As Venice sinks, one neighborhood might outlast the rest. Dorsoduro translated roughly as “hard ridge” was built on higher and firmer ground then the other six sestieri (districts) in the city. Before the flooding begins, here are three not-to-be-missed restaurants serving up classic Venetian dishes along Dorsoduro’s modest streets.

> Al Bottegon

Fondamenta Nani, 992; Tel #041 523 0034; Hours: Mon-Sat 8am-8:30pm, Sun 10am-1pm. Hailed for its impressive wine selection and great local dishes, Al Bottegon has been owned and operated by the same family for three generations. Closing early, this is best visited for lunch after a morning tour of the nearby Gallerie dell’Accademia. Try one of the extra large paninis or the house special baccala mantecato—a creamy cod paste whipped with olive oil.

> Osteria ai 4 Feri

Calle lunga San Barnaba, 2745/A; Tel #041 520 6978; Hours: Mon-Sat 12:30-2:30pm, 7:30-10:30pm, Closed Sun. The old bistro décor adds to the comfort of this osteria’s simple, yet delicious, seafood dishes. This is a great spot to sample the morning’s catch from the Adriatic. 

> L’Incontro

Rio Terra Canal, 3062/A; Tel #041 522 2404; Hours: Tue 7:30-11pm, Wed-Sun 12:30-3pm, 7:30-11pm, Closed Mon. This trattoria, a local favorite, serves traditional fare with a lot of flavor. Those who are not fish lovers will appreciate L’Incontro’s carne (meat) selection, and every diner will enjoy the courteous service.

Giovanna Palatucci 5.25.09

This entry was posted on Tuesday, May 26th, 2009 at 1345 and is filed under Food + Culture, Ristoranti, Venezia.