Are you a food lover like me planning a trip to Trieste? Then you're in for a treat! In this local guide, I have curated a list of the top trattorias and restaurants in Trieste that will surely tantalize your taste buds. This culinary journey I created for you has something for everyone, from traditional Italian trattorias to fine dining cuisines.
Immerse yourself in the rich flavors of the Friuli Venezia Giulia region as I take you on a gastronomic adventure like no other (after all, Trieste is my hometown, so I know it pretty well).
Indulge in delectable seafood dishes made with the freshest catch of the day and savor the melt-in-your-mouth pasta prepared with traditional methods passed down through generations. Learn where the locals eat in Trieste!
Each restaurant on my list has been carefully selected based on its exceptional food quality, unique ambiance, and exceptional service (and I obviously dine in all of them, so I can guarantee you that you won't be disappointed).
Whether you're looking for a cozy spot for a romantic dinner or a lively eatery to share a meal with friends, I have you covered. Get ready to explore the hidden gems of Trieste's culinary scene as I unveil the city's most beloved dining establishments!
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Factors to consider when choosing a restaurant
When choosing a restaurant in Trieste, Italy, there are several factors you should consider to ensure an unforgettable dining experience. First and foremost, consider your budget. Trieste offers a range of options, from budget-friendly eateries to high-end fine-dining restaurants.
Decide how much you want to spend and choose a restaurant that fits your budget without compromising quality (that is why I wrote this list, to make your life easier and give you all the best dining options in Trieste for every budget and occasion).
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Another essential factor to consider is the type of cuisine you're in the mood for. Trieste boasts a diverse culinary scene, with restaurants offering everything from traditional Italian dishes like pasta and pizza to seafood, meat, and vegan/vegetarian restaurants. (I also included a restaurant with gluten and dairy-free options; it's incredible, I love it).
Lastly, consider the ambiance and atmosphere of the restaurant. Trieste is known for its charming and picturesque streets, so why not choose a restaurant with a stunning view? Some eateries offer breathtaking sea vistas or the city's historic architecture.
Whether you prefer a cozy, intimate setting or a lively and vibrant atmosphere, Trieste has it all.
If you are visiting Trieste before embarking on a cruise ship, then you will find extremely helpful these articles I wrote about everything you need to know about Trieste Cruise Port:
Let me help you plan the best trip to Trieste before embarking on your cruise ship!
Trieste is becoming a popular destination spot in Italy, and its demand is increasing.
The question is: Do you want to know where to eat in Trieste, Italy?
Well, that’s exactly what you will learn in this article. Remember to read it till the end because this post is filled with the best restaurants in Trieste, from budget places to fish, meat, and some of the most loved restaurants with a stunning view in this incredible city!
So please sit back, relax, and let me take you on a tour of Trieste's best restaurants!
What is the dish of Trieste?
Trieste is a city known for its diverse and delicious cuisine. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty winter soup like Jota, or a flavorful seafood dish like scampi alla buzara, or even a comforting goulash with bread dumplings, Trieste has a wide range of local dishes that are sure to satisfy your taste buds.
And don't forget to save room for dessert, as the city is also famous for its mouth-watering grappa-filled cakes. With such a variety of options, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Trieste's restaurants and the best local food in Trieste.
What is the oldest restaurant in Trieste?
If you are looking for a restaurant with a lot of history, you cannot miss to visit the Caffe Tommaseo, founded in 1825 by Tommaso Marcato. Caffe Tommaseo is not only a cafe, it's a gorgeous and elegant restaurant near Piazza Unità d'Italia and Triste waterfront.
At Caffe Tommaseo, you can enjoy a cup of coffee with a delicious slice of cafe (they also serve breakfast from 9 a.m.), or you can pop in for an elegant lunch and dinner.
Psst! Planning to visit CITY?
I’ve got many blog posts about it! Here are some of them to help you plan your next dream vacation in CITY:
Where to eat in Trieste, Italy?
There are plenty of great trattorias and restaurants in Trieste. In this list, you will find only restaurants located in the city center because, as a traveler, you might decide to avoid renting a car and explore the city on foot.
To make your life easier, I compiled this list with food places you can easily reach by having a relaxing walk from your accommodation in Trieste city center or as a stop for lunch during your Trieste sightseeing (plus a couple of restaurants where you will need to catch a bus or a taxi to reach them, but it will be totally worth it).
If you like this article, share it with your friends; maybe someone you know is planning to visit Trieste.
*All links in every article open on a new page, so you will stay on this page while looking around!
In case you know already which type of restaurant you are looking for, here are all the sections in this list:
TRIESTE TRAVEL TIPS
Before diving into my Trieste restaurants' guide, here are a few quick tips you will need before visiting Trieste:
Make sure to research which are the local dishes in Trieste
Remember to plan the activities and tours in Trieste in advance
If you have a spare day, plan a day trip from Trieste
Don't forget to purchase some of the best local souvenirs from Trieste
If you love wine, don't forget to check out the Prosecco Experience in Trieste
Need help planning? Read how to plan your trip to Trieste!
The Best Restaurants in Trieste, Italy!
LET’S DIVE RIGHT IN...
Budget-friendly options for food lovers
Even if you are traveling on a budget, you can maintain the quality of your dining experience. Trieste offers a range of budget-friendly options for food lovers.
We call them Trattoria and Hosteria, where to stop for a glass of wine and a little bite or for a traditional lunch and dinner without breaking the bank.
1. Buffet Clai
Buffet Clai is one of the few typical Trieste restaurants that continues to respect the tradition of buffets.
The staff is very kind, and the dishes are superb, from the creamed cod (called Baccala mantecato, which I love; you should try it) or sea bass appetizers.
The mixed starter will fill you up as much as the other courses; the first courses are massive. The dishes in the buffet window are also delicious, a mix of vegetables, meatballs, and fish, all breaded and deep-fried.
You can also order takeaway and then go to the bankside to enjoy your lunch looking at the sea.
Here, you can stop for a coffee with a slice of freshly baked cake, a glass of wine with a tasty deep-fried meatball (this is one of the typical afternoon breaks for locals or a local Aperitivo), or have lunch in the always crowded small room (remember, when a food place is always crowded with locals, it means the food is very good).
Address: Via Ugo Foscolo 4
Opening Time: see here.
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2. Buffet L'Approdo
L'Approdo is another small place to eat typical food and one of the cheap places to eat in Trieste. Here you can start by having an aperitivo with a good glass of wine and a tartina (slice of bread with a local topping, like meat or fish) and then have lunch or dinner.
The food here is delicious, from the famous "piatto misto di Caldia" (mix of boiled pork meat), potato dumplings with goulash, pasta with oxtail, lasagna, Jota soup, and many many more local dishes.
This is also a good place to stop for a sandwich with local ham and a glass of wine (this can be a fast and cheap lunch).
Special diets: Vegetarian Friendly
Address: Viale Carducci 34
Opening Time: see here.
Travel Tip: As soon as you book your next adventure, buy good travel insurance in case you need to "unfortunately" delay, extend, or cancel your trip. I recommend VisitorsCoverage for short trips and SafetyWing to stay longer than a month.
3. Trattoria Mara
At Trattoria Mara, you will find many typical Trieste dishes and also something from the rest of the Region. It is one of the most affordable places to eat in Trieste.
Potato dumplings with goulash, polenta, pasta, soups, and homemade desserts will teach you a lot about Trieste's history.
The owner is a lovely lady who will make you feel like a regular guest, so sit down, order a bit of everything, and enjoy Trieste in one of its best ways, through its food.
Special diets: Vegetarian Friendly, Gluten Free Options
Address: Via Vittoria Colonna 5.
Opening Time: see here.
European Travel Alert!
If you don't have a Europe passport, from November 2023, you must complete an ETIAS visa waiver form before your trip and pay the €7 ($7.25) fees. This easy-to-complete form should give you instant approval, but it's recommended that travelers plan and submit their documents a few weeks in advance of their departure date.
4. Hostaria G. Strehler
This old Hostaria offers traditional dishes in a friendly atmosphere. One of the best places in Trieste to experience the city through its food. Here you can enjoy local cold cuts, potato dumplings with goulash, homemade pasta, risotto, and much more.
Special diets: Vegetarian Friendly, Gluten Free Options
Address: Via Giorgio Strehler 5/a.
Opening time: see here.
Do you want to see everything Trieste has to offer and save money?
Check all the activities and tours available. You won't regret it!
5. Buffet da Gildo
Buffet da Gildo is one of the most famous Buffet in Trieste. The perfect place to eat local food without breaking the bank. Here you can find many small bites (or as tourists call them, the local Trieste street food), like the unmissable "crocchette" made with potatoes and vegetables, potatoes and cheese, potatoes and tuna, and many others.
They also have many dishes for lunch and dinner, like pasta, cold cuts, sausages, mixed boiled pork (piatto misto di caldaia), potato dumplings with different sauces, and much more.
Address: via Valdirivo 20
Opening Time: see here.
The best pizza places in Trieste
A trip to Italy is not complete without eating a delicious pizza, and here are the best Pizzerie (plural of pizzeria - pizza place) to enjoy a delicious Italian-style pizza in Trieste. Learn where to eat pizza in Trieste and book your table today!
6. Pizzeria Casa Peperino
Let's eat some delicious pizza in Trieste at Pizzeria Casa Peperino. They also cook fish and meat, but you won't be able to resist when you see what's on the pizza menu. To try the MOrtadella and Pistacchio DOP. A delicacy!
Special diets: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Address: Via del Coroneo 19/c
7. Ristorante Pizzeria Bianco
Ristorante Pizzeria Bianco is not only a Pizzeria but also a restaurant where to eat delicious pasta dishes. I added it to the Pizza section because of their absolutely amazing pizza. You must try the pizza with salsiccia and friarielli, so good you will go back the day after!
Special diets: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Address: Via Generale Armando Diaz 2
8. Al Civico 6
Al Civicosei is one of the top pizzeria in trieste city center. They also have some meat and fish options, but I highly recommend you try their pizza. They also won the Pizza Award Italia 2019; what else can I add to convince you to eat their pizza?
Special diets: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Address: via del Toro 6
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9. Pizzeria La Napa
One of the oldest pizzeria in Trieste opened in 1968, you can't miss eating their pizza when visiting Trieste. Their last creation is the pizza with ricotta-filled crust, unmissable if you love cheese like me!
Special diets: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options
Address: Via Antonio Caccia 3
Special diets restaurants
10. Al Melograno
Al Melograno Restaurants, you can find food for all types of dietary restrictions. From gluten-free options to dairy-free, vegetarian and vegan!
They have pasta, pizza, fish, and anything else you wish to eat during your stay in Trieste!
I'm currently suffering from SIBO (I'm getting help from a specialist to get rid of it because I love food too much and cannot imagine my life without it), and I went there with a friend of mine who is dairy and gluten intolerant, and we found so many delicious dishes to eat.
We weren't bloated at all at the end of our dinner, so it became one of our favorite restaurants in Trieste.
Address: Via di Cavana 14
The top restaurants in Trieste for seafood lovers
Trieste's location on the Adriatic Sea makes it a paradise for seafood lovers.
11. Trattoria Nero di Seppia
This family-run Trattoria is one of the best restaurants in Trieste, Italy. where you will find delicious fish fresh from the sea. You are in a seaside city, so why not enjoy what Trieste offers?
The menu offers a bit of everything, from mixed starters (so you can try more kinds of fish) to delicious first courses (ask your travel mate to share some different plates if you want to try more than one dish) and very well presented and cooked second courses.
Trust me. You will be delighted and satisfied after lunch or dinner here. If you would love to learn how to cook Trieste local dishes, you should attend a Pasta and Tiramisu class in Trieste.
Special diets: Vegetarian Friendly, Gluten Free Options
Address: Via Luigi Cadorna 23.
Travel tip: book it in advance.
12. Joia Restaurant & Lounge
The Joia Restaurant is a very nice place where to enjoy a delicious meal or stop for a drink. It's both a restaurant and lounge bar, so you can choose an aperitivo and a dinner, all paired with a good Italian wine. (if you love Italian wine, check out the Prosecco’s Roots & the Karst Region from Trieste).
It offers both meat and fish, but I think the fish is what you should choose. Some of their dishes also won awards as one the best dishes in a local competition, so give it a try!
Special diets: Vegetarian Friendly, Gluten Free Options
Address: Riva Tommaso Gulli 4/a
Do you want to see everything Trieste has to offer and save money?
Check all the activities and tours available. You won't regret it!
13. Ristorante alla Sorgente
Ristorante alla Sorgente is a pretty famous restaurant. Many famous Italian actors dined there, thanks to Trieste's popularity as a perfect scene for many Italian movies and series.
Ristorante alla sorgente is one of the places where to eat pasta in Trieste paired with local wines!
They make many typical Italian fish dishes, and I am more than sure that you will love this place, so be very hungry to have the chance to try as many delicious dishes as possible.
Special diets: Vegetarian Friendly, Gluten Free Options
Address: Via della Sorgente 2
Travel tip: Book in advance.
Love to taste the best wines in the region?
Check out the Wine tasting in the Collio wine area with Trieste's guided tour!
14. Osteria ai Maestri
The Osteria ai Maestri is one of the best places to eat in Trieste, Italy. Here you will enjoy delicious local seafood. From grilled canestrelli (in the picture above) to scampi alla buzara (pasta with crayfish sauce), you will leave this restaurant fully satisfied,
Special diets: Gluten-Free Options
Address: Via della Sorgente 6
Travel Tip: If you arrive in Trieste too early for your check-in or your departure time is too many hours after your check-out, and you need a place to store your luggage, check out Radical Storage in Trieste, a website that shows you all the safe places to keep your bags while still exploring Trieste.
15. Osteria Istriano
Osteria Istriano is a seafood restaurant on the Trieste waterfront. It was opened by my grandfather's cousin, and it is a great place to eat local fish dishes.
From fritto misto (mixed fried fish) to pasta with sting ray, baccala mantecato (cream cod absolutely to try), and many more Trieste local dishes.
They also have meat dishes, but I highly recommend eating fish.
Special diets: Gluten Free Options
Address: Riva Grumula 6
The top restaurants in Trieste for meat lovers
Trieste's locals love a good steak, so there are many restaurants where you can enjoy a freshly made steak tartare, a delicious beef filet, or any other kind of meat you can think of.
16. Buffet da Pepi
Buffet da Pepi is one of the most famous buffets in Trieste.
Here you can find the typical "piatto misto di caldia", a mix of boiled pork meat with cren (horseradish) and mustard.
I didn't add this restaurant to the budget section because sandwiches are cheap, but if you opt for the mixed meat plate to eat in, plus beer and one side, it is not cheap at all, but it is worth it.
I usually go there for lunch with my father when I arrive in Trieste.
Address: Via della Cassa di Risparmio 3.
17. Bracerie Venete
At the Bracerie Venete, you can enjoy meat like the Fassona Piemontese, the Bavarian Pezzata Rossa, the Rubia Gallega, the Charra from Spain, the Golden White from Austria and Kobe meat from Japan. They recently added meat from Australia and Africa.
Unmissable to try the Alba Truffle and Foie Gras, appetizers based on raw meat, and other specialties such as the tasty Frog Leg.
Special diets: Gluten Free Options
Address: Via del Veltro 1.
18. Baracca e Burattini
Baracca e Burattini is a restaurant where you can taste many unique dishes. Here you can find both meat and fish so everyone will be happy and satisfied. I had only meat when I dined there, and everything I ate was very good.
They also have the pasta "fusi" that I advise in the "41 Delicious Food to Eat in Trieste" article.
Special diets: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Address: Via Torre Bianca 19.
Looking for a cooking class in Trieste?
Then I've found one you will surely love. A dining experience at a local's home in Trieste with show cooking. Check it out and book it before it gets sold out!
19. Antica Trattoria da Suban
Antica Trattoria da Suban is probably the best restaurant in Trieste to have a delicious meat-based dining experience.
It is not located in the city center, you can either get a taxi or catch a bus to get there, but I can guarantee you, you won't be disappointed.
I went there many times because my uncle loved to celebrate his birthday in their private room (yes, they also have a private room for family dinners).
They also have vegetarian and gluten-free options.
Special diets: Vegetarian Friendly, Gluten Free Options
Address: via Emilio Comici 2/d
Fine dining experiences in Trieste
If you want to indulge in a luxurious dining experience, Trieste has a range of fine dining establishments.
20. Ristorante al Bagatto
Al Bagatto is a gourmet restaurant expert in fish specialties.
The wine list offers a beautiful selection of both territorial and regional Italian wines.
Excellent care of the selection of ingredients, respect for the environment, and choice of products based on seasonality are the key points of the restaurant.
Situated in the city center, I advise you to take a long walk in the area and enjoy Trieste's beautiful scenery.
Special diets: Vegetarian Friendly, Gluten Free Options
Address: Via Luigi Cadorna 7
Always wanted to learn how to make homemade pasta?
Then the time has come! Check out this Private Pasta-Making Class at a Cesarina's Home with tasting in Trieste to learn all the secrets of pasta making!
21. Savoy restaurant by Eataly
At the Savoy Restaurant, everything is expertly prepared with top-shelf local ingredients. The menu has a lot of variety, and the food is well-presented.
Here you will find only fresh and delicious Italian cuisine, so if you are looking for a nice and fancy place to have a delicious dinner, this is the place.
Special diets: Vegetarian Friendly
Address: Via del Mandracchio 4, inside Hotel Savoia Excelsior Palace.
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22. Trattoria ai Fiori
Located in the heart of Trieste's old town, this is one of Trieste's most renowned fine-dining restaurants. The perfect place for a special occasion. Try the raw fish selection (you are in a seaside town, so the fish is freshly caught overnight).
Special diets: Vegetarian Friendly, Gluten Free Options
Address: Piazza Attilio Ortis 7.
Restaurants with stunning views in Trieste
Trieste's breathtaking views make dining even more memorable, and several restaurants offer stunning vistas.
23. Harry's Restaurant
Harry's restaurant is located inside the famous Grand Hotel Duchi d'Aosta, a scenic spot in Trieste, Piazza Unità d'Italia. It was opened in 1972 by Arrigo Cipriani of the famous Harry's Bar in Venice.
Harry's managed to maintain its appeal and unique vibe over time, making it the perfect place for a lunch or a romantic dinner.
Special diets: Vegetarian Friendly
Address: Piazza Unità d'Italia
Book in advance.
Do you want to see everything Trieste has to offer and save money?
Check all the activities and tours available. You won't regret it!
24. La Vecia Maniera
La Vecia maniera is a trattoria in Ponterosso, along the grand canal in Trieste. Here you can have a delicious lunch or dinner with the canal view.
You can find delicious pasta dishes on the menu, grilled meat with local side dishes like "patate in tecia"(pan-fried boiled potatoes with pancetta, onions, and black pepper), gnocchi, and much more.
The perfect place to enjoy Trieste's local food with a marvelous view.
Address: via Vincenzo Bellini 5,
25. Trattoria al Faro
Trattoria al Faro is located a little bit locate Trieste city center. You can easily reach it by bus or by taxi. The view from their terrace is beautiful, you can see the whole Trieste Gulf.
It is a great place to have lunch during the famous Barcolana sailing regatta, so you can see all the boats sailing away while enjoying a delicious seafood-based lunch.
Special diets: Vegetarian Friendly, Gluten Free Options
Address: Scala Giuseppe Sforzi 2
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26. 7th Rooftop Hotello
You can't miss this place if you are looking for a restaurant in Trieste with a fabulous view from a rooftop terrace with live music. They serve delicious seafood dishes, but if you call them in advance, they can prepare some vegan and vegetarian options.
Address: Via Valdirivo
Conclusion: Exploring Trieste's culinary delights
Trieste's culinary scene is a true delight for food lovers, offering various options to satisfy every palate.
This city has everything from traditional Italian trattorias to upscale fine dining establishments. Whether you're craving pasta, pizza, seafood, or vegetarian options, there's a restaurant in Trieste that will exceed your expectations.
As you explore the top restaurants in Trieste, be prepared to embark on a gastronomic adventure like no other. Immerse yourself in the rich flavors of the region and indulge in dishes made with love and passion.
Whether you're visiting for a romantic getaway or a culinary exploration with friends, Trieste's dining scene will leave you craving more.
So, pack your bags and prepare to embark on a culinary journey through the top restaurants in Trieste. Your taste buds will thank you!
More Trieste travel resources:
Learn all the tips & info before visiting Trieste by checking my “The Most Complete Guide to Trieste“ as well as these popular articles:
Your super-organized travel blogger
Xoxo Valentina
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