If you're looking for a dining experience that perfectly captures Venetian tradition with an atmosphere that is warm and welcoming, Hostaria Osottoosopra needs to be at the top of your list. Located in the quiet Santa Croce district, this well-loved restaurant has a stellar 4.8-star rating from over 6,000 reviews and is one of the highest-recommended dinners in Venice.
Hostaria Osottoosopra boasts an extremely traditional Italian and Venetian cuisine menu with fresh seafood, homemade pasta, and long-cooked meat dishes to satisfy any taste buds. Revelers are doting on such delights as slow-braised beef cheek, squid ink pasta, seafood ravioli, and truffle ravioli — all beautifully arranged and prepared with the finest seasonal ingredients.
To fans of Venetian classics, the restaurant also serves regional specialties like mussels, duck ragù, and shrimp ravioli, alongside a flavorful wine list particularly made to complement each meal.
The title "Osottoosopra" ("upside down") is a reference to the restaurant's creativity and sense of humor in its hospitality. The ambiance is intimate and inviting, with rustic accents making it ideal both for a relaxed lunch and for an intimate dinner. Situated in Santa Croce, it's slightly off the beaten tourist path, yet it offers guests a peaceful and real-stones Venetian experience.
The restaurant boasts a good wine list of local Veneto wines and Italian wines, the perfect compliment to every course. To complete the meal, guests may enjoy rich desserts like passion fruit mousse or traditional old Venetian desserts that provide a sweet ending to a delicious meal.
Opening Hours: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM (Open Daily)
Address: Santa Croce, 164, 30135 Venezia VE, Italy
Phone: +39 333 802 7830
Website: osottoosopra.com
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Feature and What Makes It Special
Authentic Menu: Traditional Venetian and Italian food with fresh, seasonal ingredients
Top-Rated Experience: 4.8-star rating from thousands of happy visitors
Perfect Atmosphere: Cosy and intimate setting, great for everyday and special dining
Excellent Wine Pairings: Carefully selected wine list to accompany every meal
Central yet Quiet Location: Easy to get to but far from most busy tourist zone
Book early — this is a favorite and books up quickly, especially for dinner.
Pair the seafood ravioli or pasta courses with a glass of crisp local white wine to make an excellent experience.
Eat early evening for a serene meal and to enjoy fully the cozy atmosphere.