DINING ON A BUDGET IN TRIESTE

Trieste, a coastal gem in northeastern Italy, offers a rich mix of Italian, Slavic, and Austro-Hungarian influences, which is reflected in its diverse culinary scene. But while fine dining might be expensive in this beautiful city, there are still plenty of delicious and affordable ways to explore Trieste’s flavors without emptying your wallet. Whether you’re craving hearty local dishes or simply enjoying a coffee in a charming cafe, here are some of the best budget-friendly dining options in Trieste.


Pizzeria La Rotonda
Food Type: Pizza
Average Meal Price: €8–€12
Address: Via San Cilino, 17
How to Get There: From Piazza Unità d’Italia, take bus number 30 and get off at “San Cilino” stop.
If you’re craving pizza, Pizzeria La Rotonda offers a variety of delicious pies at great prices. You can find traditional Neapolitan-style pizza or regional varieties like pizza con prosciutto crudo or pizza triestina. A perfect stop for a tasty, filling meal that won’t cost you a fortune.

Antica Trattoria Suban
Food Type: Traditional Triestine Cuisine
Average Meal Price: €10–€15
Address: Via delle Vele, 6
How to Get There: From the historic city center, take bus number 24 and get off at “Vele” stop.
A hidden gem tucked in the heart of Trieste, Antica Trattoria Suban serves affordable local specialties, including hearty dishes like Jota (sauerkraut soup) and Goulash alla Triestina. Enjoy the city’s traditional flavors in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Baracca e Burattini
Food Type: Triestine Street Food, Sandwiches
Average Meal Price: €4–€8
Address: Via Giuseppe Mazzini, 9
How to Get There: A short walk from Piazza Unità d’Italia.
For a quick bite, head to Baracca e Burattini, where you can indulge in delicious street food, such as Ćevapčići or a freshly made sandwich with local cold cuts. Ideal for travelers looking to grab something cheap and satisfying between sightseeing.

Il Buffet di Miky
Food Type: Seafood and Triestine Snacks
Average Meal Price: €5–€15
Address: Via delle Sette Fontane, 10
How to Get There: From the train station, take bus number 26 to “Sette Fontane.”
For a quick and affordable seafood experience, Il Buffet di Miky offers fresh seafood, including fish fritters, anchovies, and sardines, all at a great price. It’s the perfect place for a low-cost yet authentic Triestine seafood snack.

Gastronomia F.lli Giacomini
Food Type: Deli, Local Specialties
Average Meal Price: €6–€12
Address: Via Tigor, 4
How to Get There: A 10-minute walk from Piazza Unità d’Italia.
A great spot to grab a quick meal or picnic supplies, this local deli offers freshly made Triestine favorites such as presnitz and putizza (rich pastries filled with nuts and fruits) and hearty sandwiches with cured meats. Great for an affordable taste of local snacks on the go.

Trattoria da Giovanni
Food Type: Triestine and Italian Classics
Average Meal Price: €12–€18
Address: Via S. Francesco, 36
How to Get There: From the city center, take bus number 26 or walk about 15 minutes.
This family-run trattoria offers classic Triestine dishes, including calandraca (a savory stew) and risotto al nero di seppia (squid ink risotto), all at affordable prices. It’s an excellent option for those looking to enjoy local flavors without breaking the bank.

Trattoria alla Stazione
Food Type: Italian, Triestine Specialties
Average Meal Price: €8–€14
Address: Via della Ferrovia, 13
How to Get There: A short walk from Trieste’s central station.
For a homey, authentic meal, Trattoria alla Stazione offers traditional Triestine fare like gulasch and Jota, as well as pasta dishes and simple Italian classics. It’s perfect for a budget-friendly and hearty meal.

Pasticceria Pirona
Food Type: Pastries, Desserts
Average Meal Price: €3–€7
Address: Via San Nicolò, 8
How to Get There: A short walk from Piazza Unità d’Italia.
A classic stop for budget-friendly sweets, Pasticceria Pirona is famous for its putizza (a traditional Triestine pastry) and other pastries at very reasonable prices. Ideal for a light dessert or to enjoy with an espresso in a traditional setting.

La Gastronomia Triestina
Food Type: Triestine Fast Food
Average Meal Price: €6–€10
Address: Via dei Moreri, 3
How to Get There: Walk from the central piazza to this tucked-away spot, a hidden culinary treasure.
For those seeking a quick, affordable bite in a casual setting, La Gastronomia Triestina offers classic sandwiches and dishes like gnocchi with local meats, providing an authentic experience at a reasonable price.

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