10 Best Restaurants In Venice,Italy

Written by Joeri Van Overloop

When it comes to culinary experiences, Venice is a city that never lets you down. With its rich history and diverse culture, it's no surprise that the city is home to some of the best restaurants in the world. Whether you're a foodie like me looking for a unique dining experience near the Rialto bridge or San Polo Neighborhood, or you are simply looking for a delicious meal overlooking the Grand Canal, Venice will not disappoint.

After extensive research and personal experience, I've compiled a list of the best restaurants in Venice. From traditional Italian food to modern fusion dishes, these Venetian restaurants offer a variety of options for all tastes and preferences. Whether you're in the mood for seafood like spider crab or cuttlefish, pasta, or Venice pizza, you can find it all in Venice. So, grab a glass of wine and let's dive into the culinary delights of this beautiful city.

1. Il Ridotto

If you're looking for a fine dining experience during your stay in Venice, Restaurant Il Ridotto is a must-visit. This Michelin star restaurant is located in the Castello district of Venice and offers an intimate dining experience with only nine tables.

Il Ridotto specializes in typical Venetian food, with a focus on fresh fish and seasonal ingredients. The tasting menu changes frequently to reflect the freshest ingredients available. The restaurant also has an great bar, with a selection of over 500 wines from around the world.

One of the standout dishes at Il Ridotto is the spaghetti with clams, which is a classic Venetian dish. The pasta is perfectly cooked and the clams are fresh and flavorful. If you're a meat lover, we recommend trying the beef fillet with foie gras and truffle sauce, which is a decadent and delicious dish.

The atmosphere at Il Ridotto is elegant and sophisticated, with white tablecloths and soft lighting. The service is impeccable, with waiters and bartenders who are happy to make recommendations and answer any questions you may have.

Contact:

Address: Campiello, Campo Santi Filippo e Giacomo, 4509, 30122 Venezia VE, Italy

Phone: +39 041 520 8280

2. Ristorante Quadri

We had the pleasure of dining at the Quadri during our recent trip to Venice, and it was truly one of the best restaurants in the city of Venice. Located in the heart of St Mark's Square (Piazza San Marco), the restaurant boasts magnificent views of the square and the iconic St Mark's Basilica (Basilica di San Marco).

As we entered the restaurant, we were immediately struck by the elegant and refined atmosphere. The décor is classic and sophisticated, with ornate wallpaper adorned with portraits of the owners. The service was impeccable, with the staff attending to our every need.

The food at Restaurant Quadri is a masterpiece of Venetian cuisine, with a modern twist. The menu features a range of dishes, from seafood to meat, all prepared with the freshest ingredients. We highly recommend the seafood dishes, which were particularly outstanding. The desserts were also a highlight, with the tiramisu being a must-try.

In addition to the exceptional food, the Quadri also has an amazing wine bar, with an extensive selection of wines from Italy and around the world. The staff is knowledgeable and happy to make recommendations to pair with your meal.

And with its prime location on the Canal Grande, it is the perfect place to enjoy a meal while taking in the beauty of Venice.

Contact:

Address: P.za San Marco, 123, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy

Phone: +39 041 522 2105

3. Osteria Anice Stellato

I had the pleasure of dining at Osteria Anice Stellato during my visit to Venice, and I must say, it was a great experience. Located in the charming neighborhood of Cannaregio, this local osteria offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere that makes you feel right at home.

The menu at Anice Stellato is a mix of traditional Venetian dishes and creative twists on Italian classics. We particularly enjoyed the seafood options, such as the scampi in saor and the red snapper, which were cooked to perfection and paired beautifully with the restaurant's extensive wine list.

For those who prefer vegetarian options, the restaurant offers a variety of delicious choices, including the gazpacho and the bib Gourmand, a dish made with a variety of vegetables and grains.

In addition to the main menu, Restaurant Anice Stellato also offers a selection of cicchetti, small plates that are perfect for sharing and trying a variety of flavors. I highly recommend trying the zabaglione ice cream, a local specialty that is simply divine.

The wine bar is also worth mentioning, as it offers a wide selection of local and Italian wines that perfectly complement the flavors of the dishes. The staff is knowledgeable and happy to recommend a pairing based on your preferences.

Contact:

Address: Fondamenta de la Sensa, 3272, 30121 Venezia VE, Italy

Phone: +39 041 720744

4. La Zucca

When it comes to finding a restaurant that offers delicious vegetarian dishes in Venice, Restaurant La Zucca is the place to be. This charming restaurant is located in the Santa Croce district, close to the San Giacomo square, and offers an extensive menu of authentic Venetian cuisine.

At La Zucca, we were impressed with the use of fresh ingredients in their dishes. The restaurant prides itself on using locally sourced produce to create their dishes. We particularly enjoyed their pasta dishes, which were cooked to perfection and packed with flavor.

The desserts at Restaurant La Zucca are also not to be missed. We highly recommend trying their famous pumpkin flan, which is a unique and delicious twist on a classic Italian dessert.

One of the best things about this place is its location. The restaurant is situated on a small canal, which provides a beautiful view while enjoying your meal. The cozy atmosphere of the restaurant makes it a perfect place for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.

Contact:

Address: Sestiere Santa Croce 1762, 30135 Venezia VE, Italy

Phone: +39 041 524 1570

5. Al Covo

When it comes to the best restaurants in Venice to enjoy lunch or dinner, Al Covo is definitely a must-visit. This restaurant is located in the Cannaregio district, which is known for its local and traditional Venetian delicacies. Al Covo offers a unique dining experience that combines the freshest seafood with local ingredients, all while providing a cozy and intimate atmosphere.

At Ristorante Al Covo, we were impressed by the focus on using only the freshest and highest quality ingredients, which are sourced from the nearby lagoon of Venice. The seafood is especially noteworthy, as it is caught daily and prepared to perfection. We also appreciated the bar, which offers an extensive selection of wines that perfectly complement the dishes.

The menu at Al Covo is inspired by the slow food movement, which emphasizes the use of locally sourced and sustainable ingredients. The chefs here highlight the flavors and textures of the local produce and seafood, creating dishes that are both simple and elegant. We particularly enjoyed the spaghetti with clams, which was perfectly cooked and seasoned.

The atmosphere at Al Covo is rustic yet elegant, with cozy lighting and intimate seating arrangements. The service is attentive and knowledgeable, and the staff is happy to provide recommendations on both food and wine. We recommend making a reservation in advance, as the restaurant is quite popular and tends to fill up quickly.

Contact:

Address: Campiello de la Pescaria, 3968, 30122 Venezia VE, Italy

Phone: +39 041 522 3812

6. Osteria Enoteca Ai Artisti

When it comes to finding the best Venice restaurants to eat in the city, Osteria Enoteca Ai Artisti is one of the best places to eat in Venice. Located in the Dorsoduro neighborhood, home to many of the best Venice museums, this local gem offers a cozy atmosphere and exceptional Italian cuisine.

As the name suggests, Osteria Enoteca Ai Artisti is both an osteria and an enoteca, meaning that it serves both food and wine. The wine selection is extensive and carefully curated, with options ranging from local Italian wines to international varieties.

The menu at Ai Artisti features a variety of seafood dishes, as well as other Italian classics. The chefs use only the freshest ingredients, and the quality of the food is evident in every bite.

The restaurant's location on a quiet canal in the Cannaregio district adds to its charm and makes it a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Venice's crowded streets. The intimate atmosphere and attentive service make it an ideal spot for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.

Whether you're looking for a great local Venice wine bar or exceptional sea food, this restaurant is sure to impress.

Contact:

Address: Fondamenta Toletta, 1169/abc, 30123 Venezia VE, Italy

Phone: +39 041 523 8944

7. Trattoria al Gatto Nero

When in search for seafood on your Venice food tour, Trattoria al Gatto Nero is a must-visit Venetian restaurant. Located in the Cannaregio district, this family-run trattoria has been serving locals and tourists since 1946.

We were impressed by the generous portions of fresh seafood, especially the clams and scallops. The restaurant is known for its lagoon-fresh seafood and homemade pasta, and it did not disappoint. The menu is simple, but everything is cooked to perfection.

The blue facade of al Gatto Nero is a landmark in the colorful Burano area. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make you feel like you're dining at a local's home. Although it's a popular spot, the restaurant never feels overcrowded or rushed.

The wine list is predictable, but it has a good selection of local wines that pair well with the seafood. We recommend trying the house wine, which is surprisingly good.

This is a great restaurant for those who want to experience local Venetian dishes. The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous. We highly recommend making a reservation as the restaurant can get busy.

Contact:

Address: Via Giudecca, 88, 30142 Venezia VE, Italy

Phone: +39 041 730120

8. Ai Mercanti

We highly recommend visiting Restaurant Ai Mercanti in Venice for lunch and dinner. This fine dining establishment offers Venetian delicacies with a modern twist, and the menu features a variety of meat and seafood dishes.

The restaurant has a sleek and modern decor, dominated by beige and black tones, and is situated in a small courtyard in the center of Venice. The atmosphere is intimate and cozy, making it a great spot for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.

In addition to the delicious food, Ai Mercanti also has an impressive bar with a wide selection of wines to pair with your meal. The knowledgeable waiters can help you choose the perfect wine to complement your dish.

Located in the Dorsoduro neighborhood, Ai Mercanti is a bit off the beaten path, but it is definitely worth the trip. The restaurant is family-run, and the service is attentive and friendly.

Contact:

Address: Corte Coppo, 4346/a, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy

Phone: +39 041 523 8269

9. La Favorita

If you're looking for a traditional Venetian restaurant with a focus on seafood, Restaurant La Favorita is the place to visit. Located on the island of Lido, this family-run restaurant has been serving up local cuisine for generations.

The menu at La Favorita is predominantly seafood-based, with dishes such as spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams), fritto misto di mare (mixed fried seafood), and baccalà mantecato (creamed cod) being popular choices amongst locals and tourists.

One of the standout features of La Favorita is their extensive wine list, which includes a range of local and international wines. The restaurant also has a wine bar, where you can enjoy a glass of wine or a cocktail before or after your meal.

The atmosphere at La Favorita is warm and welcoming, with a cozy interior that feels like a home away from home. During the summer months, you can also choose to sit outside on the terrace and enjoy views of the Giudecca canal.

Contact:

Address: Via Francesco Duodo, 33, 30126 Venezia VE, Italy

Phone: +39 041 526 1626

10. Ristorante Glam

If you are looking for a traditional Venetian dining experience, look no further than Ristorante Glam. Located in the Dorsoduro neighborhood, this restaurant offers a contemporary take on Venetian food by chef Enrico Bartolini and resident chef Donato Ascani.

At the Glam restaurant, the focus is on using fresh, local ingredients to create innovative dishes that showcase the flavors of Venice. The seafood here is especially noteworthy, with dishes like the octopus carpaccio and the risotto with scampi and zucchini flowers being particularly popular.

In addition to the food, the Glam restaurant also boasts an impressive bar, with a wide selection of Italian wines to choose from. Whether you are a wine connoisseur or just looking for a great glass to pair with your meal, the knowledgeable staff here can help you find the perfect bottle.

The combination of delicious food, great wine, and a chic atmosphere make it a great place to visit for any foodie traveling to Venice city.

Contact:

Address: Calle Tron, 1961, 30135 Venezia VE, Italy

Phone: +39 041 523 5676