Best restaurants in Venice for traditional food

From the minuscule local hideaways to the grandest dining halls, we’ve compiled a little list of some of our favourite Venice dining.
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Thronging with tourists and tourist-traps, Venice dining can be a daunting experience. Which is why we’ve gone out to select five of our top restaurants in town to get you that scrumptious taste of Venice you’ve been waiting for.

Alle Testiere

This minuscule osteria perfectly encapsulates the energy and vitality of Venice. Brimming with warmth and beautiful detailing, it is the scrumptious dishes that make these few tables some of the most sought after in Venice.

A favourite among locals and the few tourists who manage to book a table at this tiny location near the Rialto Bridge for its delectable and surprising takes on traditional Venetian seafood and Luca’s, the sommelier’s, carefully chosen wines.

Insider tip: book a table for the later sitting for a more relaxed dining experience.

Visit Website - Alle Testiere

Venissa

Escape the frenetic energy of Venice at this stunning restaurant located amongst the charming vineyards of Mazzorbo.

Take a vaporetto across the lagoon and discover, behind its walls, an oasis of tranquility and culinary delights. With an ever-changing menu created by chef Paola Budel from ingredients grown right there in the garden and the freshest local seafood, you’ll be spoiled for exquisite choice at this hidden gem of a restaurant.

Insider tip: The locally produced wine is a delight not to be missed.

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Antiche Carampane

From the moment you see its famous sign proclaiming ‘no lasagne, no pizza, no menu turistico,’ you know you’re in for something authentically Venetian.

True to this first impression, this trattoria serves up delectable local recipes based on the day’s local seafood procured from the renowned Rialto fishmarket just a few blocks away. Located in the heart of old Venice, this restaurant perfectly captures that heart with its eclectic charm and familial warmth.

Insider tip: the service is extremely well-informed and a recommendation from them is sure to be truly delicious.

Visit Website - Antiche Carampane

I Figli delle Stelle

For a meal with a view, nothing beats I Figli delle Stelle. Heart-stopping sunset views of St. Mark’s Square and Basilica across the Giudecca draw the immediate attention from the canal-side terrace, but the expertly-crafted fare is well-worth staying for.

Three chefs coming together from Venice, Rome, and Bari give you the delightful scope of Italian cuisine. Inside, the atmosphere is relaxed, with large sofas perfect for a comfortable aperitivo and live music on occasion.

Insider tip: This is the perfect place for those with dietary restrictions—the vegan dishes and gluten-free pastas are delectable.

Visit Website - I Figli delle Stelle

de Pisis at BAUERs Hotel

Among the most elegant restaurants in town, de Pisis offers a truly romantic and unforgettable dining experience.

Helmed by the expert Japanese chef, Hiraki Masakazu, traditional Venetian dishes sizzle with an appetizing new flare. True Venetian sumptuousness envelopes the intimate and historic dining room, while the exquisitely proportioned terrace offers diners spectacular views of the Grand Canal.

Insider tip: don’t forget dessert, where the extraordinary tiramisu with sate any sweet tooth.

Visit Website - de Pisis restaurantVisit Website - BAUERs l'Hotel

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