Osteria Antico Giardinetto
Hidden away in Calle dei Morti, Osteria Antico Giardinetto is one of Venice's smallest but most inviting osterie, offering an intimate dining experience full of heart and authenticity. This restaurant has been a gastronomic landmark since the 1980s, in the care of Chef Virgilio, who carries on the tradition of his family preparing freshly made, made-to-order treats that bring out the purist of Venetian cuisine.
Family-Owned Tradition and Environment
The Virgilio family has been supplemented since 2007 by the addition of Virgilio's wife, Larisa, who is the only front-of-house staff member, responsible for providing personal, individual service to every customer. The outcome is a cozy, inviting dining experience closer to eating in a guest's home in a Venetian household than eating out.
Menu Highlights
The menu is redacted narrowly on intent, with quality rather than quantity. Expect house-made pastas, seafood risotto, squid ink pasta, and seasonal daily specials that shift according to seasonal ingredients. In-house-dipped sweets like tiramisu and panna cotta round out the restaurant's nicely curated list of local wines. No pizza or lasagna can be found on the menu, which speaks to the osteria's commitment to a more genuine, artistic version of Venetian cooking.
Why It's a Must-Visit
It boasts a 4.7-star rating and returning customers, so Osteria Antico Giardinetto is best for travelers looking for a quiet, out-of-the-way dining experience from tourists. With its small space, be sure to make a reservation, and its 6:30-9:30 PM hours of operation are perfect for a relaxing, unhurried meal.
Recommendations nearby
In case it's fully booked, some of the other restaurants nearby that can be tried are:
Trattoria Al Gazzettino– Colorful, vintage Venetian trattoria with over 11,000 reviews.
Rio Novo– Canalside bistro with good seafood fare.
La Lanterna Da Gas– Renowned for friendly ambience and filling portions.
Ristorante Al Giardinetto da Severino– Classic Venetian bistro with lush garden patio.
Trefanti– Small yet refined restaurant with fresh seafood fare.
Visitor Information
Address: Calle dei Morti, 2253, 30135 Venezia VE, Italy
Contact: +39 041 722882
Website: anticogiardinetto.it
Time: 6:30–9:30 PM (Closed Monday)
Conclusion
For those who prefer real, cozy restaurants in Venice, Italy, Osteria Antico Giardinetto is the perfect choice. It offers a relaxed, intimate dining experience with focus on local tastes, personalized service, and a true feeling of Venice's culinary heart.