Restaurants and Cafès

Ombra del Leone

Ombra del Leone is a refined yet welcoming restaurant nestled in the heart of Venice, just a short walk from the San Marco square. The restaurant offers a blend of traditional Venetian dishes and contemporary Italian cuisine, emphasizing high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. It boasts a beutiful terrace on the grand canal with striking and unforgettable view of the Salute church.

Gran Cafe Quadri

Originally opened in 1638 it has been a Venetian hotspot for centuries thanks to its timeless allure and evocative location. With the new management from Alajmo family, the cafe has regained its former glory and returned to being one of the grand Venetian coffeehouses and restaurants. Fantastic level of service, amazing decor, very creative and delicious food. It is very expensive but worth every cent.

Ai Mercanti

Ai Mercanti is a family-run gastrosteria, blending Venetian culinary roots with the flair of French bistronomie; a refined yet relaxed gastronomic experience. Perfect for lovers of Venetian cuisine with a creative twist, and those after a romantic yet unpretentious evening.

Harrys Bar

Harry’s Bar is a cultural touchstone in Venice: a cozy, art-deco refuge still run by the Cipriani family, famed for inventing the Bellini and Carpaccio, beloved by iconic figures across generations, and officially recognized as a historic heritage site. A visit offers a taste of 20th‑century charm (and equally classic cocktails) but be prepared to pay for tradition.

Do Forni

Trattoria Do Forni is a historic Venetian institution nestled in San Marco, not far from Piazza San Marco, the restaurant combines heritage, artistry, and seafood-rich Venetian cuisine in an elegant setting—ideal for those seeking a refined yet authentically Venetian restaurant experience.

Acqua Pazza

a stylish restaurant in Campo Sant’Angelo offering refined southern Italian cuisine with a focus on Amalfi Coast seafood and Neapolitan pizza. Known for dishes like pesce all’acqua pazza, fresh crab paccheri, and buffalo mozzarella specialties. The setting includes a cozy interior and a large outdoor terrace, ideal for alfresco dining.

Le Cafe

They serve mouthwatering pastries and good coffee as well as savoury snacks, perfect for a little break on the sunny Santo Stefano square. The Service is really top class and the interiors are charming...one of our favourite cafès in town.

Ai Do Leoni

Ai Do Leoni is a chic yet unpretentious gem in San Marco offering bright cocktails, inventive cicchetti, and a natural‑wine focus, all wrapped in a playful, modern ambience. It’s ideal for an aperitivo or evening drink away from the tourist crowds—but with great energy and flavour.

Rosa Salva

The historical base of the century-old and successful family company. Full of tempting aromas from their pastry shop and kitchen, this establishment offers great value for money and quality is guaranteed!

Bistro de Venise

A culturally rich, romantic Venetian bistro blending centuries-old recipes with modern technique, paired with rare wines and impeccable service—ideal for fine dining lovers or special occasions with a touch of history.

Cafe Lavena

Caffè Lavena is one of Venice’s most iconic cafés, located since 1750 in the brightest corner of Piazza San Marco offering artisan pastries, gelato, coffee, cocktails, and aperitifs, served with polished, elegant service, often accompanied by live music from its in-house orchestra. Considering its location be prepared to pay extra, for a more local and well priced experience try standing at the bar.

Pasticceria Marchini Time

Pasticceria Marchini Time is a lively, modern pastry shop located in Campo San Luca, right in the heart of Venice between the Rialto Bridge and St. Mark’s Square. It’s known for its wide and colorful pastry selection, including Venetian classics like zaleti, pane dei Dogi, almond croissants, kranz, shortbreads, and cannoli.

Bacaro Trattoria Da Fiore

Typical, informal, and above all Venetian. The ancient Trattoria "da Fiore" is a unique place, but with two distinct souls within it, "Trattoria" for a full sit down meal and "Bacaro" for cicchetti and a good glass of wine on the go. A corner of Venice where you can feel at home.

Paticceria Tonolo

Highly recommended by Venetians and visitors alike, Tonolo delivers top-notch pastries and coffee at fair prices, especially memorable during Carniva, making it a must-stop sweet spot in Venice.

Trattoria alla madonna

Trattoria alla Madonna is a classic Venetian seafood institution, tucked into a picturesque calle just steps from the Rialto Bridge. Expect generous, authentic dishes crafted with ingredients sourced from the nearby Rialto fish market. Signature plates include seafood risotto (among Venice’s best) and granseola. A go-to for lovers of authentic Venetian seafood served in a historic, neighborhood-style trattoria.

Naranzaria

Naranzaria is a trendy bacaro‑style wine bar perched beside the Grand Canal, perfect for a scenic, flavorful stop along the canal if you're in the mood for cicchetti, canal views, and a lively drinks vibe

All'arco

All’Arco captures the spirit of everyday Venice: informal, flavorful, and full of character. Ideal for a quick bite and wine at the heart of the Rialto experience. Definitely some of the best cicchetti in town!

Bacán

Bacán is a stylish Latin American-inspired mezcaleria and restaurant, blending lagoon-sourced ingredients with bold cuisines from Mexico, Peru, Ecuador, and Argentina to create fresh, inventive dishes and cocktails. Ideal for an evening of inventive Latin‑flavored dining in the city’s historic core.

Osteria La Zucca

La Zucca is a rare gem in Venice: a veggie-forward yet inclusive osteria offering fair priced original, soulful cooking in a welcoming and stylish setting. Highly recommended and best enjoyed with a reservation.

Birreria La Corte

If you're craving excellent Neapolitan-style pizza, solid craft beer, and a welcoming square-side setting in Venice, Birraria La Corte should be on your list.

Antiche Carampane

Whether you're a seafood enthusiast or simply looking to indulge in traditional Venetian cuisine, Antiche Carampane provides a memorable dining experience that captures the essence of Venice's rich culinary heritage.

Il Mercante

Il Mercante stands out in Venice's vibrant cocktail scene for its innovative drinks, rich history, and intimate setting.Whether you're a cocktail enthusiast or seeking a romantic evening, it's a must-visit destination.

Al Mercà

The “IN” place especially during the warmer season, a small and crowded wine bar that dispenses fabulous “cicchetti” and rivers of Prosecco. Among the best places for an aperitif before dinner. No seats available, just perfect for meeting with friends.

Cantina Do Mori

A dark and old looking cicchetti (snack) bar close to the Rialto market that has been in business for centuries. Venetians traditionally visit these sort of bars for lunch or before dinner for a light snack and a glass of wine. They serve delicious snacks of fish, meat and cheese at very reasonable prices.

Gelateria Alaska

Gelateria Alaska is a beloved, no-frills gelato shop tucked away in Venice's Santa Croce district. Known for its inventive, often savory flavors and commitment to quality, it offers a unique alternative to the city's more tourist-centric gelaterias.

Acqua e Mais

A new mode of food consumption, based on quality and respect for the environment. The project focuses on the welfare of individuals and the environment. More than 90% of the material used as food packaging is biodegradable with the objective that the point of sale has no environmental impact upon the city that hosts it. The original and competitively priced products are offered in a unique setting and are consumable while strolling through the streets or at home minimizing packaging and food waste. The menu is characterised by single portions, combinations of fish and vegetables, interpreted with a modern Italian spirit, hence the company motto "fish, vegetables and Italian soul.”

Stappo

A contemporary wine bar and kitchen located in Venice's Santa Croce district. The establishment emphasizes natural wines and seasonal, locally sourced cuisine. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or a foodie seeking authentic Venetian flavors, Stappo offers a memorable and enriching experience in the heart of Venice.

La Bottiglia

La Bottiglia is a charming bacaro, offering a delightful fusion of local street food and natural wines. Known for its deliscious selection of Foccacia sandwhiches and cold meat and cheese boards. Situated near Campo San Stin, just a short walk from the Basilica dei Frari, it provides a cozy and authentic Venetian experience.

Ozio

Ozio offers a refreshing break from typical tourist bars; natural wines, tasty cicchetti, relaxed terrace seating, and a welcoming team. Whether you're stopping by for a morning coffee, a light lunch, or an evening glass, it's a beautifully balanced spot in a historic Venetian square.

Nevodi

Nevodi is a beloved Castello gem offering heartfelt Venetian cooking in a welcoming, family‑run setting. With standout seafood and pasta, genuine service, and a convivial vibe, it’s a solid choice for an authentic local dinner, just remember to book ahead!

Osteria Santa Marina

Located in the historic Campo Santa Marina in the Castello district, L’Osteria di Santa Marina is an elegant yet inviting seafood-focused restaurant that balances Venetian tradition with creative flair. Closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Corte Sconta

Corte Sconta offers a genuine taste of Venetian gastronomy seafood‑focused, traditionally prepared, in a cozy trattoria setting with a stellar wine list and vine-shaded courtayard. Perfect for those seeking authenticity away from the tourist crowds. Closed on Sundays.

Osteria alle Testiere

Osteria Alle Testiere is a tiny, highly acclaimed seafood-focused osteria tucked away in Castello. With just about 9–20 tightly arranged tables, this intimate spot demands advance booking and exudes old‑Venetian charm . The kitchen revolves around the freshest catch from the Rialto market, with no freezer policy and a daily rotating menu of razor clams, spider‑crab tagliolini, grilled scallops, soft‑shell crab” and more. Closed Mondays and Sundays

Al Covo

Al Covo, nestled in a quiet corner of Castello near the Arsenale, is a celebrated family‑run restaurant founded in 1987 by Cesare and his wife Diane, who bring genuine Venetian hospitality to the table. The cuisine is deeply rooted in lagoon‑to‑plate tradition, with seafood sourced daily from the Rialto market and vegetables grown on the cooperative farm Osti in Orto on Sant’Erasmo island. Definitely worth booking in advance. Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Ristorante Local

Local is a Michelin‑starred restaurant in sestiere Castello, blending contemporary flair with deep respect for lagoon traditions. perfect for diners seeking elegance, authenticity, and a thoughtful wine experience. Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays

Pietra Rossa

A warm and contemporary osteria in the quiet Corte Nova named after the nearby “red stone” (pietra rossa), a legendary spot said to have stopped the plague in 1630. Opened in 2023 by chef-host Andrea Lorenzon, Pietra Rossa blends Venetian culinary tradition with modern techniques, including cooking over a Japanese-style Kamado grill. Closed Mondays

Wildner

Ristorante Wildner is a beloved family‑run trattoria located right on the canal with sweeping views of San Giorgio Maggiore church and the lagoon. Serving timeless Venetian seafood and traditional dishes with a welcoming family touch.

Serra dei Giardini

Serra dei Giardini is a tranquil oasis; a leafy, light-filled greenhouse café that offers tasty organic bites, cultural events, and a serene retreat from tourist crowds.

Trattoria dai Fioi

Trattoria Dai Fioi delivers delicious, well-priced neopoletan style pizza, pasta, grilled steaks and more in a friendly, casual inviting setting tucked away in a hidden side street away from the tourist crowds. Offeering both indoor and outdoor seating.

Trattoria del Local

Trattoria del Local is a charming eatery in Venice's Castello district, offering a delightful blend of traditional Italian home cooking and contemporary flair. As a sister establishment to the Michelin-starred Ristorante Local, it brings the same dedication to quality ingredients and hospitality in a more relaxed setting. Requires booking, closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Basara

Basara Restaurant in Venice offers a unique fusion of Japanese and Italian flavors, combining the art of sushi with the finest Italian ingredients. Located in the heart of the Dorsoduro disctrict, Basara provides a sophisticated yet cozy dining experience. Great for those seeking something less traditional. 

Ristorante Adriatica

Adriatica is a modern, vibrant riverside eatery offering well-crafted Italian fare, great ambiance, and a scenic garden, making it a standout choice on the Zattere for both casual aperitifs and thoughtful dining.

Experimental Cocktail Club

Experimental Cocktail Club in Venice is a hidden gem tucked behind a discreet door in the lobby of Il Palazzo Experimental on the Zattere waterfront. It blends Venetian elegance with global mixology flair, creating an intimate lounge atmosphere that feels like stepping into a Wes Anderson film. Perfect for pre-dinner cocktails or a late-night sip. Closed Tuesdays .

Linea D'Ombra

Linea d’Ombra offers a high-end yet relaxed dining experience in one of Venice’s most picturesque spots. With creative seafood cuisine, a world-class wine list, and exceptional lagoon views, it's ideal for romantic evenings, special occasions, or anyone looking to experience modern Venetian gastronomy at its best.

Estro

Estro is a top pick in Venice for wine lovers who appreciate a thoughtful, seasonal take on Venetian cuisine in an intimate, expertly designed setting. You’ll find tasting menus, alongside an a la carte selection of starters, pasta, mains, and desserts.

OKE Zattere

OKE Zattere is an excellent choice if you're after a casual yet spacious venue with varied pizza options, gluten-free/organic focus, and canal-side charm. Great for groups, families, or solo diners looking for relaxed meals with scenic views.

Gelateria Nico

For a classic Venetian gelato experience, Gelateria Nico is a must-visit. Its signature gianduiotto with whipped cream, served with picturesque canal views and a vintage atmosphere, make it perfect for a sweet break in Venice. Whether strolling or seated at the charming terrace.

Enoteca Ai Artisti

A warm, intimate gem in Dorsoduro for fans of creative Venetian cuisine and well-paired wines. Ideal for a cozy dinner off the main tourist trail, just be sure to reserve early!

Trattoria Anzolo Raffaele

Set in a peaceful Venetian square far from the tourist crowds the Trattoria blends Venetian tradition with Sardinian influences, offering seasonal, locally inspired dishes. Housemade filled pastas, duck ragù gnocchi, Adriatic seafood, and select meats lead the menu, while homemade desserts like tiramisu, crème brûlée, and babà add a sweet finish.

Cips Club

Cip’s Club is a relaxed yet refined waterfront gem on Giudecca Island, part of the iconic Belmond Hotel Cipriani. Located on a floating pontoon overlooking the lagoon, it offers sweeping views of St. Mark’s Square and the Venetian skyline. it serves modern Venetian cuisine crafted from seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Cip’s Club is known for its impeccable service, stunning setting, and sophisticated charm.

Cante del Vino già Schiavi

Schiavi is a charming, no-frills wine tavern in Dorsoduro celebrated for its inventive cicchetti, excellent wine selection, convivial atmosphere, and canal‐side setting. Perfect for casual aperitivo or a light snack in true Venetian style.

Gam Gam

Israeli and other Eastern Mediterranean delicacies, fully Kosher. The staff is friendly and helpful. There's plenty of space both inside and on the terrace, it is located footsteps away from the Guglie vaporetto stop beside the entrance of the Jewish Ghetto.

Venice M'art

Venice M’Art is an inviting, creatively driven canal front venue where art, design, and Venetian culinary flair merge. Whether you're sipping a cocktail by the grand canal, indulging in cicchetti, or enjoying a full dinner, it's an ideal spot to soak up Venice's beauty in a stylish, contemporary setting.

Vini Da Gigio

This charming, family-run trattoria is ideal for a relaxed yet refined dining experience, rooted in Venice’s culinary traditions. The menu showcases the best of local flavors; fresh seafood from the Rialto market, classic dishes like black cuttlefish with polenta, Venetian-style liver, handmade bigoli pasta, and seasonal specialties such as wild game. Closed on Monday and Tuesday

Anice Stellato

Anice Stellato is a hidden gem for those seeking an authentic Venetian dining experience with a twist; fresh seafood, house-made pasta, a relaxed atmosphere, funky wine selectoin, and tables right by a quiet canal. Make a reservation it’s absolutely worth it. Closed on Mondays

Vino Vero

Vino Vero is a must visit for wine lovers seeking an authentic Venice experience. Known for its selection of natural and biodynamic wines, expertly curated 'cichetti', knowledgeable staff, and charming canal-side ambiance. Ideal for both casual drinkers and dedicated connoisseurs.

Osteria Giorgione da Masa

Giorgione da Masa offers a unique, intimate journey where Japanese home cooking meets Venetian soul. It’s perfect for adventurous diners craving refined seafood dishes in a warm, retrò-venetian setting. Highly recommended to reserve in advance. Closed Wednesdays and Thursdays

Algiubagio

Algiubagiò offers an unforgettable combination of lagoon front charm, refined Italian dishes, extensive wine choices, and personal hospitality perfect for a scenic, romantic evening in Venice. Reservations recommended, especially for terrace seating overlooking the lagoon. Closed Tuesdays

Taverna Al Remer

Nestled in a quiet and picturesque hidden courtyrd overlooking the grand canal, Taverna al Remer delivers a genuine taste of Venice; delicate seafood, hearty Venetian fare, flickering candlelight, and serene canal views all wrapped in a cozy, intimate setting.

Ostaria Boccadoro

Boccadoro is a refined restaurant located in a small venetial square 'campo', known for its elegant atmosphere and emphasis on high-quality, locally sourced seafood. The restaurant offers a modern take on traditional Venetian cuisine, with a menu that highlights fresh fish, seasonal ingredients, and creative Italian dishes.

Al Timon

Al Timon offers a fun, authentic Venetian bacaro experience, cheap cicchetti, excellent steak options, canal-front seating, convivial ambiance, and friendly service. Arrive early for the best spots and treat yourself to a delicious, laid-back evening on the water.

Paradiso Perduto

Paradiso Perduto is a vibrant, authentic Venetian bacaro where hearty local seafood, communal tables, live music, and canal-side ambiance merge into a spirited night out. It’s loud, friendly, and unfiltered, perfect for a memorable evening in the “real” Venice. Reservations or early arrival recommended! Closed Tuesdays

Osteria Alla Vedova

Large choice of cicchetti to eat while standing up and drinking an “ombra” (small glass of house wine) but it is also a great restaurant. One of our favorite places for an authentic Venetian dinner. Surely one of the most traditional Osteria in Venice and much loved by locals