Osteria Sottoriva

Osteria Sottoriva is a characterful traditional osteria set beneath the arcaded Via Sottoriva, one of the last surviving medieval porticoed streets in Verona, running close to the Adige river just below the Ponte Nuovo. The covered arcade gives the place its name and its appeal: a handful of tables sit out under the old stone arches, an atmospheric spot for lunch or a glass of wine, while the snug interior is a cosy refuge in cooler months. The kitchen turns out generous, unfussy plates of Veronese home cooking. Emblematic regional dishes anchor the menu, including pastissada de caval (horse meat braised slowly with Amarone and spices), bigoli with duck ragù or sardines, risotto all'Amarone, and seasonal bollito with pearà, the city's signature bread-and-marrow sauce. Portions are hearty and prices stay in the everyday range, drawing a loyal local crowd alongside curious visitors. The osteria also functions as a wine bar, with a solid by-the-glass selection of Valpolicella, Amarone, Soave and other Veneto wines that suit the robust food. The atmosphere is relaxed and convivial, with no dress code and a gently buzzy soundtrack of conversation under the arches. Because the outdoor tables under the portico are limited and prized, especially on warm evenings, arriving early or booking ahead is wise; the interior absorbs more diners. Sottoriva is open through the week with a Sunday closure and reduced Saturday hours, so checking the schedule before visiting is sensible. For travellers wanting authentic Veronese cuisine in a genuinely historic setting away from the busier piazzas, it is one of the city's most atmospheric choices.