Make sure to save these 5 dining spots for when you visit VENICE

Introduction: Venice as a Culinary Destination

Venice is a city celebrated not only for its breathtaking canals and historic architecture but also for its world-class cuisine. From the birthplace of cicchetti, the Venetian equivalent of tapas, to iconic drinks like the Venetian spritz and the Bellini at Harry’s Bar, Venice offers an extraordinary food and drink experience. The city’s culinary scene spans centuries of tradition, innovative cooking, and luxury dining, making it a hotspot for food tourism and a frequent feature in Michelin guides and The World’s 50 Best Restaurants.

While Venice is dotted with thousands of restaurants and bars, a few stand out as must-visit destinations for visitors seeking an authentic taste of La Serenissima. Here are five of the most exceptional spots to eat and drink in Venice.

Oro at Hotel Cipriani

Luxury Dining and Venetian Heritage

Oro at Hotel Cipriani, part of the legendary Belmond Hotel, is a beacon of luxury and innovation. Since its debut in 1958, Hotel Cipriani on Giudecca Island has hosted celebrities and dignitaries, offering views over the Venetian lagoon and unmatched service. In 2025, the hotel unveiled a reimagined interior by architect Peter Marino, combining Old Venice grandeur, the Dolce Vita of the 1950s and ’60s, and contemporary art.

Michelin-Starred Experience

Oro’s Michelin-starred menu, curated by Chef Vania Ghedini and culinary director Massimo Bottura of Gucci Osteria, is a feast for the senses. Diners can choose from an à la carte menu or a tasting menu featuring inventive dishes such as the “Homage to Carpaccio” and “Paris-Venice Lobster.” Each dish is a celebration of Venice’s rich culinary tradition while embracing modern creativity.

Cocktail and Cicchetti Haven: Il Bacaro Dior

For a more casual yet equally luxurious experience, Il Bacaro Dior, the first Dior Bar in Italy, offers cocktails and cicchetti with a panoramic view of St. Mark’s Basin. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a Venetian spritz while watching the sunset over the lagoon.

Experimental Cocktail Club at Il Palazzo Experimental

Hidden Gem for Cocktail Enthusiasts

Tucked behind a discreet door in the lobby of Il Palazzo Experimental Hotel, the Experimental Cocktail Club is a hidden gem for cocktail lovers. Designed by Cristina Celestino, the intimate space resembles a jewel box, where every detail contributes to the overall experience.

Artful Cocktails and Venetian Tradition

The menu at the Experimental Cocktail Club is a work of art, with drinks like the TK paying homage to Venice’s heritage. Each cocktail is meticulously crafted, combining local ingredients and inventive techniques that make the venue a must-visit for anyone exploring Venetian mixology.

Oliva Nera

Celebrating Venetian and Veneto Traditions

Oliva Nera, located near St. Mark’s Square, has been a favorite among locals for 25 years. It is celebrated for its warm, home-like atmosphere, where diners feel welcomed as guests rather than patrons.

Signature Dishes

The restaurant’s menu emphasizes Venetian and Veneto culinary traditions, with standout dishes like Seppie in Nero con Polenta (Cuttlefish in black ink with polenta). The careful preparation and use of regional ingredients make each dish comforting yet sophisticated, reflecting the heart of Venetian gastronomy.

Ristorante GLAM in Palazzo Venart

Two Michelin-Star Luxury on the Grand Canal

Ristorante GLAM, located in Palazzo Venart, is Venice’s only two Michelin-starred restaurant. Helmed by chef Enrico Bartolini, GLAM offers an ultra-modern interpretation of traditional Venetian cuisine.

Dining Experience and Ambiance

Guests arriving by boat are treated to breathtaking views of the Grand Canal and glimpses of the Casino of Venice from the restaurant’s garden. The menu draws inspiration from Venice’s culinary heritage while introducing modern techniques and presentation, making it a standout destination for luxury dining in Venice.

Arva at Aman Venice

Exclusive Dining in a Historical Setting

Arva, located at Aman Venice, gained global attention during the Bezos-Sanchez wedding. Even without a hotel stay, visitors can enjoy its culinary offerings through reservations. Arva’s menu focuses on fresh Adriatic fish, artisanal pasta, Tuscan and Ligurian olive oils, and market-fresh produce.

Alfresco Dining on the Grand Canal

For the ultimate Venetian experience, guests can dine at Arva Alfresco, the restaurant’s garden overlooking the Grand Canal. Sip a Venetian spritz or negroni while enjoying views of Venice’s waterways, providing a sensory experience that blends both taste and scenery.

Why Venice is a Food Lover’s Paradise

Venice’s reputation as a culinary hotspot stems from its rich history and diverse offerings. Signature dishes like risotto al nero di seppia (squid ink rice), sgroppino, and tiramisu reflect regional traditions while remaining accessible to tourists.

The city’s cicchetti culture, small plates enjoyed in local wine bars, encourages exploration and tasting multiple flavors in one visit. Venice’s cocktail scene, from the classic Venetian spritz to inventive mixology at hidden bars, complements its gastronomy perfectly.

Venice’s culinary diversity, luxury dining experiences, and inventive mixology make it a prime destination for food tourism, attracting visitors from all over the world.

Tips for Experiencing Venice’s Food Scene

1. Book in advance: Popular restaurants like Oro and Ristorante GLAM require reservations well ahead of time.

2. Try cicchetti: These small plates are ideal for exploring Venetian flavors in a casual setting.

3. Sip local cocktails: Don’t miss the Venetian spritz or signature creations at hidden bars like Experimental Cocktail Club.

4. Embrace seafood: Fresh Adriatic fish and squid ink dishes are staples of Venetian cuisine.

5. Mix luxury with casual: Experience both Michelin-starred restaurants and cozy, home-style eateries like Oliva Nera.

Conclusion: Five Culinary Gems of Venice

Venice is more than a visual masterpiece; it is a city where every meal is an opportunity to experience history, art, and culture on a plate. The five spots highlighted—Oro at Hotel Cipriani, Experimental Cocktail Club, Oliva Nera, Ristorante GLAM, and Arva at Aman Venice—each offer a unique perspective on Venetian dining, from luxurious Michelin-star experiences to intimate, local flavors.

Whether savoring a Venetian spritz by the lagoon, enjoying the innovative tasting menu at Oro, or experiencing the culinary artistry of GLAM, these destinations prove that Venice is as much a feast for the palate as it is for the eyes. Exploring these must-stop spots ensures an unforgettable culinary journey through one of the world’s most enchanting cities.