Top 5 Trieste Food & Drink Spots: A Local’s Guide

Trieste, you know, is really a pretty cool city, sorta tucked away in the northeastern part of Italy. It’s almost like it doesn’t quite feel completely Italian, and that is probably because of its interesting history, a history that’s sort of linked to Central Europe. Very much like the city’s vibe, the food scene shows off that mix, a mix of Italian, Slavic, and Mitteleuropean flavors, that’s what makes it unique. The cafe culture runs very deep here; there are historic spots where, as a matter of fact, famous writers and thinkers used to hang out, all the way to comfy trattorias serving up dishes using recipes passed down through generations. Come along as we discover five spots you really should experience when you are looking for the tastes of Trieste!

1. Caffè San Marco: A Literary Landmark

Caffè San Marco, right, it isn’t just another cafe, it’s literally a slice of history. Opened way back in 1914, that is a time when Trieste was still part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. This place, too it’s almost a haven for intellectuals and artists, and it became pretty well known as a meeting point for folks plotting against the Austrians during World War I. I mean, can you believe that? Stepping inside, as a matter of fact, is really like going back in time; there’s the original decor, complete with old-school chandeliers and cozy velvet seating. You’ll find it on Via Battisti, and it is basically where you wanna go if you’re looking for a proper taste of Trieste’s cafe culture.

Now, what should you get, you know? Obviously, you should try their coffee; it is strong and rich and brewed just the way it ought to be. That said, though, don’t miss out on the pastries, that is probably because they are freshly baked every single day. What I personally suggest is trying the “Presnitz”, which is just a traditional pastry made with dried fruit, walnuts, and spices. So good! Really, more or less, Caffè San Marco is definitely the spot if you want to sit, maybe sip your coffee, have some sweet stuff and just kinda soak in the amazing vibe.

Read our full review: Caffè San Marco Trieste Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Check Availability)

2. Buffet da Pepi: A Porchetta Paradise

Looking for something really filling and pretty classic in Trieste? You gotta visit Buffet da Pepi, right? Very centrally located on Via Cassa di Risparmio. This place is somewhat famous, more or less, for its “porchetta”, which, as a matter of fact, is roasted pork. Don’t think this is some regular pork joint, because, you see, Pepi’s has really been serving up this deliciousness since 1898. What makes it what it is, in a way, it’s this super old-school, no-frills kinda place. It gets so packed during lunch that everyone just stands outside eating; really the atmosphere is lively and kinda adds to the overall appeal.

You simply have to order the porchetta sandwich. You can see them slice the pork right in front of you, and that, in effect, just shows how fresh it is. Add some mustard, or even some horseradish, on your sandwich for that added zing; in other words, trust me, it kicks it up a notch! They have boiled meats and sausages on the menu, too, though, anyway, it is pretty difficult to leave without trying their signature item, porchetta. This isn’t fancy dining, no. It’s just good, you know, solid Triestine cuisine that is full of taste.

Read our full review: Buffet da Pepi Trieste Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Check Availability)

3. Trattoria Marise: A Seafood Sensation

Alright, if you are into seafood, I mean if you’re a really huge seafood lover, then you really need to make a beeline to Trattoria Marise. You can find it, still, tucked away from the main drag on Via Claudio, so maybe that’s why a lot of tourists usually just miss it. You could be deceived, right? It looks pretty humble from the outside, you know. Very, very trust me: it offers some seriously outstanding seafood dishes, kinda emphasizing what the Adriatic Sea has to offer.

Start off with their mixed seafood appetizer; the assortment includes all fresh catches, such as mussels, clams, and octopus. In the pasta department, very try their seafood risotto, too; each mouthful, just a burst of flavors that are both rich and delicate. It is almost like the restaurant, itself, has this really cozy, family type feeling, just enhancing the dining experience. Trattoria Marise is a fantastic choice when you want to get a sample of just straight up, delicious seafood away from the tourist spots.

Read our full review: Trattoria Marise Trieste Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Check Availability)

4. Siora Rosa: Gelato Heaven

Gelato is a must when in Italy. This, as a matter of fact, includes Trieste! And, for some truly excellent gelato, then you should try Siora Rosa, so it’s right in the heart of the city on Via di Cavana. Siora Rosa kinda differs in that they simply use fresh, all natural ingredients to produce all the delicious flavors. Is that not impressive? What really sets this place apart from other gelato places, really, they offer, in effect, a unique selection of local and traditional flavors. So many choices!

Dare to order some of their specialty flavors, because they often use local ingredients such as figs or almonds. Get the crema flavor, the stracciatella, those are some simple yet absolutely great choices. What’s the best bit, though? Having a scoop, sitting near the Piazza Unità d’Italia and enjoying the ocean view! No way is there any place better to chill during those really hot days and treat yourself.

Read our full review: Siora Rosa Trieste Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Check Availability)

5. Osteria ai Mugnai: A Taste of Tradition

Want some true Triestine cuisine? Very check out Osteria ai Mugnai. A bit of a ways from the center, right, on Via San Francesco d’Assisi, though locals tend to frequent this place for the feel of authentic traditional dishes. The inside of the osteria, still, it feels welcoming; a bit rustic, the atmosphere, so it’s exactly the kinda place you go to for a comforting meal. What do they emphasize? Using seasonal ingredients to show off what makes Triestine cuisine what it is!

Begin with the “jota,” I’d suggest, as a matter of fact. That’s a hearty soup filled with beans, sauerkraut, and pork, so it is quite classic around this area. Their gnocchi is outstanding, though, the beef dishes really steal the show. So comforting! And be sure that you try their local wine because that could go pretty well along with every single meal you get. More or less, Osteria ai Mugnai brings tasty dishes with a feeling of old-school Trieste hospitality.

Read our full review: Osteria ai Mugnai Trieste Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Check Availability)