When traveling to Venice, Italy, the rich history and beautiful architecture that you\’ll encounter is absolutely breathtaking. But witnessing these historical treasures isn\’t the only thing that makes this place such a destination. The city is also famous for its incredible gastronomy – serving up incredibly diverse and delicious dishes in its many restaurants.

The dining scene in Venice has seen much growth over the past few years with more and more international cuisines being incorporated into the food served in restaurants. There\’s something for everyone in this unique city: From Michelin-starred restaurants to traditional trattorias and even vegan eateries.

It should come as no surprise that Venetian cuisine is heavily influenced by the city\’s location on the Adriatic Sea. Fish is the star in many local dishes, including the well-known risotto of Venice, Risotto di Gò. This classic dish is made with tiny little shrimp called gò and is a must-try when you are visiting the city.

The cuisine of Venice is also heavily influenced by the Austro-Hungarian empire which ruled the city for many years. One of the dishes which has become synonymous with the city is the popular dish of cuttlefish in black ink, served with polenta. Originally from the nearby region of Friuli Venezia Giulia, it quickly made its way to the city thanks to Austrian rule and is now a staple in the local gastronomy scene.

Another dish worth checking out is the classic Venetian bigoli, a type of thick spaghetti made with whole wheat flour and served with seafood or aglio e olio (garlic and olive oil). If you\’re interested in something a little more daring, then try the city\’s famous fegato alla Veneziana, which is liver cooked with onions and is either loved or loathed by locals and tourists alike.

One cannot talk about Venice\’s gastronomy scene without mentioning cicchetti, which are small bite-sized appetizers typically served at ombre bars, the typical Venetian Bars. They are often paired with local wines like Prosecco and Soave and have their own culture surrounding them. One can find them all around Venice, but try it at Osteria alla Ciurma, as this place specializes in traditional cicchetti.

The Best Restaurants of Venice

Acqua Pazza is a noteworthy seafood spot in the city that is open all year round. They have an extensive menu of seafood dishes, with preferences given to fresh seasonal options. The restaurant is located on the Giudecca and gives off an upscale vibe with their chic and minimal décor, and moody lighting. Their seafood starters are equally tempting to the main courses served, especially the lightly fried crabs\’ claws, and whole-grilled octopus with a refreshing side salad

If you\’re looking for an intimate and romantic dining experience in Venice, La Zucca is worth a visit. Their candlelit garden area is perfect for date nights, while their traditional Venetian plates are packed with hearty ingredients such as pumpkin, smoky eggplant, and fresh seafood which are as colorful as its surroundings. Try their juicy lobster risotto, and make sure to have a bite of their crunchy almond and chocolate nougats for a sweet finish.

The Best Vegan Restaurants in Venice

Crea Lab is a hidden gem in the city, far from the noise and crowds of the tourist-heavy areas. The restaurant aims to create an open and loving environment that is inclusive to everyone, making it perfect for vegans and non-vegans alike. They serve an all-vegan menu of dishes that are made with locally grown and organic ingredients, such as gluten-free zucchini lasagna, quinoa burgers, couscous salads, and their famous creamy vegan Chocolate Mousse.

If you want vegan comfort food of the highest quality, then head to Soul Kitchen. They have a menu with a wide range of offerings, serving everything from vegan burgers and pizzas to salads and soups. Try their bbq pulled Jackfruit sandwich with onion rings and a freshly squeezed lemonade.

The Best Traditional Restaurants in Venice

If you\’re looking for an authentic Venetian experience, there is no better option than the iconic Trattoria alla Madonna. The restaurant has been a local favorite since it first opened in 1954, and is situated in an old medieval building in the heart of Venice. The restaurant\’s co-owner, Umberto Pavon, is certified Sommelier and every dish comes perfectly paired with a top-class wine from virtually every corner of Italy.

Antica Trattoria Madonna combines an elegant atmosphere with traditional Venetian cuisine. This eatery is all about indulging in decadent plates like squid ink tagliatelle with calamari or the hearty beef ragoût with freshly made polenta. For a sweet ending, their house-made tiramisù is heavenly.

The Best Bars in Venice

Local craft beer is becoming more and more popular in the city, and Ma Che Siete Venuti a Fa is one of the best bars to experience it. They have an extensive collection of draught and bottled beers from some of the best breweries in town as well as other Italian Cities. Their selection changes with the season and includes at least 12 different local beers.

Il Mercante is a chic and stylish bar that specializes in craft cocktails with a creative menu that rotates seasonally. They use only natural and fresh ingredients to create delicious and memorable drinks you won\’t find anywhere else. Make sure to try their signature Tiramisù Martini or Negroni Sbagliato, a twist on the classic negroni made with bubbly prosecco rather than gin.

The Best Coffee Shops in Venice

For the tastiest coffee in the city, head to Torrefazione Cannaregio 1499, a family-owned coffee roastery, where every bean is sourced directly from the producers. The owners roast all their own coffee in-house and prioritize quality and ethical sourcing over quantity. The coffee they serve is made to perfection, with rich flavors and aromas steeped in each cup.

Serving handcrafted coffee, chocolate, and pastry treats, Café Florian is situated in the heart of Piazza San Marco, overlooking the stunning square. The location\’s period style atmosphere is revered by visitors worldwide, with its ornate marble floors, regal frescos on the walls, and far-reaching ceilings, all providing an exceptional environment for savoring Italian culture.