11 places I recommend•3 in the Michelin guide
These are the 11 restaurants, bakeries, coffee shops and ice cream shops in Venice I have eaten at myself and would recommend.
A wine bar and kitchen in Dorsoduro run by two brothers. Their tiramisu was the absolute best one I had that trip. The pasta was also very good.
Address: Sestiere Dorsoduro, 3778, 30123 Venezia VE, Italy
The Cipriani family's quieter place on Giudecca, looking back across the water. It was definitely a beautiful view (despite some stormy weather that day) but it lacks the charm of Harry's Bar. Now I know some people may say Harry's restaurants in Venice are overpriced. That may be true, but the food is delicious and that's what I prioritise.
Address: Fondamenta S. Biagio, 773, 30133 Venezia VE, Italy
The bar where the Bellini and beef carpaccio were invented, just off Piazza San Marco. Small, plain inside, and priced for its history. Still my absolute favourite beef carpaccio. They also have surprisingly tasty little sandwiches.
Address: Calle Vallaresso, 1323, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy
A seafood trattoria down a quiet calle in Castello, with a small vine-covered courtyard at the back. Known for its mixed seafood antipasti and handmade pasta. I've been here twice and it might be my favourite restaurant in Venice. The quality of the food is incredibly high and the atmosphere is pleasant. The only regret I have is that I should have asked for a second helping of the pasta with scallops; I found the portion size to be a bit small.
Address: Calle del Pestrin, 3886, 30122 Venezia VE, Italy
A neighbourhood seafood osteria in Cannaregio, on a quiet campiello away from the crowds. I was a bit hesitant as I was under the impression this place might be touristy. However, the food was really delicious and the service excellent — especially the squid ink pasta.
Address: Campiello Widmann già Biri, 5405/a, 30121 Venezia VE, Italy
A San Polo trattoria known for refusing pizza, lasagne and tourist menus, and for its seafood. It's also one of George Clooney's favourites. The place is cosy and the food is really good quality.
Address: Rio Terà de le Carampane, 1911, 30125 Venezia VE, Italy
Neapolitan-style pizza a minute from Piazza San Marco. A reliable option in a part of Venice where that isn't a given.
Address: Calle Larga S. Marco, 404/408, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy
A bakery counter doing pizza al taglio and focaccia by weight. Not really spectacular but good food when you're in a rush.
Address: Calle Seconda de la Fava, 5602, 30122 Venezia VE, Italy
Pizza by the slice near the Rialto, cut with scissors and sold by weight. Consistently busy. You most likely will have to eat this walking or standing outside but it's worth it.
Address: Rugheta del Ravano, 973, 30125 Venezia VE, Italy
Trading on Piazza San Marco since 1720, with an orchestra outside. The oldest café in Italy, and priced accordingly. This might be considered a tourist trap but I love it — you get a beautiful view of Saint Mark's Basilica and everything I've had there was good. I liked the simple ham and cheese sandwich which they served under a cage so the seagulls wouldn't steal it.
Address: P.za San Marco, 57, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy
A tiny gelateria near the Rialto, usually with a queue out the door. The queue moves quickly and it's definitely the best gelato you'll have in Venice.
Address: Sotoportego de la Bissa, 5453, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy
