Top 4 Places to Eat in Venice

Charming canal scene in Venice with a gondola navigating under bridges.
Helena Jankovičová Kováčová, Pexels

Venice's culinary landscape offers a rich tapestry of flavors, from traditional small bites perfect for a quick stop to refined fine dining experiences, often featuring the fresh bounty of the lagoon.

1. Cantina Do Spade

Cuisine: Traditional Venetian Cicchetti and Local Dishes

Stepping into this historic bacaro, established in the 15th century, visitors immerse themselves in an authentic local atmosphere. It is the ideal place to sample cicchetti, Venice's answer to tapas, with a wide selection of small plates ranging from meatballs to marinated sardines. A full dining room is also available for those seeking a more substantial meal, complementing these bites with a small glass of local wine, known as an 'ombra'.

Price: Cicchetti: €1.50–€3 per piece; Aperol Spritz: around €1.50

Getting There: Located in the San Polo neighborhood, a short walk from the Rialto Bridge.

2. Dal Moro's Fresh Pasta To Go

Cuisine: Fresh Pasta To Go

For a quick and satisfying meal, Dal Moro's offers freshly made pasta with a choice of sauces. This establishment is known for its generous portions, providing a convenient and delicious option for those exploring the city. It is a popular spot, often attracting a queue for its quality and affordability.

Price: €5–€9 per portion

Getting There: Found in Castello, on Calle De La Casseleria 5324, easily accessible on foot from many central areas.

3. Osteria Alle Testiere

Cuisine: Refined Seafood and Seasonal Venetian Cuisine

This intimate osteria presents a refined dining experience with a strong focus on fresh, seasonal seafood sourced daily from the Rialto Fish Market. The menu changes regularly to reflect the best available ingredients, offering dishes with unique and subtle flavor combinations. Reservations are highly recommended due to its small size and popularity.

Price: Estimated €60–€80 per person for a full meal (excluding drinks)

Getting There: Nestled in Castello, at Calle del Mondo Novo 5801, reachable by walking through the charming streets.

4. Glam by Enrico Bartolini

Cuisine: Creative Michelin-Starred Venetian Cuisine

Awarded two Michelin stars, Glam offers an exquisite fine dining experience within the elegant Palazzo Venart. The restaurant features creative Venetian cuisine, with tasting menus that highlight the local lagoon's produce and organic vegetables. Dining outdoors under ancient magnolia trees provides a memorable atmosphere, complemented by artistically presented dishes.

Price: Tasting menu: around €220 per person

Getting There: Situated inside the Palazzo Venart hotel in San Polo, within comfortable walking distance from significant landmarks.