Most visitors to Verona have one thing on their mind: Shakespeare’s tale of star-crossed lovers. But beyond the romance, there’s a fabulous food scene waiting to woo you. The city’s culinary identity spans everything from local trattorias serving up nonna-approved recipes to Michelin-starred eateries giving their own contemporary take on the classics. Here’s our guide to the top restaurants to try…

Re Teodorico

If views are the clincher for the best restaurant in the city, Re Teodorico is certainly up there. In the summer, the expansive terrace calls for al fresco dining. Rabbit ravioli? Octopus ragout? Beef tartare pizza? There’s no shortage of creativity here. Opt for the Amarone risotto and enjoy two of the Veneto region’s gastronomic treasures.

Ristorante Il Desco

A fan of fine dining? Ristorante Il Desco was awarded its Michelin star in 1985 and has held on to it ever since. The setting is charming, housed in a centuries-old palazzo, close to Casa di Giulietta. Dishes are deceptively simple, using no more than three ingredients. Choose the tasting menu and prepare to be blown away by the mouth-watering mastery of chef Matteo Rizzo.

12 Apostoli

Let one of the oldest restaurants in the city tempt you with its authentic flavours and rustic décor. It’s been run by the same family since 1921, so you can be sure you’re in good hands. Gooey cheese croquettes and the Jerusalem artichoke foam are just two of the must-eats.

Locanda 4 Cuochi

At this trendy restaurant, good things come in fours. A quartet of chefs are on hand to dish up delights like creamy risotto with saffron and suckling pig. It’s also the number of pencils left on the table, inviting you to draw, doodle or leave a message about your meal. The menu changes every two months, giving you an excuse to visit more than once!

Il Cenacolo

A staple on Verona’s food scene since 1980, Il Cenacolo impresses on all fronts. Let’s start with the location, a palace in the historic centre, just steps from the ancient amphitheatre. Try signature plates like tortellini di Valeggio or order a meat dish and watch as it’s cooked on the fireplace in front of you. A glass of vino from the well-stocked cellar is the perfect accompaniment.

L'Evangelista Ristorante & Enoteca

Tucked away in a quiet alleyway overlooking Piazza Bra, this restaurant is a must-visit. The open kitchen means you can watch the chefs at work while you wait. The seaside comes to Verona courtesy of the fish tasting menu, which includes marinated mackerel and lime-drizzled cuttlefish. There’s also a vegan tasting menu and an à la carte offering.

Osteria La Fontanina

Welcome to another restaurant that has been wowing for decades. The Tapparini family have been at the helm of Osteria La Fontanina since the 1980s, retaining its traditional décor and intimate feel. The menu is fired by fabulous local produce and super-fresh ingredients that let the Veneto flavours sing. The homemade ravioli stuffed with Grana Padano cheese and black truffle is sure to elicit a satisfied ‘yum’.

Ziga Bistrò

A vegetarian venue which is ready and waiting to satisfy any plant-based palate? Take a bow Ziga Bistrò. The varied menu will hit the spot whether you’re after brunch, lunch or dinner. Each dish packs a delicious punch, from pumpkin crêpes with buffalo mozzarella to turnip risotto flavoured with herbs from the restaurant’s own garden.