The best spots in Venice for fried seafood
Top-quality fritto misto to savour along the Venetian lagoon
Fried seafood in Venice is an institution that immediately conjures up the salty sea breeze, shaded alleyways and distant vaporetto horns. Decades of tradition dictate that the dish (squid, crab, prawns, sardines and other local catches) should come in a traditional “scartosso”, a brown paper cone that readily soaks up the sizzling oil. It is a delight for both eyes and palate, elevated across Venice by exceptionally fresh fish and countless places frying it to perfection.
Fritto misto can be picked up from hatch-style street-food counters to eat on the move, or enjoyed seated in traditional dining rooms alongside soft white polenta. Whether newly opened or steeped in history, these addresses share a devotion to hot oil, fresh seafood and a centuries-old culinary ritual. Flawless has rounded up the best spots in Venice for fried seafood, letting you immerse yourself in the magic and flavours of the lagoon.
Fritto Misto
Via San Mauro, 312
Burano is known for its colourful houses, but it has always been home to fishermen too. It is no surprise, then, that one of the best spots to enjoy a perfect fritto misto is right here, steeped in the magical atmosphere of the island. Founded in 2006, FRITTO MISTO has a name as straightforward as its setting and its menu, which offers the best specialities of the Venetian fry shop to enjoy seated at one of the tables overlooking the lagoon or as a takeaway in the classic paper cone. The venue’s added twist comes from the bread bowls the fried seafood is served in; guests get a tasty pairing for the fish, while the place remains sustainable and eco-friendly.
Frito-Inn
Campo San Leonardo, 1587
The name of this small Cannaregio address nods to the Venetian word “fritoin”, an old term for local fry shops. The set-up is unfussy with no seating; you simply order at the counter opening onto the street, before receiving your food in the classic scartosso to enjoy while wandering along the calli. The fried seafood is remarkably light and crunchy thanks to top-tier ingredients. The choice is generous, extending to mozzarella in carrozza, meatballs and fried vegetables: heaven for anyone who loves treats cooked to order in piping-hot oil.
Osteria Antico Giardinetto
Calle dei Morti, 2253
This traditional osteria sits well away from the tourist crowds, which only heightens its authentic appeal. Located near Rialto fish market, its cooking reflects lagoon culinary traditions faithfully, despite its husband-and-wife owners hailing from Abruzzo and Russia. Here, the fritto misto takes centre stage: a generous mix of fish and vegetables paired with crisp green apple, adding a refreshing, tart twist that keeps the fry wonderfully light. A tranquil haven in the heart of Venice for quality cooking in a characterful setting.
Ristorante Do Forni
San Marco, 468
The origins of Ristorante Do Forni date back to the golden era of the Venetian Republic, when the premises housed the bakery supplying the convent of San Zaccaria at the Doge’s Palace. Converted into an eatery in the 18th century, it has been run since 1973 by welcoming host Eligio Paties. The signature dish is the gran fritto Do Forni, a lavish plate piled high with squid, prawns, polenta and mixed fish. Pair it with a chilled white from the well-stocked cellar to round off the meal.
Acqua e Mais
Campiello dei Meloni, 1411-1412
A fresh, energetic counter serving an impeccable scartosso, where genuine Venetian flavours meet the flair of a youthful team. Acqua e Mais offers Venetian street food with a modern edge, designed to be enjoyed on the go with a crisp, crunchy bite. Their signature fritto misto brings together squid, prawns, king prawns and sardines over white polenta, yellow polenta and baccalà mantecato. The kitchen also turns out other local specialities such as cuttlefish in ink and seasonal moeche, the prized soft-shell lagoon crabs.
