Restaurant Reviews
We have actually eaten at all of the following restaurants. Our rating system is the familiar
four star system. There are probably thousands of restaurants in Venice, and none of them
cheap. For that reason, it is not enough that a restaurant have good food or good service -
it has to have both. Click on the stars ratings to read a detailed review.
Al Giardinetto - Two Stars. Although the food was decent, the fundamental failings of the
restaurant account for the two-star rating. The bread was stale, the service was poor, the
wine terrible and, worst of all, they brought my appetizer after they brought the main course.
Note that there are several restaurants in Venice with the word "Giardinetto" in the name.
This one is located on the street that at one end is called Fondamenta Donna Onesta, and
at the other end (by the bridge) is called Fondamenta D. Forner, and is in the vicinity of the
Frari church. It is recognized by the caged birds, and the building next to it has a large red
sign that says "Tintoretto."
Ristorante Ribo' - Three and a half Stars. The service was excellent, the food was world
class, and the price is reasonable.
La Piscina - Four Stars This restaurant is located on the Zatterre where it is always sunny.
They have a wonderful outside deck right on the water, the service is perfect (attentive,
responsive and friendly), the wine by the glass is delicious, the timing between courses is
right on, and the food is excellent, right down to the bread.
Alla Madonna - Two Stars. We both wanted this to be four stars, as we had heard so
much good about it. But the service is hurried (although attentive), and the food appeared
to be not cooked to order, but done a long time in advance. And Karen's meal had a nice
long hair in it. There are better places to go. Located near the Rialto, and identified by its
bright yellow sign. Closed on Wednesday.
Ristoteca Oniga - Three and a half Stars. This little "Ristoteca" in Campo San Barnaba
was a great surprise for us. The service is well-timed and not hurried, the food was
delicious, and the wine excellent, all at a reasonable price. Campo San Barbaba, Dorsoduro
2852, Tel: +39 041 522 4410, info@oniga.it; www.oniga.it.Closed on Tuesday.
Pane Vino e San Daniele - Three Stars. This reastaurant, which serves only meat and
cheese dishes, is tucked away in the large campo situated between the churches San
Raffaele and San Sebastiano in Dorsoduro. The service is responsive and friendly, the
wine good, and the menu changes frequently. Campo dell'Angelo Raffaele, 1722
Dorsoduro, Tel: +39 041 523 7456, info@panevinoesandaniele.net;
www.panevinoesandaniele.net; Closed on Wednesday.