Venice is the romantic capital of Europe, known for its unique structure and layout. Built on 118 islands, connected by 400 bridges, with no roads and only canals to navigate, Venice is a city of waterways. Iconic gondolas meander down the still waterways as the artistic and historic buildings sit elegantly alongside the lagoons.
A stop at Venice on a Mediterranean cruise will be one to remember, with the local cuisine often being a highlight of the destination, as beloved Venetian dishes blend seamlessly with sweet treats and hand-crafted cocktails.
In this article, we take a deeper look at some of the best places to indulge in the Venice food scene and amidst a day of exploring and making memories. Keep reading to find out which locations we recommend you put on your must-visit list when you’re next in this Italian city.
The Best Restaurants in Venice:
- Osteria Al Squero
- Maison De La Crepe
- Farini
- Antiche Carampane
- Gio’s Restaurant & Terrace
Osteria Al Squero
A charming restaurant located in front of the Ancient Squero of San Trovaso, Osteria Al Squero is known for its cosy outdoor seating along the canal, refreshing spritz cocktails, and authentic cicchetti – small plates similar to Spanish tapas.
The menu is packed with classic cicchetti options such as topped breads and small pastries, and there are plenty of great vegetarian options. Treat yourself to a sun-soaked seat on the terrace, an ice-cold spritz and a deliciously fresh selection of small plates.
Maison De La Crêpe
Located near Rialto Bridge and Fondaco dei Tedeschi, Le Maison De La Crepe specialises in delectably sweet gelato, crêpes and cannoli. Feast your eyes as you watch these tantalising creations made by talented crêpe masters. Offering take-out only, you can enjoy your treat out and about whilst taking in the breathtaking sights the city has to offer.
Whether you’re a lover of super sweet or you’re looking for something a little lighter, there are plenty of options to choose from. Hazelnut, whipped cream, banana, caramel, blueberries and much more can be added to these indulgent crêpes.
: Farini
With four locations across Venice, Farini is a firm favourite with locals and visitors alike. Following the closure of a former bakery in the exact location, Farini reopened its doors and continued the baking tradition.
Serving fresh food all day, we offer a variety of dishes, including fresh pastries, pizza, salads, and brunch items. Pair your dish with one of the many Italian wines on offer and sip it whilst enjoying the laid-back and ambient atmosphere.
The blog Bubbly Living spoke about their experience of Farini on their website: “One of the things I loved about Farini is its laid-back ambience, with locals and travellers alike stopping by for a slice of pizza, a strong cappuccino, or an Aperol Spritz to unwind after a day of exploring Venice.”
Antiche Carampane
A historic restaurant hidden in the narrow back streets between Rialto Fish Market and Campo San Polo, Antiche Carampane offers fine dining rooted in authentic Venetian cuisine. The restaurant attracts locals and visitors, all looking to enjoy fresh and fragrant seafood with a modern twist – each morning, their ingredients are bought at the nearby market, and their menu focuses on seasonal offerings from the Venetian lagoon.
Pair your fresh dish with one of the many regional wines from the restaurant’s well-stocked cellar. Many of the wines are produced using organic ingredients and are crafted by small, local producers.
Gio’s Restaurant & Terrace
With a tag line of ‘a culinary journey from Puglia to Veneto’, Gio’s Restaurant & Terrace brings the fresh flavours of Italy alive. Located on San Giorgio Island, the restaurant pays homage to the stunning area, which lies just across the canal and is renowned far and wide for its breathtaking views and rich history.
The head chef was born in Puglia and has a wealth of knowledge, allowing him to expertly combine the robust flavours of Puglia with the refined taste of Veneto. Often called one of the best restaurants in Venice, it is a must-visit when you’re in the city.
Frequently asked questions about food hot spots in Venice
What are the must-try Venetian dishes?
Venice is a city with so many delicious dishes that you should try if you’re planning to visit the city. Some of the most popular dishes include Sarde in Saor, which is a dish made up of fried sardines flavoured with sweet and sour flavours. Bigoli is also a popular choice when visiting Venice, it is a traditional Venetian pasta dish made with wholewheat bigoli pasta and served with salt-cured fish.
What are cicchetti, and where do I get them?
Cicchetti are small appetisers or starters that are often served first when visiting a bar or informal restaurant, similar to Spanish tapas. They can be served hot or cold, accompanied by toppings such as egg, anchovies, crab, and even salami and cheese.
Are there vegetarian or vegan options in Venetian cuisine?
Vegetarian and vegan dishes are readily available in Venetian cuisine, and many popular meat-based dishes can be easily substituted with vegetables.
How expensive is eating out in Venice?
Eating out in Venice can vary in price and can be tailored depending on your budget. There are excellent budget options, as well as some pricier and Michelin-starred restaurants that fall within the higher price range.
If you’ve booked a European cruise that stops in Venice, this guide should provide you with some insights into the delectable treats and dishes you can enjoy while you’re there. For more great destinations and offers, make sure you explore our cruise deals and find your perfect itinerary.
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