The Top 10 Must-Try Dishes While You’re In Venice!

Venice—just the name conjures up images of gondolas gliding through picturesque canals, the grandeur of the Venice Film Festival, and the romantic allure of a city steeped in history. But if you’re planning a trip to this iconic destination, there’s something else you absolutely cannot overlook: the food. Italian cuisine is world-renowned, and Venice offers a unique culinary experience that reflects its rich history and culture. Whether you’re in town for the festival or simply to soak in the sights, make sure you take time to indulge in the local flavors. Here’s a guide to the top 10 dishes you must try when you’re in Venice, along with where to find the best versions of these culinary delights.

1. Sarde in Saor

Sarde in Saor is a traditional Venetian dish that dates back to the city’s maritime history. This dish features sardines marinated in a sweet and sour mixture of vinegar, onions, raisins, and pine nuts. Originally created as a way to preserve fish for long voyages, Sarde in Saor has become a beloved appetizer in Venice. The sweet and tangy flavors perfectly capture the essence of Venetian cuisine—where sea meets land and history mingles with innovation. For an authentic taste, visit Osteria Al Portego, where they serve a classic rendition that’s as flavorful as it is historic.

2. Risi e Bisi

Risi e Bisi, a simple yet elegant dish of rice and peas, is often compared to risotto but is slightly soupier. This dish has been a staple of Venetian cuisine for centuries, particularly celebrated on April 25th, St. Mark’s Day. Traditionally made with fresh peas from the lagoon islands and pancetta, it represents the arrival of spring in Venice. Head to Trattoria Antiche Carampane for a taste of this seasonal delight, where they prepare it just like the Venetian nonnas used to.

3. Bigoli in Salsa

Bigoli in Salsa is a quintessential Venetian pasta dish made with thick, whole-wheat noodles served in a savory sauce of anchovies and onions. This dish has its roots in Venetian religious traditions, often served during Lent when meat was off the menu. The robust flavor of the anchovies combined with the sweetness of the onions creates a hearty, comforting dish that’s still popular today. For a true Venetian experience, try it at Ristorante Da Fiore, where the bigoli are made fresh daily.

4. Fegato alla Veneziana

Fegato alla Veneziana, or Venetian-style liver, is one of Venice’s most famous dishes. Thinly sliced calf’s liver is cooked with onions, butter, and a touch of vinegar, creating a rich and flavorful dish that pairs beautifully with creamy polenta. This dish dates back to the Renaissance and remains a favorite among locals and visitors alike. To taste the best Fegato alla Veneziana, visit Trattoria da Romano on the island of Burano, where it’s been a house specialty for decades.

5. Baccalà Mantecato

Baccalà Mantecato is a Venetian delicacy made from dried cod that’s whipped into a creamy spread with olive oil and garlic. This dish originated from Venice’s trading connections with the Nordic countries, where dried cod was a common import. Today, it’s typically served as an antipasto on crostini or polenta. For the best Baccalà Mantecato, head to Antiche Botteghe Titiana, where the cod is still prepared using the traditional method passed down through generations.

6. Moeche

Moeche are soft-shell crabs, a seasonal delicacy found in the Venetian lagoon. These tiny crabs are caught during their molting period when their shells are soft, and they’re fried to a crisp, making for a delectable treat. Moeche have been part of Venetian cuisine for centuries, enjoyed particularly in the spring and fall. For a taste of this rare and prized dish, visit Ristorante Al Covo, known for its expertise in preparing seafood straight from the lagoon.

7. Fritto Misto

Fritto Misto, a mixed fried seafood platter, is Venice’s answer to street food, often served in a paper cone for easy snacking. This dish includes a variety of seafood—such as squid, shrimp, and small fish—dredged in flour and fried until golden. Fritto Misto reflects Venice’s deep connection to the sea and is a must-try for any seafood lover. Grab a cone from Frito Inn near the Rialto Market for a quick and tasty bite while you explore the city.

8. Polenta e Schie

Polenta e Schie is a rustic dish featuring tiny lagoon shrimp (schie) served over a bed of creamy polenta. The shrimp are typically cooked in their shells with garlic and white wine, then spooned over the polenta for a simple yet flavorful meal. This dish highlights the Venetian love for polenta and the bounty of the lagoon. Experience it at Osteria alla Vedova, where the polenta is always perfectly creamy, and the schie are as fresh as they come.

9. Tiramisu

While Tiramisu is popular worldwide, many people don’t realize that this beloved dessert originated in the Veneto region, with claims of its invention in Treviso, just a short drive from Venice. This layered dessert of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cheese, and cocoa powder is the perfect way to end a Venetian meal. For an authentic taste, visit I Tre Mercanti, a shop known for its artisanal tiramisu, where they offer various flavors alongside the classic recipe.

10. Baicoli

Baicoli are traditional Venetian biscuits, originally baked by sailors because they kept well on long sea voyages. These lightly sweetened, crisp biscuits are perfect for dipping in coffee or dessert wine. Baicoli have a long history in Venice and were once a staple in every Venetian pantry. Today, you can find them at Pasticceria Rosa Salva, one of the oldest bakeries in Venice, where they’re made following a time-honored recipe.