7 Best Food Places in Venice Where You Can Eat Like a Local

Chariza Leen Crudo

Last updated 24 Feb 2026

Outdoor seating at a traditional Venice trattoria along a narrow canal

Cozy Venetian trattoria tucked along a charming canal alley | Photo from Jorge Franganillo on Wikimedia

Venice is a feast for the senses

Venice isn’t just about gondolas, canals, and dreamy sunsets. It’s also a city where every bite tells a story. From fresh seafood caught in the lagoon to creamy risottos and buttery pastries, the best food places in Venice serve up flavors you’ll remember long after your trip ends.

Craving the best pasta in Venice? Dreaming about starting your day with the best breakfast in Venice? Or maybe you’re ready to try the iconic dishes that truly define food in Venice, Italy? You’re in the right place! This guide is here to help you eat boldly, choose confidently, and make every single bite count on your Venetian adventure. 🍝

1. Cantina Aziende Agricole

📍 Address: Cannaregio, 3689, 30121 Venezia VE, Italy

Must-order dishes:

Baccalà mantecato (creamy whipped salt cod on bread)
Prosciutto and truffle crostini
Fried mozzarella balls

If you want to eat like a true Venetian, start here. Cantina Aziende Agricole is famous for its cicchetti (small bites served on bread), topped with everything from creamy baccalà (salt cod) to prosciutto and fresh veggies. It’s the perfect place to sample different flavors without committing to just one dish.

This spot easily ranks among the best food places in Venice because it offers authentic flavors at fair prices. And with a glass of local wine in hand, you’ll feel like a real Venetian.

Klook Tip: Join a guided bacaro tour so you can hop between multiple spots and try even more cicchetti without the guesswork.

2. Trattoria Al Gatto Nero

📍 Address: Via Giudecca, 88, 30142 Burano VE, Italy

Must-order dishes:

Risotto di gò (Venetian lagoon fish risotto)
Spaghetti alle vongole
Grilled Adriatic fish of the day

Located on the colorful island of Burano, this trattoria is worth the boat ride. Al Gatto Nero is known for ultra-fresh seafood and traditional Venetian recipes. The flavors here are clean and simple, letting the ingredients shine.

Want to combine your meal with sightseeing? Pair your lunch here with the Murano and Burano island tour. You’ll explore Murano’s famous glassmaking tradition, wander through Burano’s rainbow-colored streets, and then sit down for a well-earned seafood feast.

3. Osteria alle Testiere

📍 Address: Calle del Mondo Novo, 5801, 30122 Venezia VE, Italy

Must-order dishes:

Spaghetti with spider crab
Grilled scallops
Fresh catch of the day

Osteria alle Testiere is one of the best restaurants in Venice for a special dinner. With only a few tables, it feels cozy and exclusive. The menu changes daily based on what’s fresh at the market.

Expect creative seafood dishes and perfectly cooked pasta. This is where you go when you want something refined but not too fancy.

And if you really want to level up your evening, go on a wine tasting experience in Venice. You’ll learn about regional wines, taste different varieties, and walk into dinner already knowing which Venetian white or bold Italian red you love most.

4. Trattoria Da Romano

📍 Address: Via Baldassarre Galuppi, 221, 30142 Burano VE, Italy

Must-order dishes:

Risotto di gò
Fried soft-shell crab (moeche, seasonal)
Seafood antipasto platter

Also located in Burano, Da Romano is famous for its risotto di gò (a local fish risotto) that’s creamy, rich, and flavorful. The restaurant walls are covered in artwork, adding character to your meal.

This is a place where tradition matters. Recipes have been passed down for generations, and that’s why it’s considered one of the best restaurants in Venice and beyond.

5. Hard Rock Cafe Venice

📍 Address: Bacino Orseolo, 1192, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy

Must-order dishes:

Legendary Original Burger
BBQ ribs
Classic margarita

Sometimes you want something familiar. Hard Rock Cafe Venice offers classic American favorites right near St. Mark’s Square. Burgers, ribs, and cocktails are all on the menu.

It may not be traditional Venetian cuisine, but it’s a fun option, especially for families. The music, memorabilia, and lively vibe make it a great break from sightseeing.

6. Antiche Carampane

📍 Address: Rio Terà de le Carampane, 1911, 30125 Venezia VE, Italy

Must-order dishes:

Bigoli in salsa (thick pasta with anchovy sauce)
Mixed fried seafood
Seafood risotto

Antiche Carampane is a trattoria located away from the busy tourist spots. It’s known for traditional Venetian seafood dishes made with care.

Locals love it, and that’s always a good sign. The menu highlights seasonal ingredients and classic recipes. If you want to dive deeper into authentic food in Venice, Italy, this is a must-visit.

Klook Tip: This spot is located in Venice’s maze-like alleyways, so make sure your maps are working before you head out. Stay connected with the 5G Italy Unlimited Data eSIM so you can navigate confidently, avoid getting lost, and focus on the food, not the directions. 📱✨

7. Pasticceria Tonolo

📍 Address: Calle San Pantalon, 3764, 30123 Venezia VE, Italy

Must-order dishes:

Tiramisu
Cannoli
Seasonal fruit tart

No food guide is complete without dessert. Pasticceria Tonolo is famous for pastries like tiramisu and cannoli. Everything looks beautiful in the display case, and it tastes even better. This is where you satisfy your sweet tooth after dinner. It’s also a great stop for an afternoon treat.

FAQs about the best food places in Venice

What is a must-eat in Venice?

A must-eat in Venice is seafood risotto or spaghetti alle vongole. Venice is surrounded by water, so fresh seafood is everywhere. You should also try cicchetti, which are small snacks served in local wine bars. They’re fun, affordable, and let you taste different flavors in one evening.

Where to go to dinner in Venice?

For dinner, choose a cozy trattoria like Osteria alle Testiere or Antiche Carampane. These spots serve authentic dishes in a relaxed setting. If you want something lively and casual, hop between bacari for cicchetti and wine. Dinner in Venice is meant to be slow, social, and full of flavor.

What are the rules for eating in Venice?

There aren’t strict rules, but there are some customs. Tipping isn’t required, but rounding up the bill is appreciated. Most importantly, take your time since meals are meant to be enjoyed, not rushed.

What food is a must-try in Venice?

You must try cicchetti, seafood risotto, fresh pasta, and tiramisu. These dishes reflect the heart of Venetian cooking. Each bite highlights local ingredients and simple techniques. If you’re exploring the best food places in Venice, make sure these classics are on your plate.

Taste your way through Venice

Venice is also a foodie’s dream, aside from being. From cozy cafés serving the best breakfast in Venice to elegant trattorias offering the best pasta in Venice, every meal becomes a memory.

Ready to plan your foodie adventure? Book a bacaro tour, reserve a wine tasting, and explore every corner with confidence. Dine in the best food places in Venice and let your taste buds lead the way.