Trattoria Da Romano: Burano’s Best Kept Secret

When you step inside Trattoria Da Romano, you’re not just entering a dining room, you’re walking into four generations of Italian family heritage. Lea, the current steward of this remarkable place, invites you in to explore the flavors of traditional Venetian cuisine and the stories and art that fill every corner of her home.

A restaurant built on art and compassion

The origins of Trattoria Da Romano date back to a time when Burano was a modest fishing community, and locals often struggled to make ends meet. Lea’s great-grandfather and great-grandmother founded the restaurant with a unique mission: to provide a meal and shelter to those in need, regardless of their ability to pay. Instead of money, guests were invited to leave a painting as payment, a simple exchange that transformed the restaurant into an evolving art gallery. What started as a handful of paintings quickly grew into an extensive collection that now covers the walls, telling stories of countless visitors and artists over the decades.

The artistic guestbook

One of the most fascinating treasures of Trattoria Da Romano is the guestbook—a collection of 26 volumes filled with signatures, sketches, and personal notes from some of history’s most iconic figures. Imagine pages signed by the likes of Ernest Hemingway, Charlie Chaplin, and Keith Richards, each leaving their mark in their own unique way. “If you want to leave a signature, something you can do it here in this book,” Lea shares, emphasizing the importance of this tradition that connects generations of visitors.

Art and food: A Venetian love affair

In Venice, art and food are inseparable pleasures, and Trattoria Da Romano embodies this union perfectly. Lea describes this harmony as a “jackpot,” when art and food come together, the experience becomes unforgettable. The menu reflects the culinary heritage of the Veneto region, featuring fresh seafood from the lagoon, homemade pastas, and risottos that have earned praise from culinary legends like Anthony Bourdain. Every dish tells a story, just like the paintings that cover the walls.

A place for everyone

Despite its deep roots in local tradition, Trattoria Da Romano is not just a “place for locals.” Lea proudly explains that the restaurant has always been a meeting place for people from all walks of life and corners of the globe. It’s a place where cultures converge, stories are shared, and friendships are forged over a shared love of art and food.

Burano itself is a jewel in the Venetian lagoon, famous for its brightly colored houses, lace-making tradition, and tranquil canals. The island’s charm is amplified by places like Trattoria Da Romano, where history and culture are not just observed but lived.

Venice’s rich rowing heritage also adds to the cultural tapestry of the area. Gondolas and traditional rowing boats have been the lifeblood of the city for centuries, connecting islands and neighborhoods. The art of rowing is deeply embedded in Venetian identity, celebrated through festivals like the Regata Storica, where rowers in traditional dress race along the Grand Canal.

Why you should visit Trattoria Da Romano on your Venice trip

Traveling to Venice is an experience filled with iconic sights, from St. Mark’s Basilica to the Rialto Bridge. But to truly connect with the soul of the region, you need to venture beyond the tourist paths and discover places like Trattoria Da Romano.

• Authentic experience: Enjoy traditional Venetian dishes prepared with love and heritage.

• Living history: Immerse yourself in a family story that spans four generations and countless visitors.

• Artistic atmosphere: Surround yourself with original artworks and signed guestbooks from legendary creatives.

• Warm hospitality: Feel like part of the family in a place where everyone is welcome. Island charm: Explore Burano’s colorful streets and peaceful canals before or after your meal.

Lea’s invitation is clear: “We want this to be, for at least a few hours, also your home.” And once you’ve experienced Trattoria Da Romano, it’s hard not to feel that you’ve found a second home in the heart of the Venetian lagoon.

So next time you find yourself in Venice, take the ferry to Burano. Follow the colorful streets to Trattoria Da Romano, and let Lea and her family welcome you to a hidden gem where every meal is a celebration of art, history, and the enduring spirit of Venice.