A Taste of Venice: The Best Local Dishes to Savor on Before or After your Cruise

Experience the Flavors of Venice on Your Cruise Trip: A Guide to Must-Visit Places, Cafes, and Restaurants.

Welcome to Venice! As you step off your cruise ship and onto the winding streets of this enchanting city, get ready for a culinary adventure like no other. Venice is not just about breathtaking canals and historic architecture; it’s also a haven for food lovers. This Venice cruise trip guide will help you explore the best local dishes and hidden culinary gems. Let's dive in!

Eddie and Erica out front of the Rialto Bridge

1. Start at Rialto Market

Begin your Venice cruise trip with a visit to the Rialto Market. Located near the iconic Rialto Bridge, this bustling market is a treasure trove of fresh produce and seafood. You’ll find locally grown fruits and vegetables, such as artichokes from San Erasmo island and delicate white asparagus. Don’t miss out on sampling some fresh strawberries or the unique ‘Monk’s beard’ vegetable.

Address: Campo della Pescaria, 30122 Venezia VE, ItalyClosest Vaporetto Stop: Rialto Mercato

2. Savor Cicchetti and Wine at a Bacaro

No trip to Venice is complete without indulging in Cicchetti, the Venetian version of tapas. Head to a local Bacaro, a traditional wine bar, and enjoy small plates of delicious snacks paired with a glass of local wine or Prosecco. Try the Robiola cheese-topped Cicchetti or a simple yet satisfying Bruschetta.

Top Bacari to Visit:

• Vineria all’Amarone near Rialto Bridge

• Trattoria Promessi Sposi in Cannaregio

3. Delight in Seafood Specialties

Venetian cuisine boasts an array of seafood dishes. Make sure to try Polenta e schie, a dish of creamy polenta topped with tiny, flavorful shrimp from the lagoon. Another must-try is Sarde in Saor, sweet and sour sardines marinated with onions, vinegar, and pine nuts.

Where to Try:

• Ristorante da Fiore in San Polo

• Paradiso Perduto in Cannaregio

4. Indulge in Venetian Pastries

Venice is known for its delightful pastries. Sample Buranelli, sweet biscuits from the island of Burano, perfect for dunking in coffee. If you visit during Carnival, don’t miss Frittelle, delicious raisin-studded fritters that are a festive treat.

Best Spots for Pastries:

• Carmellino Palmisano on Burano Island

• Local bakeries throughout Venice

5. Experience Venetian Coffee Culture

Venice’s coffee culture is something to savor. Sip on a rich espresso at a local café and soak in the atmosphere. The tradition of caffe sospeso, or “suspended coffee,” where you pay for an extra cup for someone in need, is a heartwarming Venetian practice.

Historic Café:

• Caffè Florian in St. Mark’s Square, established in 1720

6. Explore Traditional Venetian Dishes

For a true taste of Venice, try Risotto al Nero di Sepia, a striking black risotto made with squid ink. If you’re a fan of creamy dishes, Baccala Mantecato, a smooth codfish mousse, is a Venetian classic that won’t disappoint.

Recommended Restaurants:

• Antica Osteria Ruga Rialto in San Polo

• Osteria Alla Staffa in Castello

7. Sip on Venetian Wines and Spritzers

Venetian wines are a delight. Pair your meals with a crisp white wine like Soave or a sparkling Prosecco. For something unique, try a Bellini, a refreshing mix of Prosecco and peach puree, famously invented in Venice.

Wine Bars:

• Al Prosecco in Campo San Giacomo dell’Orio

• Cantine del Vino già Schiavi in Dorsoduro

8. Enjoy Casual Eats

If you prefer casual dining, grab a Tramezzino, a triangular sandwich with various fillings, from a local café. It’s a perfect snack as you wander through the city’s picturesque streets.

Popular Cafés:

• Bar alla Toletta in Dorsoduro

• Café Noir in Santa Croce

9. Try Unique Local Snacks

Confetti candy, sugar-coated almonds in various colors, are not just delicious but also carry traditional significance. Pick up a few as sweet souvenirs of your Venetian adventure.

Where to Buy:

• Local confectioneries and markets

10. End with a Sweet Treat

Cap off your culinary journey with a classic Tiramisu or a slice of blueberry cheesecake from a charming café near San Pantalon. These desserts are the perfect ending to a delightful day of gastronomic exploration.

Cafés for Desserts:

• I Tre Mercanti near Rialto Bridge

• Pasticceria Tonolo in Dorsoduro

Final Thoughts

Venice is a city that tantalizes the senses, and its culinary offerings are no exception. From the vibrant Rialto Market to the cozy Bacari, every corner of Venice offers a new flavor to discover. So, on your next Venice cruise trip, make sure to explore these must-visit places in Venice and savor the best local dishes. Buon viaggio and happy eating!