Italy is abundant in diverse, eclectic dishes. No matter where you choose to go throughout the country, you'll get an entirely new dining experience. For instance, when you head towards the lagoon, you'll get to enjoy Venetian cuisine, and if you head towards the shores of the Adriatic Sea, you’ll get to experience traditional seafood dishes.
Of course, upon visiting Venice, you must try some of their most authentic, delicious dishes. So, in case you’re not sure where to begin, here is a list of the most popular delights…
Spaghetti in Nero di Seppia
This charcoal-colored pasta looking dish is pieces of squid slow-cooked in tomato sauce. The charcoal color comes from the ink of the squid, which as added after the preparation is complete.
Sarde in Saor
Over a reduced flame, onions are cooked until they become clear and fragrant. Pine nuts, raisins, and lastly, sardines are then mixed in with the onions to create this delightfully tasty dish.
Fritto Misto
This divine dish is simply shrimp, fishballs, and calamari all breaded and deep-fried to perfection. Although many restaurants serve this dish, they all add their own flavors, bread topping, and touches, so don't hesitate to try them all!
Baccala Mantecato
For hours, dried codfish is cooked until the bone is nearly dissolved. It is them creamed with oil to the most impeccable consistency. This makes a great late-night spread for bread and is even better paired with some Venetian wine.
Bigoli in salsa
Onions, anchovies, and fennel seeds are added to the sauce of this magnificent Venetian whole wheat pasta dish. This is one of Venice’s signature cuisines and a must-try!
Tramezzino
This snack entails using pieces of bread in the shape of a triangle and filling them with all sorts of delicious foods such as cheese, tomatoes, artichoke, olives, and more. The options are endless!
Moeche Fritte
These small crabs are breaded and fried whole without the shell. You will find this delicacy served at many fancy Venetian restaurants.
Fegato Alla Veneziana
This dish is a Venetian past-time. In fact, it's a past-time for many cultures. It is liver fried up and laid over a bed of slow-cooked onions.
Castraure
These vibrant colored violet artichokes are picked prematurely then boiled. You won’t even have to peel it, take a bite, and enjoy!
Fiori Di Zucca
When you think of popular Italian dishes, you might not think of zucchini flowers, but you should! These delicate blossoms are a summertime staple and very popular in Venitian cuisine. Scan the menu for fried zucchini flowers stuffed with cheese, and you'll be in for a treat. If you're feeling adventurous, stop by a local market, pick up some fresh blossoms and try making them on your own. A little batter and some aioli is all you need!