Venice is a city like no other. From the canals to the architecture, there’s so much to explore. And of course, let’s not forget the food! Venice is home to some of the most delicious and unique dishes in Italy. If you’re planning a trip to Venice, or even if you’re just curious, here are 12 must-try local foods that you won’t want to miss. Bon appétit!
1. Cicchetti
Cicchetti are small snacks or appetizers that originate from Venice, Italy. They are typically served in bars and cafes, and are often eaten as a light meal or before dinner.
There are endless possibilities when it comes to cicchetti, as they can be made with a variety of ingredients including meats, cheeses, vegetables, and even desserts.
One of the best things about cicchetti is that they are relatively cheap, so you can try a few different kinds without breaking the bank. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite to eat or a leisurely pre-dinner snack, cicchetti are the perfect way to experience the flavors of Venice.
2. Sarde in Saor
Sarde in saor is a delicious dish from Venice, Italy that consists of sardines that are marinated in a sweet and sour sauce. The dish is typically made with white wine, vinegar, onions, raisins, and pine nuts.
It is traditionally served as an appetizer or main course. Sarde in saor is a popular dish during the autumn and winter months. The sweetness of the raisins and the sourness of the vinegar balance each other out, making for a delicious and unique flavor.
This dish is also unique because it uses ingredients that are typically found in Venetian cuisines, such as white wine, vinegar, onions, and pine nuts. If you’re ever in Venice during the autumn or winter months, try this delicious dish!
3. Bigoli in Salsa
Bigoli in Salsa is a Venetian dish that is made with thick, hand-rolled spaghetti and a savory sauce made from onions, anchovies, and olive oil. This traditional dish is simple but delicious, and it has been a favorite of Venetians for centuries.
While there are many different ways to make Bigoli in Salsa, the best way to enjoy it is to visit Venice and try it for yourself. The city’s restaurants offer a variety of interpretations of the dish, and there is nothing like enjoying a bowl of Bigoli in Salsa while taking in the sights and sounds of Venice.
4. Risotto alla Veneta
One of the most popular dishes in Venice is risotto alla Veneta, a creamy rice dish that is often served with seafood. The dish is believed to have originated in the city of Venice during the Middle Ages, and it remains one of the most popular items on restaurant menus today.
Risotto alla Veneta is traditionally made with short-grain rice, broth, white wine, and Parmesan cheese. The rice is cooked slowly over low heat until it is tender and creamy. Many restaurants also add saffron to give the dish a distinctive yellow color.
Seafood is often added to the dish, including shrimp, squid, and scallops. Risotto alla Veneta is a delicious way to experience the culinary traditions of Venice, and it is sure to leave you wanting more.
5. Fegato alla Veneziana
There’s nothing quite like enjoying a delicious meal in one of the world’s most beautiful cities. And when it comes to food, Venice, Italy is definitely a top destination.
One of the city’s signature dishes is fegato alla veneziana. This dish is made with beef or calf’s liver that is thinly sliced and pan-fried. It is then cooked with onions, garlic, and white wine, and served with polenta or fried potatoes. Whether you’re a lover of liver or not, this dish is definitely worth trying when you’re in Venice. Bon appétit!
6. Baccalà Mantecato
Baccalà Mantecato is a dish originating from Venice, Italy that is made from salted codfish that has been whipped into a light, fluffy cream. The cod is first soaked in water for 24 hours to remove the salt, then it is poached in milk until it is very tender.
Finally, it is whipped with olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice to create a light, airy mixture. Baccalà Mantecato is traditionally served as a spread on crostini or as a filling for ravioli.
It can also be served simply on its own as a dip. No matter how it is enjoyed, Baccalà Mantecato is a delicious and unique dish that is sure to please any palate.
7. Polpette di Bollito
Venetian cuisine is known for its simplicity and focuses on seasonal ingredients. One of the most famous dishes from Venice is polpette di bollito, or boiled meatballs.
The meatballs are typically made from beef, pork, or veal, and are served with a variety of sauces. While the dish might sound simple, it is actually quite complex and requires a great deal of skill to prepare.
The meatballs must be cooked just the right amount so that they are tender but not overcooked. In addition, the sauces must be carefully balanced so as not to overpower the delicate flavors of the meatballs. When done right, polpette di bollito is a delicious dish that is sure to please any palate.
8. Zuppa di Pesce
Zuppa di Pesce, or seafood soup, is a Venetian specialty that is not to be missed. The soup is made with a variety of fresh seafood, including shrimp, squid, and crab.
The broth is seasoned with garlic, tomatoes, and white wine, and the whole dish is served with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Zuppa di Pesce is best enjoyed in one of Venice’s many outdoor cafes, where you can watch the hustle and bustle of the city while savoring this delicious soup.
9. Tiramisù
There’s nothing like tiramisù in Venice, Italy. This classic Italian dessert is made with layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and rich mascarpone cream, and it’s absolutely delicious.
Tiramisù originates from the city of Treviso in the Veneto region of Italy, and it’s been a popular dessert for centuries. Today, you can find tiramisù all over Italy, but there’s nothing quite like the Tiramisù di Venezia.
This traditional Venetian tiramisù is made with mascarpone cheese from the surrounding area, and it’s simply sublime. If you’re ever in Venice, be sure to try a piece of this amazing dessert. You won’t be disappointed!
10. Gelato
There’s nothing quite like a scoop of gelato on a hot summer day. And in Venice, Italy, there are gelato shops on almost every corner. With so many choices, it can be tough to decide where to go.
But if you want the best gelato in Venice, you have to check out Gelateria Il Doge. This family-run shop has been serving up delicious gelato for generations.
The gelato is made fresh each day using only natural ingredients. And with more than 40 flavors to choose from, there’s something for everyone. From classics like chocolate and vanilla to unique creations like bacio (chocolate and hazelnut) and limone (lemon), there’s a flavor for everyone at Gelateria Il Doge.
11. Panna Cotta
If you’re looking for a delicious dessert to take your dining experience in Venice, Italy to the next level, look no further than panna cotta. This creamy custard is made with heavy cream, milk, and sugar, then set with gelatin.
It’s typically flavored with vanilla, but can also be made with coffee, chocolate, or fruit. Panna cotta is usually served chilled, making it the perfect way to end a meal on a hot summer day.
And because it can be made ahead of time, it’s ideal for entertaining. Whether you enjoy it on its own or topped with fresh berries, panna cotta is sure to delight your taste buds.
12. Sfogliatelle
When most people think of Venice, Italy, they picture canals and gondolas. But there’s another iconic image that’s just as synonymous with the city: sfogliatelle.
These delicate pastries are made by layering thin sheets of dough around a filling of ricotta cheese, then shaping them into traditional crescent moon shapes. The word “sfogliatelle” comes from the Italian word for “layers,” and that’s exactly what makes these pastries so special.
Each bite reveals flaky, buttery layers of dough, with a rich and creamy filling that’s simply irresistible. Sfogliatelle are often served as part of an Italian breakfast or as a dessert, and they can be found in bakeries all over Venice.
But if you really want to try the best sfogliatelle in town, head to Pasticceria Piccolo Mondo. This local favorite has been serving up fresh and delicious sfogliatelle for over 50 years, and it’s easy to see why they’re still one of the most popular spots in town.
In Conclusion
There you have it! 12 must-try local foods in Venice, Italy. From traditional dishes like Zuppa di Pesce and Tiramisù to delicious desserts like Gelato and Panna Cotta, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So next time you’re in Venice, be sure to sample some of these amazing local dishes. Buon appetito!
