Vini da Gigio is a cozy, family-run spot in Venice that brings you a mix of classic and seafood dishes. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and the food makes you feel like you’re getting a taste of Venice.
We started with the Mixed “Venetian Specialities” starter, which was a fun sampler of local bites. Each item had its own unique flavor, showcasing Venice’s love for seafood and fresh ingredients. It’s a great way to start the meal and get a sense of what Venetian food is all about.
The Tagliolini with Spider Crab was a big hit. The pasta was just right—perfectly cooked and well-coated in a buttery sauce that let the sweet crab shine through. If you love seafood, this dish is a must.
Then came the Rigatoni with Red Tuna Ragout, which was hearty and satisfying. The sauce was rich with chunks of red tuna, and the rigatoni had the perfect texture to soak up all that flavor. It’s a filling and delicious option if you’re in the mood for pasta with a twist.
For a real taste of tradition, the Liver “Venetian Style” with Polenta was excellent. The liver was tender, cooked in a sauce that was slightly sweet, and the creamy polenta on the side made it feel like real Venetian comfort food.
To wrap it all up, we had the Almond Cake with Zabaglione. The cake was moist and nutty, and the zabaglione—a creamy, custard-like sauce—was the perfect sweet topping. It’s a dessert that feels indulgent without being too heavy.
Overall, Vini da Gigio is a fantastic pick if you’re looking to enjoy authentic Venetian flavors in a laid-back setting. The dishes are simple but super tasty, and each one gives you a taste of what makes Venetian cooking so special....
Read moreIf you want authentic Venetian food at a reasonable price, an extensive wine list (1000s), thoughtful suggestions from your server, a truly family run business, and a lifechangingly memorable dining experience, go here.
Our server, the owner's son, was exemplary in every sense of the word. He sincerely valued Venetian culture and his families business. If you seek to better understand what it means to be Venetian, your waitstaff will help you to. When I travel, I am desperate for experiences like this one, but they are rightly hard to come by. True kindness and passion for ones work are rare, and I found both here.
All of the following were a mix of specials and recommendations from our server: I enjoyed the softshell crabs and artichoke, as they were in season. I also had polenta, potatoes, and fresh caught torbat while I enjoyed a local Soave. For dessert, I had their in-house pistachio gelato. Last, I concluded with a local Amaro. All of these were excellent and worth the trip alone, but combined together with the insight and humanistic comments and insight our server provided made this trip unforgettable. Their menu changes seasonally, and although it goes without saying, it is sourced fresh and local. This was the best dinner I have had in Venice, and it may be the best dinner I've ever had in Italy.
There is much to say about the effect of tourism on culture, but I feel exceedingly lucky to have experienced what I believe is Venice at its...
Read moreVini da Gigio: An Authentic Venetian Culinary Gem!
Vini da Gigio is a true gem in the heart of Venice. This restaurant offers an authentic Venetian dining experience, the kind where you see locals enjoying a meal, which speaks volumes about its quality.
Yes, it's on the pricier side, but it's absolutely worth the splurge. The quality of the food is exceptional, with fresh, flavorful ingredients and expertly prepared dishes. You can truly taste the passion and dedication that goes into their cooking.
The atmosphere is also fantastic – warm, inviting, and authentically Venetian. It's a really nice restaurant, with a classic charm that enhances the dining experience.
If you're looking for a genuine taste of Venetian cuisine in a beautiful setting, Vini da Gigio is a must-visit. Prepare for a memorable meal that reflects the heart of Venice, and remember that good things come at a price....
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