Seafood recipes of Venetian Tradition: an overview

Venice is not only a city to see — it’s a city to taste. And if there’s an authentic way to discover the heart of lagoon culture, it’s by sitting down at the table and letting yourself be captivated by the ancient flavors of its cuisine. Venetian gastronomy is rich yet simple, deeply tied to the local territory: the sea, the lagoon, and the city’s markets.

Whether you’re on holiday as a couple, with family, or with friends, tasting a traditional dish is an experience that enriches any trip.

1. Sarde in saor
Perhaps the most iconic dish of Venetian cuisine. Fried sardines rest for at least 24 hours in a marinade of stewed white onions, vinegar, pine nuts, and raisins. The result? A sweet-and-sour appetizer originally created to preserve fish during long sea journeys — and still beloved across the lagoon today.

2. Risotto di gò
The “gò,” or goby fish, is a modest-looking but flavorful lagoon fish. Its broth forms the perfect base for a delicate, authentic risotto that captures the full taste of the Venetian lagoon.

3. Fegato alla veneziana
This dish combines the bold flavor of veal liver with the sweetness of white onions. It’s served with soft polenta for a hearty, comforting meal — especially ideal during colder months.

4. Bigoli in salsa
Bigoli are thick, long pasta typical of the Veneto region. The “salsa” is a rich yet simple sauce made from stewed onions and salted anchovies. Traditionally served on fasting days, they’re now a favorite all year round.

5. Moeche fritte
“Moeche” are small lagoon crabs caught during molting season, when they’re still soft and shell-less. Lightly floured and fried, they’re served hot — a real treat for seafood lovers.

6. Bussolà from Burano & Zaeti
Venetian sweets are rustic and rooted in country tradition. Bussolà is a doughnut-shaped cookie, flavored with vanilla or lemon. Zaeti are rustic cookies made with cornmeal and raisins — perfect with a glass of dessert wine.

Venetian Cuisine You Can Experience: Cooking Classes with Locandiera Micaela
If you want to bring home a bit of authentic Venice, there’s no better way than learning to cook its traditional recipes. In Malamocco, a historic village at the heart of the Lido, Relais Alberti hosts the cooking classes of Locandiera Micaela — a truly special experience.

The classes begin with a walk through the island’s farmer’s markets and local shops, discovering seasonal ingredients. Then, in the kitchen at the Relais, Micaela shares gestures, secrets, and stories inherited from Venetian grandmothers. The best part? Sitting down together at the end to enjoy what you’ve cooked, in a warm and authentic atmosphere.

We look forward to welcoming you for a holiday filled with sea breeze, nature… and delicious food!