Venice, Florida is a hidden gem of a foodie town. Located along the Gulf Coast between Tampa and Naples, this laidback beach community has a dining scene as delicious as the sunsets.
From casual spots serving the freshest seafood to elegant Italian eateries dishing up homemade pastas, Venice has options for every palate. You can soak in stunning waterfront views while sipping cocktails, enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere with the kiddos, or indulge in a romantic sunset dinner for two.
So if you find yourself in Venice and aren’t sure where to indulge your taste buds, look no further. I’ve curated this list of the absolute best restaurants in Venice for 2023 based on reviews, local recommendations, awards, and my own experiences dining at these fantastic spots.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, make sure to check out these top 10 eateries around town for amazing food, drinks, ambiance, and service. You truly can’t go wrong with any restaurant that made the cut!
List of 10 Best Restaurants in Venice FL
| Restaurant | Hours | Menu Highlights | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sharky’s on the Pier | Daily 11am – 10pm | Seafood, oysters, grouper sandwiches | sharkysonthepier.com |
| Captain Brian’s Seafood Market | Daily 11am – 9pm | Fresh seafood, lobster rolls, clam chowder | captainbriansseafood.com |
| Cassariano Italian Eatery | Wed-Sat 5pm – 10pm | Wood-fired pizza, homemade pasta, Italian wine | cassariano.com |
| Allegro Bistro | Tues-Sat 11am – 9pm | Chicken piccata, pasta, tiramisu | allegro-bistro.com |
| The Crow’s Nest | Daily 7am – 10pm | Seafood, raw bar, brunch | crowsnest-venice.com |
| Snook Haven | Tues-Sat 11am – 10pm | Seafood, river cruises, live music | snookhaven.com |
| Cafe Venice | Daily 8am – 9pm | Italian, American, burgers | cafevenicerestaurantandbar.com |
| The Original Cafe Venice | Tues-Sat 11am – 9pm | Pizza, pasta, salads | originalcafevenice.com |
| Back Bay Bistro | Daily 5pm – 10pm | Seafood, sunsets, cocktails | backbaybistro.com |
| Darrell’s Restaurant | Daily 11am – 10pm | Seafood, burgers, sunsets | darrellsrestaurant.net |
Best Restaurants in Venice for Fresh Seafood
If you love seafood, you’ll be hooked on the incredible spots in Venice serving up the catch of the day. From laidback raw bars to fine dining oceanfront eateries, sink your teeth into deliciously fresh fish and shellfish at these must-try restaurants.
1. Sharky’s on the Pier
Perched right on the historic Venice Fishing Pier, Sharky’s takes “fresh from the sea to the plate” to a whole new level. This beachy restaurant reels in fish and shellfish daily right from its backyard. You just can’t beat the seafood quality.
Their award-winning signature dishes like the spicy shark bites and grouper sandwich are amazing. And don’t miss their happy hour, featuring $1 oysters and killer sunset views. With its casual vibes and friendly service, Sharky’s is a local favorite for a reason.
2. Captain Brian’s Seafood Market
For super fresh seafood at affordable prices, head to this down-home seafood market serving up Venice’s best lobster rolls, crab cakes, and clam chowder. Order at the counter, then grab a seat at one of the outdoor picnic tables. Nothing fancy, just delicious, no-fuss seafood eats.
Kids are welcome and portions are generous at Captain Brian’s. It captures the laidback, beach town vibe that Venice does so well.
Best Italian Restaurants in Venice
From wood-fired pizza to homemade pastas, Venice has some fabulous Italian restaurants that will transport your tastebuds to the old country. These spots capture the charm and flavors of Italy while also showcasing fresh local ingredients.
3. Cassariano Italian Eatery
For a refined Italian dining experience in downtown Venice, Cassariano can’t be beat. Their wood-fired pizzas baked in an authentic Italian oven are to-die-for. You’ll also find classic homemade pastas, veal chops, chicken piccata and other traditional dishes served in an elegant setting.
The wines are all Italian and the desserts are sublime. It’s perfect for date nights or special occasions with its white tablecloth ambiance and phenomenal service. This hidden gem is quickly becoming one of Venice’s top rated restaurants.
4. Allegro Bistro
Craving homemade pasta in a cozy neighborhood setting? Allegro Bistro is your spot. This family-owned Italian restaurant serves up handmade gnocchi, ravioli, fettuccine alfredo and more. Their chicken piccata is a standout and the tiramisu is perfection.
Allegro has a quaint indoor dining room as well as outdoor seating. With friendly service and reasonable prices, it’s a local favorite. Reservations are recommended as seating is limited.
Top Waterfront Restaurants in Venice
It’s hard to beat dining with a waterfront view, especially when the sun is setting over the Gulf Coast. Venice has some fabulous restaurants situated right on the water, offering world-class views along with delicious food.
5. The Crow’s Nest
This iconic Venice restaurant, located at the South Jetty Marina, has been serving up great food and incredible views since 1976. The fresh seafood is fantastic, from the raw bar and oysters to specialties like pecan crusted grouper. And the sunset views from the dining room and outdoor tropical bar are breathtaking.
Live music daily, brunch on Sundays, and friendly service add to the appeal of this classic Venice restaurant. Definitely request a table on the back deck overlooking the boats and harbor to fully experience the magic of The Crow’s Nest.
6. Snook Haven
For a laidback, Old Florida kind of waterfront dining experience, head to Snook Haven. Situated right along the scenic Myakka River, this restaurant has awesome outdoor picnic tables for taking in the natural scenery.
You can even hop on an old-fashioned riverboat cruise here after your meal. And don’t miss the live music in the afternoons and evenings either. It all adds up to a super chill, family-friendly atmosphere. The seafood focused menu is quite good too – try the catfish if you visit!
Best Spots for Outdoor Dining in Venice
One of the simple joys of visiting Venice is dining al fresco at the many restaurants with beautiful outdoor seating areas. From covered patios to open air courtyard gardens, enjoy that sunny Florida weather while savoring delicious cuisine at these top picks for outdoor dining.
7. Cafe Venice
This charming restaurant has a lovely garden patio area surrounded by flowers and greenery. It’s a little hidden oasis right off Venice Avenue. Their menu spans Italian favorites like chicken piccata to American classics like juicy burgers and steak frites.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are all delightful at Cafe Venice. Grab a cappuccino and fresh pastries in the morning, then return for a garden fresh salad or flatbread pizza for lunch.
8. The Original Cafe Venice
The name says it all – this is the original Cafe Venice location, serving up delicious meals under sprawling oak trees draped in Spanish moss. The ambiance is so tranquil and lovely.
Everything from pizzas and pastas to seafood and steaks are executed wonderfully. And kids and pets are welcome in the outdoor courtyard area, making this is a great pick for casual family meals.
Top Picks for Sunset Dinners in Venice
What better way to end a day in Venice than watching the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico with a delicious meal? For unforgettable sunset dining, check out these prime spots for waterfront views and amazing food as the sun slips into the sea.
9. Back Bay Bistro
This refined yet casual bistro offers unmatched sunset views from its dockside location on the Intracoastal Waterway. Both the indoor and outdoor spaces provide awesome waterfront vantage points, but I’d recommend a table on their Pavers patio for the best experience.
Their menu focuses on creative seafood dishes like pecan crusted snapper and Maryland style crab cakes. And specialty cocktails like the mango sunset margarita pair perfectly with the views. For a special seaside dinner, Back Bay Bistro can’t be topped.
10. Darrell’s Restaurant
Ask any local where to catch the sunset over dinner and they’ll likely recommend Darrell’s. This unpretentious spot sits right on the Intracoastal Waterway and has amazing vistas across the water. Owned by a husband and wife team, it has a loyal following.
While you can’t go wrong with their seafood and steaks, Darrell’s is also known for killer burgers, sandwiches, and appetizers. Dine in the indoor dining room or out on the tiki bar patio. Then stick around for the show as another incredible sunset unfolds.
Experience Venice’s Amazing Dining Scene
From exquisite seafood to authentic Italian, the restaurants in Venice truly have something for every palate and occasion. The laidback but sophisticated waterfront town offers options ranging from casual and budget-friendly to elegant fine dining.
The 10 restaurants highlighted here are just a sampling of Venice’s best culinary offerings for 2023. A foodie paradise awaits in this Gulf Coast beach town, with delicious cuisine, sunset water views, and welcoming hospitality.
Whether you’re a local looking to fall in love with Venice’s restaurants all over again or a visitor eager to explore this underrated Florida destination, add the top eateries shared here to your must-try list.
With incredible recipes, ingredients, and talent, Venice’s dining scene evokes the rich pleasures of eating and makes every meal an experience to savor. So come hungry and prepare to be amazed at just how marvelous dining in Venice can be!
Frequently Asked Questions About Venice Restaurants
What is the restaurant price range in Venice?
Venice offers both affordable and upscale dining options. Many excellent restaurants offer entrees under $20, while the higher-end fine dining venues have entrees from $30 to $50 on average. There are great choices at every price point.
Do you need reservations in Venice restaurants?
For high-end restaurants, especially during peak season, reservations are strongly recommended. More casual spots may allow walk-ins depending on availability. Calling ahead for outdoor seating at popular spots in nice weather is also advised.
Are Venice restaurants child and pet friendly?
Many restaurants in Venice welcome children and pets, especially in their outdoor dining areas. However, some upscale or romantic eateries may have restrictions or discourage young kids. Calling ahead about any special accommodations is wise.
What is the dress code at restaurants in Venice?
During the day and at casual spots, dress is totally casual – shorts, flip flops, and bathing suits are fine. For finer dining restaurants at dinner, resort casual like sundresses, polos, slacks, and nice sandals are recommended.
What are the typical restaurant hours in Venice?
Most restaurants serve lunch from 11am to 3pm and dinner from 5pm to 10pm. However, hours vary by restaurant so checking individual websites for details is advised. Popular places fill up quickly for dinner.
