Venice is many things. Romantic? Yes. Maze-like? Absolutely. Slightly damp? You bet. But let’s talk about what really matters here—the food. Forget the gondolas and the Instagram views. If you’re not eating your way through Venice, you’re doing it wrong. This city isn’t just a visual feast, it’s a literal one, where seafood, cicchetti, and creamy risottos are the real stars of the show. So loosen your waistband and come hungry. Here’s your not-so-official (but way more fun) food tour of Venice.
Start with Cicchetti (a.k.a. Venetian Tapas for the Rest of Us)
First rule of Venice: Never skip cicchetti. These bite-sized bar snacks are usually found in tiny bacari (think cozy, no-fuss wine bars) and range from creamy baccalà mantecato (salt cod spread on toast) to marinated artichokes and fried mozzarella balls that are dangerously addictive.
You’ll spot locals washing them down with an ombra—a small glass of wine—and looking like they’ve completely mastered life. Follow their lead. Grab a few plates, hover awkwardly at the bar pretending you’re sophisticated, and pretend you didn’t just inhale five meatballs in under two minutes.
Pasta, Obviously
Yes, Venice is surrounded by water, but carbs still reign supreme. Pasta dishes here tend to lean toward seafood, so expect things like spaghetti alle vongole (clams) or bigoli in salsa (thick pasta with anchovy-onion sauce). Don’t be scared by the fishiness. This isn’t the can-of-tuna situation you regret every time. It’s subtle, rich, and best enjoyed with a glass of white wine and a view that makes you consider quitting your job and becoming a gondolier.
Risotto Like You Mean It
Venetians take their risotto seriously, and so should you. Risotto al nero di seppia (with cuttlefish ink) may look like something from a Tim Burton dinner party, but it’s earthy, rich, and tastes like the sea if the sea were five-star Italian cuisine. Pair it with some fresh bread, ignore the fact your lips are turning black, and pretend you always eat this elegantly.
Sweet Treats and Coffee That Could Revive the Dead
No Venetian food tour is complete without pastries. Try the fritole, Venice’s answer to doughnuts, often stuffed with raisins or cream. Or pick up a slice of tiramisu so good it might actually make you cry. Pair any of these with a sharply bitter espresso that could wake a ghost and you’ll be living your best Italian life.
If you’re lucky enough to catch a view of San Giorgio Maggiore while sipping your post-meal coffee, take a moment to appreciate the scene. The gleaming church, the gentle waves, your slightly-too-tight waistband—it’s all part of the charm.
Wrap It Up with a Spritz and Regret Nothing
End your culinary adventure with a Venetian spritz. Yes, they’re everywhere now, but Venice did it first and still does it best. Sit back, sip slowly, and toast to a day well spent eating your way across a city that’s equal parts gorgeous and gluttonous.
And if you find yourself needing a nap on a vaporetto afterward, just go with it. Venice understands.
