Venice is just as tempting for food and drinks as it is for its canals and palaces. From cosy coffee spots to places for a fancy dinner, the city has plenty of great options.
I often get asked where I like to eat in Venice, but to be honest, I don’t have many places I return to often. There are a few exceptions, like Sullaluna for lunch or Ombra del Leone for a spritz, but for dinner, I usually try something new depending on my mood or where I’m staying.
For my book ‘Walks in Venice. In the footsteps of 9 locals’, I asked each of the Venetians I interviewed to share their favourite spots to eat and drink. Their recommendations were so spot-on. I’ve tried most of them myself over the years, and completely agree. The few I haven’t visited yet are high on my list for next time. (You’ll find more about how I plan my trips in ‘How I prepare my trips to Venice as a frequent visitor’.)
Where to drink coffee and cocktails in Venice
Rosa Salva
Address: Calle Fiubera 950, San Marco; San Giovanni e Paolo, Castello 6780
Website: rosasalva.it
Rosa Salva is a historic name in Venice and one of the city’s oldest pastry shops as it exists since 1879. You can find them in the San Marco area and in front of Ospedale. They are especially known for their coffee and traditional pastries. If, like me, you have a sweet tooth, this is the perfect spot to stop for a coffee and something delicious to go with it. It is listed as one of the top 5 places to eat and drink in my book ‘Walks in Venice’.
Ombra del Leone
Address: Ca’ Giustinian, San Marco 1364
Website: www.ombradelleone.com
Located on the ground floor of Ca’ Giustinian, the headquarters of La Biennale di Venezia, Ombra del Leone offers stunning views of Canal Grande, the Salute and the lagoon. It’s an excellent spot to unwind with a drink while soaking up the Venetian scenery and catching some sun on the terrace. Whenever I’m in the area, I usually make a small detour to check if there’s a free table. It is listed as one of the top 5 places to eat and drink in my book ‘Walks in Venice’.
Il Mercante
Address: Fondamenta Frari 2564, San Polo
Website: ilmercantevenezia.com
Just across the Frari church, Il Mercante is known for its creative cocktails and stylish interior. The bar’s atmosphere, inspired by the travels of the Venetian merchant Marco Polo, and the delicious drinks make it a must-visit for cocktail lovers. Each cocktail tells a story, blending exotic ingredients with a local twist. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to sit back and stay a while. Ever since Eva (Studio Immagino Venezia) first took me there a few years ago, just seeing their photos on Instagram is enough to make my mouth water.
Where to eat in Venice
Sullaluna
Address: Fondamenta de la Misericordia, 2535 Cannaregio
Website: sullalunavenezia.it
Sullaluna is a charming bookshop and bistro where I love to go for lunch. The terrace by the canal is a peaceful spot to enjoy a light meal while watching the world go by, or you can sit inside, surrounded by books. The menu features organic and vegetarian options, and they serve their own organic prosecco. As a fan of graphic novels, I always stop by to browse their selection and see if there’s something new to take home. It is listed as one of the top 5 places to eat and drink in my book ‘Walks in Venice’.
Rosticceria Gislon
Address: Calle de la Bissa 5424/a, San Marco
Rosticceria Gislon is nestled near Campo San Bartolomeo, in a small alley called Calle della Bissa. It is a historic Venetian eatery renowned for its authentic lunchtime experience. Established in the 1930s, it offers a variety of traditional dishes and a bustling atmosphere.
“Rosticceria Ghislon is about as honest a Venetian lunchtime experience as you can get. Typical Venetian lunchtime snacks (mozzarella in carozza, arancini, fior di zucchini fritti) as well as more substantial dishes, served up at a bustling noisy bar where the clientele is still predominantly local. Expect to be jostled for space, but just go with the flow and enjoy both the chaotic atmosphere and the reasonably priced food.” Andy, loyal follower
Osteria Enoteca Ai Artisti
Address: Fondamenta della Toletta 1169 A, Dorsoduro
Website: enotecaartisti.com
Located between the Accademia bridge and Ca’ Rezzonico, Ai Artisti is known for its menu that celebrates local flavors, blending tradition with a modern twist, all complemented by a carefully curated wine list. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxed, elegant dinner without the formality. I’ve always found the owners to be incredibly friendly, ensuring you enjoy a delicious meal with just the right amount of attention. In the summer, you can enjoy your meal on the terrace by the canal. The restaurant has a limited number of seats, so be sure to make a reservation.
Antiche Carampane
Address: Rio Terà de le Carampane 1911, San Polo
Website: antichecarampane.com
Tucked away in San Polo, Antiche Carampane is a historic restaurant loved by both locals and visitors. Known for its seafood specialties like ‘sarde in saor’ and cuttlefish in black ink, it offers a traditional Venetian dining experience. The warm, inviting decor adds to its charm, though the tables can feel a bit close together at times. It is listed as one of the top 5 places to eat and drink in my book ‘Walks in Venice’.
Il Ridotto
Address: Campo SS. Filippo e Giacomo 4509, Castello
Website: www.facebook.com/ilridottorestaurant
For those seeking a gourmet experience, Il Ridotto offers an intimate setting with only a handful of tables. Chef Gianni Bonaccorsi crafts creative, seasonally inspired dishes with fresh, high-quality ingredients. While it’s definitely a splurge, it’s one well worth taking for a truly exceptional meal.
“For a fancy dinner, if we intend to splurge, we go to Il Ridotto, a small gourmet restaurant close to Piazza San Marco. Everything is so perfect, the atmosphere, the table setting, with feather-weight Murano glasses made especially for them inspired by the seasons and a well-researched menu that combines great ingredients with tasteful creativity.” Nicoletta, Naturally Epicurean
Trattoria Alla Madonna
Address: Calle della Madonna 594, San Polo
Website: ristoranteallamadonna.com
Established in 1954 near the Rialto market, Alla Madonna is a classic trattoria loved by locals for its traditional Venetian dishes, particularly its seafood. The menu is all made with ingredients sourced from the market nearby and is expertly prepared to preserve the authentic flavors of each ingredient. It’s the kind of place locals have been visiting for years, where not much has changed, and that’s exactly what makes it so special. If you’re looking for a true taste of Venice, this is the place to go.
Osteria Giorgione da Masa
Address: Calle Larga dei Proverbi 4582a, Cannaregio
Website: www.osteriagiorgionedamasa.com
This charming osteria beautifully blends Venetian ingredients with Japanese finesse, thanks to Chef Masa’s unique background. The menu changes frequently, guided by the seasons and local produce from the lagoon. The dishes are innovative, but they never feel overly experimental. I loved the degustation menu, which featured a variety of small dishes to share. Each one was more delicious than the one before.
Al Nono Risorto
Address: Santa Croce 2338
Website: alnonorisortovenezia.com
Nono Risorto is a relaxed osteria near the Rialto bridge, renowned for its warm hospitality and inviting atmosphere. The menu features a variety of traditional Venetian dishes, including homemade pastas, fresh seafood, and expertly crafted pizzas with thin, crispy crusts. A highlight of the dining experience is the leafy garden, providing a tranquil outdoor setting to enjoy your meal. It is listed as one of the top 5 places to eat and drink in my book ‘Walks in Venice’.
Trattoria Al Bomba
Address: Calle de L’oca 4297 B, Cannaregio
Website: www.trattoriaalbomba.com
This cozy spot near the Jewish Ghetto offers a single long table where strangers quickly become lunch companions. The vibe is relaxed and communal, with straightforward yet satisfying dishes, including creamy risottos, seafood pasta, and generous portions of classic Venetian dishes. It’s the perfect place for an authentic, no-frills meal shared with new friends.
“I really enjoy Trattoria Al Bomba, near Cannaregio. They combine traditional food with an easy-going atmosphere. The dining room features only one long table with all guests sitting close to each other… you are likely to get to talk to the other customers.” Mattia, Feelin’ Venice
Hungry for more Venice tips from locals?
From quiet canal-side cafés to memorable dinners, these 12 addresses are just a small taste of the Venice I explore in ‘Walks in Venice. In the footsteps of 9 locals’. Each walk in the book includes local insights, lesser-known spots, and the kind of addresses you won’t find in standard guides.
Do you have any favourite spots of your own? Share them in the comments. I’d love to hear your recommendations!
Buon appetito!