Venice, a city built on water, boasts a culinary scene as rich and captivating as its canals. Shaped by its unique geography and history as a maritime power, Venetian cuisine is a delightful fusion of Italian heartiness and exotic Eastern influences.
Fresh seafood, of course, reigns supreme, while flavoursome spices, creamy polenta, and delicate risottos speak to the city’s trading past and the fertile plains of the Veneto region. Prepare to be surprised by the unique character of Venetian food, where sweet and savoury dance together in dishes like the iconic sarde in saor. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey through the charming calli (streets) and savour the true taste of Venice.
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Must try dishes in Venice: A taste of the lagoon
Venetian food is all about embracing the freshest seasonal ingredients, often with a focus on seafood from the lagoon. The city’s history as a major trading port is also reflected in its cuisine, with influences from the East adding an intriguing twist to traditional Italian flavours. From delicate cicchetti (Venetian tapas) to hearty seafood risottos, the local gastronomy offers a delightful exploration for every palate. Be sure to sample the catch of the day, savour the creamy texture of polenta, and indulge in the sweet surprise of Venetian biscuits.
1. Sarde in Saor
Sarde in saor, meaning “sardines in flavour,” is a true Venetian classic. This agrodolce (sweet and sour) dish features fried sardines marinated in a flavourful sauce of onions, vinegar, raisins, and pine nuts. Its origins date back to the city’s seafaring past, as the preserving qualities of the marinade allowed sailors to enjoy fish on long voyages.
Where to try it: Trattoria Alla Madonna, a traditional Venetian bàcaro (tavern) known for its authentic sarde in saor.
Foodie tip: For a true taste of Venice, pair your sarde in saor with a glass of local prosecco or a chilled glass of white wine from the Veneto region.
2. Bigoli in Salsa
Bigoli in salsa is a must-try for pasta lovers. This dish features thick, whole-wheat bigoli pasta, traditionally made with duck eggs, served with a rich sauce of slow-cooked onions and salty anchovies. The simplicity of the ingredients belies the depth of flavour in this Venetian staple.
Where to try it: Cantina Do Mori, one of the oldest bàcari in Venice, renowned for its traditional bigoli in salsa.
Foodie tip: Don’t be afraid to ask for a spoon to scoop up every last drop of the flavourful sauce.
3. Fegato alla Veneziana
Fegato alla Veneziana, or Venetian-style liver and onions, is a true Venetian classic. This dish features thinly sliced calves’ liver, cooked to perfection with sweet onions and often finished with a splash of white wine or vinegar. While it might not be for everyone, this rich and savoury dish is a testament to the Venetian love for bold flavours.
Where to try it: Ristorante Riviera, offering a refined take on this Venetian classic in an elegant setting.
Foodie tip: For a truly authentic experience, order a side of creamy polenta to accompany your fegato alla Veneziana.
4. Risotto al Nero di Seppia
Risotto al nero di seppia, or cuttlefish ink risotto, is a visually striking and flavourful dish. The creamy risotto gets its distinctive black colour and savoury depth from the ink of the cuttlefish, which is also cooked into the dish along with white wine, onions, and garlic.
Where to try it: Trattoria al Gatto Nero, a beloved seafood restaurant on the island of Burano, known for its exceptional risotto al nero di seppia.
Foodie tip: Don’t be surprised by the black colour – it’s all part of the unique flavour experience!
5. Fritole
Fritole, Venetian-style fritters, are a sweet treat enjoyed year-round but especially popular during Carnival. These small, bite-sized doughnuts are traditionally made with raisins and pine nuts, deep-fried to golden perfection, and dusted with powdered sugar.
Where to try it: Pasticceria Tonolo, a historic pastry shop in the Dorsoduro district, famous for its traditional fritole.
Foodie tip: Enjoy your fritole with a cup of strong Italian espresso or a glass of dessert wine.
Where to eat in Venice: Best restaurants in town
Here are a few highly-rated restaurants in Venice based on Google reviews:
- Trattoria Alla Madonna: Traditional Venetian bàcaro with a wide selection of cicchetti and classic dishes like sarde in saor.
- Cantina Do Mori: One of the oldest bàcari in Venice, known for its authentic bigoli in salsa and lively atmosphere.
- Ristorante Riviera: Elegant restaurant serving refined Venetian cuisine, including a delicious fegato alla Veneziana.
- Trattoria al Gatto Nero (Burano): Beloved seafood restaurant on the island of Burano, famous for its exceptional risotto al nero di seppia.
- Pasticceria Tonolo: Historic pastry shop in the Dorsoduro district, renowned for its traditional fritole and other Venetian sweets.
Book your flight to Venice with Opodo
Ready to embark on a culinary adventure through the enchanting canals of Venice? Book your flight with Opodo today and let us help you discover the best fares and travel options to this captivating city. Start planning your Venetian escape and get ready to savour the unforgettable flavours of this unique destination!
