Venice Foodie Guide: Complete Culinary Experience
Explore the best restaurants, food tours, local cuisine, street food, and culinary experiences in Venice. Your complete guide to dining in Venice.
Welcome to the ultimate foodie guide for Venice! Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visiting gourmand, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best culinary experiences that Venice has to offer. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden street food gems, authentic local specialties to innovative fusion cuisine, we've curated the essential dining experiences that showcase Venice's vibrant food scene. Our carefully selected recommendations include insider tips, must-try dishes, and everything you need to eat your way through Venice like a true food lover.
Key Takeaways
- Venice offers diverse culinary experiences from fine dining to street food
- Local specialties and regional dishes are must-tries for authentic flavors
- Food tours and cooking classes provide immersive culinary experiences
- Reservations recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends
- Markets and food halls offer great variety and local atmosphere
Must-Try Restaurants
From hidden gems to acclaimed establishments, these restaurants showcase the best of local and international cuisine in Venice.
Rio Novo
Highly rated Seafood in Venice with 4.6 stars from 5311 reviews.
๐ Fondamenta, Calle de Ca' Bernardo, 30135 Venezia VE, Italy
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Seafood cuisine
La Piazza
Highly rated Restaurant in Venice with 4.7 stars from 21188 reviews.
๐ S. Marco, 615, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Hostaria Osottoosopra
Highly rated Restaurant in Venice with 4.8 stars from 6960 reviews.
๐ Santa Croce, 164, 30135 Venezia VE, Italy
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
La Lanterna Da Gas
Highly rated Restaurant in Venice with 4.7 stars from 2135 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
๐ Campiello Mosca, 22, 30135 Venezia VE, Italy
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Hostaria Sant'Aponal
Highly rated Restaurant in Venice with 4.7 stars from 4006 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
๐ Calle del Scaleter, 1251, 30125 Venezia VE, Italy
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
La Vacaria
Highly rated Restaurant in Venice with 4.9 stars from 883 reviews.
๐ Dorsoduro, 2245, 30123 Venezia VE, Italy
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธEstablished local favorite
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Osteria Al Squero
Highly rated Bar in Venice with 4.7 stars from 5238 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
๐ Dorsoduro, 943, 30123 Venezia VE, Italy
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธBudget-friendly prices
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Bar cuisine
Impronta Restaurant Venice
Highly rated Restaurant in Venice with 4.8 stars from 3891 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
๐ Sestiere Dorsoduro, 3815, 30123 Venezia VE, Italy
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Ai Mercanti
Highly rated Restaurant in Venice with 4.7 stars from 1318 reviews.
๐ Corte Coppo, 4346/a, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธUpscale dining experience
Al Grill
Highly rated Steakhouse in Venice with 4.8 stars from 3361 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
๐ Per S. Marco, 1659B, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Steakhouse cuisine
Ristorante Antica Mola
Highly rated Restaurant in Venice with 4.8 stars from 689 reviews.
๐ Fondamenta dei Ormesini, 2800, 30121 Venezia VE, Italy
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธEstablished local favorite
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
El Magazen
Highly rated Seafood in Venice with 4.8 stars from 946 reviews.
๐ Calle Larga Giacinto Gallina, 5402, 30121 Venezia VE, Italy
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธEstablished local favorite
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Seafood cuisine
Street Food & Food Markets
Authentic street food vendors, bustling food markets, and local favorites where you'll find the most flavorful and affordable bites in Venice.
Mercato di Rialto
Highly rated International in Venice with 4.6 stars from 2744 reviews.
๐ Calle Prima de la Donzella, 306, 30125 Venezia VE, Italy
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Despar Teatro Italia
Highly rated International in Venice with 4.5 stars from 4062 reviews.
๐ Cannaregio nn, Campiello de l'Anconeta, 1939-1952, 30121 Venezia VE, Italy
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
็พ้ฃ็พๅฎข่ถ ๅธ VENICE MARKET
Highly rated International in Venice with 4.5 stars from 93 reviews.
๐ Viale Stazione, 8/b, 30171 Venezia VE, Italy
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธWelcoming atmosphere
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Mercato Sacca Fisola
Highly rated International in Venice with 4 stars from 107 reviews.
๐ Calle del Vaporetto, 30133 Venezia VE, Italy
- ๐ฝ๏ธWell-reviewed establishment
- ๐ฝ๏ธEstablished local favorite
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Mestre Market
Highly rated International in Venice with 4.6 stars from 194 reviews.
๐ Via Piave, 37E, 30171 Venezia VE, Italy
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธEstablished local favorite
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
SMALL GROCERY SHOP
Highly rated International in Venice with 4.6 stars from 97 reviews.
๐ Calle Crosera, 3925, 30122 Venezia VE, Italy
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธWelcoming atmosphere
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Campo della Pescaria
Highly rated International in Venice with 4.5 stars from 172 reviews.
๐ Calle de la Donzella, 257, 30125 Venezia VE, Italy
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธEstablished local favorite
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Venice Market
Highly rated International in Venice with 4.6 stars from 44 reviews.
๐ Via Piave, 67, 30171 Venezia VE, Italy
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธWelcoming atmosphere
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Food Tours & Culinary Experiences
Guided food tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, and immersive culinary experiences led by local experts in Venice.
Eating Europe Food Tours Venice
Highly rated International in Venice with 5 stars from 981 reviews.
- โขBook in advance, especially during peak season
- โขArrive 10-15 minutes early
- โขWear comfortable walking shoes
- โขBring a camera for memorable moments
- โขAsk your guide for local recommendations
Food Tours of Venice - Food, Wine & Sightseeing in Venezia
Highly rated International in Venice with 5 stars from 20 reviews.
- โขBook in advance, especially during peak season
- โขArrive 10-15 minutes early
- โขWear comfortable walking shoes
- โขBring a camera for memorable moments
- โขAsk your guide for local recommendations
Streaty - Food & Wine Tours in Venice
Highly rated International in Venice with 4.9 stars from 147 reviews.
- โขBook in advance, especially during peak season
- โขArrive 10-15 minutes early
- โขWear comfortable walking shoes
- โขBring a camera for memorable moments
- โขAsk your guide for local recommendations
Venice Free Tours La Bussola
Highly rated International in Venice with 4.9 stars from 1329 reviews.
- โขBook in advance, especially during peak season
- โขArrive 10-15 minutes early
- โขWear comfortable walking shoes
- โขBring a camera for memorable moments
- โขAsk your guide for local recommendations
Venice Walking Tour
Highly rated International in Venice with 5 stars from 2261 reviews.
- โขBook in advance, especially during peak season
- โขArrive 10-15 minutes early
- โขWear comfortable walking shoes
- โขBring a camera for memorable moments
- โขAsk your guide for local recommendations
Secret Venice Tours
Highly rated International in Venice with 5 stars from 159 reviews.
- โขBook in advance, especially during peak season
- โขArrive 10-15 minutes early
- โขWear comfortable walking shoes
- โขBring a camera for memorable moments
- โขAsk your guide for local recommendations
Cafes & Bakeries
Artisanal coffee shops, charming cafes, and bakeries serving fresh pastries, breads, and sweet treats in Venice.
Dolce Vita Venezia
Highly rated Bar in Venice with 4.7 stars from 1315 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
๐ Sestiere Dorsoduro, 3956A, 30123 Venezia VE, Italy
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Bar cuisine
Brunch Cafe
Highly rated Restaurant in Venice with 4.6 stars from 3695 reviews.
๐ Calle de la Madoneta, 1457, 30125 Venezia VE, Italy
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Adagio
Highly rated Bar in Venice with 4.9 stars from 1226 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
๐ Calle Stretta Lipoli, 3027, 30125 Venezia VE, Italy
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Bar cuisine
FLUFFY BRUNCH
Highly rated Chinese in Venice with 4.6 stars from 1681 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
๐ C. del Cappeller, 1586, 30125 Venezia VE, Italy
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Chinese cuisine
Caffรจ del Doge
Highly rated Cafe in Venice with 4.3 stars from 1970 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
๐ Rialto, Calle dei Cinque, 609, 30125 Venezia VE, Italy
- ๐ฝ๏ธWell-reviewed establishment
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธBudget-friendly prices
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Cafe cuisine
Farini
Highly rated Pizza in Venice with 4.5 stars from 6760 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
๐ Calle Seconda de la Fava, 5602, 30122 Venezia VE, Italy
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Pizza cuisine
Hard Rock Cafe
Highly rated American in Venice with 4.5 stars from 11773 reviews.
๐ Bacino Orseolo , San Marco 1192, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธUpscale dining experience
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic American cuisine
Tango Bar Venezia
Highly rated Bar in Venice with 4.9 stars from 684 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
๐ Fondamenta Pigan, 283, 30135 Venezia VE, Italy
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธEstablished local favorite
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Bar cuisine
Local Specialties & Signature Dishes
Regional dishes, local delicacies, and signature foods you absolutely must try during your visit to Venice.
Signature Dish
A must-try Venice specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- โขAsk locals for their favorite spots to try this
- โขBest enjoyed fresh and in season
- โขDon't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- โขTry it at multiple places to compare
- โขPair with local beverages for the full experience
Local Delicacy
This beloved Venice dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- โขAsk locals for their favorite spots to try this
- โขBest enjoyed fresh and in season
- โขDon't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- โขTry it at multiple places to compare
- โขPair with local beverages for the full experience
Traditional Recipe
Experience the authentic taste of Venice with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- โขAsk locals for their favorite spots to try this
- โขBest enjoyed fresh and in season
- โขDon't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- โขTry it at multiple places to compare
- โขPair with local beverages for the full experience
Street Food Favorite
Discover why this Venice specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- โขAsk locals for their favorite spots to try this
- โขBest enjoyed fresh and in season
- โขDon't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- โขTry it at multiple places to compare
- โขPair with local beverages for the full experience
Regional Specialty
This iconic Venice creation perfectly captures the essence of the local food culture.
- โขAsk locals for their favorite spots to try this
- โขBest enjoyed fresh and in season
- โขDon't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- โขTry it at multiple places to compare
- โขPair with local beverages for the full experience
Seasonal Treat
A Venice classic that combines traditional techniques with fresh, quality ingredients.
- โขAsk locals for their favorite spots to try this
- โขBest enjoyed fresh and in season
- โขDon't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- โขTry it at multiple places to compare
- โขPair with local beverages for the full experience
Classic Comfort Food
A must-try Venice specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- โขAsk locals for their favorite spots to try this
- โขBest enjoyed fresh and in season
- โขDon't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- โขTry it at multiple places to compare
- โขPair with local beverages for the full experience
Modern Fusion
This beloved Venice dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- โขAsk locals for their favorite spots to try this
- โขBest enjoyed fresh and in season
- โขDon't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- โขTry it at multiple places to compare
- โขPair with local beverages for the full experience
Artisanal Product
Experience the authentic taste of Venice with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- โขAsk locals for their favorite spots to try this
- โขBest enjoyed fresh and in season
- โขDon't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- โขTry it at multiple places to compare
- โขPair with local beverages for the full experience
Heritage Recipe
Discover why this Venice specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- โขAsk locals for their favorite spots to try this
- โขBest enjoyed fresh and in season
- โขDon't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- โขTry it at multiple places to compare
- โขPair with local beverages for the full experience
Bars & Nightlife
Craft cocktail bars, wine bars, breweries, and unique drinking establishments with character and quality in Venice.
Il Mercante
Highly rated Bar in Venice with 4.8 stars from 1108 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
๐ Fondamenta Frari, 2564, 30125 Venezia VE, Italy
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Bar cuisine
Skyline Rooftop Bar
Highly rated Bar in Venice with 4.3 stars from 1113 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
๐ Giudecca, 810, 30133 Venezia VE, Italy
- ๐ฝ๏ธWell-reviewed establishment
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธUpscale dining experience
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Bar cuisine
TiME Social Bar
Highly rated Bar in Venice with 4.8 stars from 762 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
๐ Rio Terร Farsetti, 1414, 30121 Venezia VE, Italy
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธEstablished local favorite
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Bar cuisine
Do Draghi
Highly rated Bar in Venice with 4.9 stars from 1558 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
๐ Sestiere Dorsoduro, 3665, 30123 Venezia VE, Italy
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธBudget-friendly prices
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Bar cuisine
The Library Bar
Highly rated Bar in Venice with 5 stars from 42 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
๐ Calle Larga XXII Marzo, 2032, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Bar cuisine
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Rose bar
Highly rated Bar in Venice with 4.8 stars from 233 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
๐ Calle dei Botteri, 1566, 30125 Venezia VE, Italy
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธEstablished local favorite
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Bar cuisine
Essential Tips
- ๐ฝ๏ธMake reservations at popular restaurants well in advance
- ๐ฝ๏ธTry local specialties and regional dishes unique to the area
- ๐ฝ๏ธAsk locals and hotel staff for their favorite food spots
- ๐ฝ๏ธVisit food markets early in the morning for the freshest selection
- ๐ฝ๏ธDon't be afraid to try street food from busy, popular vendors
- ๐ฝ๏ธTake a food tour early in your visit to discover hidden gems
- ๐ฝ๏ธCheck restaurant hours as they can vary by day and season
- ๐ฝ๏ธBring cash for street food vendors and small local eateries
- ๐ฝ๏ธPace yourself - save room to try multiple dishes and restaurants
- ๐ฝ๏ธDocument your culinary journey with photos and notes
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
Venice's food scene thrives year-round, though each season brings unique culinary experiences. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for outdoor dining and food festivals. Summer features fresh seasonal produce and lively food markets. Winter brings comfort food specialties and cozy indoor dining. Check local food festival calendars for special events.
Average Price
Dining costs in Venice vary widely. Street food and casual eateries: $5-15 per person. Mid-range restaurants: $20-50 per person. Fine dining: $75-150+ per person. Food tours typically range from $50-150. Cooking classes: $75-200. Markets offer budget-friendly options for self-catering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Venice is known for its diverse culinary offerings. Be sure to try the local specialties and regional dishes that showcase the area's unique flavors and traditions. Ask locals for their recommendations, and don't miss the signature dishes at acclaimed restaurants.
For popular and fine dining restaurants, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. Many sought-after spots book up weeks in advance. Casual eateries and street food vendors typically don't require reservations.
Consider taking a food tour early in your visit to get oriented and discover hidden gems. Visit local markets to see fresh ingredients and try samples. Mix fine dining with casual spots and street food for a complete experience. Don't be afraid to venture beyond tourist areas.
Most restaurants in Venice offer vegetarian options, and vegan choices are increasingly common. Many establishments can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Check menus online or call ahead to confirm options that meet your needs.
Tipping customs vary by location. In the US, 15-20% is standard for table service. In Europe, service is often included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated. In Asia, tipping is less common. Check local customs for Venice specifically.
Lunch is typically served 11:30am-2pm, dinner 6pm-10pm, though hours vary by establishment and culture. For popular restaurants, consider dining earlier (before 7pm) or later (after 9pm) to avoid peak crowds. Weekend brunch is popular at many spots.
Enjoyed this guide? Share it!