of seafood was tender on the inside and crunchy on the outside, with a light, golden batter that wasn’t too greasy. The calamari, in particular, was a standout, with just the right amount of chewiness.
The Experience:
Da Ivo is a bit more upscale than some of the other places I dined at in Venice, with a sophisticated interior and impeccable service. The Fritto Misto, priced at €25, was on the higher end, but the quality of the seafood and the generous portion size made it worth it. The restaurant has a romantic ambiance, making it an ideal spot for a special dinner in Venice.
Recommendation:
For seafood lovers, Fritto Misto is an absolute must. I’d recommend sharing this dish with a friend or loved one, as the portion is quite large. Pair it with a glass of Prosecco for a light and refreshing contrast to the fried seafood. I’d rate Ristorante Da Ivo and its Fritto Misto 9/10 for its elegance and quality.
5. Tiramisu at I Tre Mercanti
No trip to Venice would be complete without indulging in some Tiramisu, and after much research, I found the perfect spot at I Tre Mercanti, a gourmet shop and bakery that is famous for its tiramisu. Located near Campo Santa Maria Formosa, this spot is a haven for dessert lovers.
What I Ordered:
I opted for the classic tiramisu, though I was tempted by their variety of flavors, including pistachio and chocolate. The tiramisu was light, fluffy, and perfectly balanced. The mascarpone cream was rich but not too heavy, and the coffee-soaked ladyfingers added just the right amount of bitterness to counter the sweetness. The dusting of cocoa on top was the final touch that made this dessert irresistible.
The Experience:
I Tre Mercanti has a chic, modern interior, and the staff was incredibly friendly. While they sell other gourmet items, the tiramisu is undoubtedly the star of the show. It’s reasonably priced at €4.50 per slice, and the portion was generous enough to satisfy my sweet tooth without being overwhelming.
Recommendation:
If you have a sweet tooth, you cannot leave Venice without trying tiramisu from I Tre Mercanti. It’s the perfect pick-me-up after a day of sightseeing. I’d give this dessert experience a 10/10 for its taste and the shop’s elegant atmosphere.
Venetian cuisine is a treasure trove of flavors, from the simple yet satisfying cicchetti to the indulgent Risotto al Nero di Seppia. My culinary adventure in Venice was a feast for the senses, and I discovered that the best way to truly understand a city is through its food. If you ever find yourself wandering the narrow streets and canals of Venice, make sure to take the time to enjoy these authentic Venetian dishes at the restaurants I’ve mentioned.
Venice may be a city known for its art and architecture, but its culinary traditions are just as worthy of exploration. Whether you’re sipping wine at a local bacaro or indulging in a creamy tiramisu, every meal in Venice is an opportunity to taste the history and culture of this incredible city.
