Tucked away amid the old Cinema Rossini and Rialto Bridge in a by-lane is a charming wine bar. Opened in 1936, Enoteca Al Volto is a shrine for wine lovers and connoisseurs. Touted to be the oldest of its kind in Venice, the over 1000 rotating Italian and foreign wines are not the only thing that will bedazzle you. The vintage wooden accents and its impressive old wine labeled ceiling will definitely spellbind you. You will find classic reds, fruity whites and fizzy ones that are of excellent quality. If you get flummoxed, their expert staff will guide you to the right vino. Savor some tasty Venetian food with your drink to complete your wining and dining experience. They accept payment only by cash
Birraria La Corte is a popular restaurant situated in the heart of San Polo. This no-nonsense pizzeria has a beautiful extended patio where one can enjoy a scrumptious Venetian fare and watch the world pass by. The dining room and garden together seat around one hundred people, hence the place is great for larger parties and families.. The menu includes several types of pizzas as well as regional pasta, vegetable and fish dishes. The wine list contains mainly local varieties but since this place was a former brewer, beer takes pride over wine here. Quite famous among the locals, the place is seen buzzing with patrons throughout the day.
One of three historic cafés on Piazza San Marco, the Grancaffè Quadri has been a part of the Venetian experience since 1638, along with the two other major historic cafés of Venice: Lavena and Florian. The atmosphere alone is worth the trip with luxurious exteriors and interiors, and sometimes, a live orchestra plays in the background. The opulent décor comprises of resplendent Venetian chandeliers and mirrors. Customers can enjoy fine coffee in myriad flavors complemented by exquisite desserts and gourmet snacks. On certain nights between April and October, connoisseurs of music can enjoy the melodies played by renowned musicians.
Al Vapore, the small music venue is located right off the mainland-side of the bridge to Venice in Marghera, which is directly on the other side of the tracks from the train station in Mestre. They very often host international jazz acts and world-class music concerts. Folks from all over the region come to Al Vapore to hear good live music in an intimate setting. It's one of the few places in Mestre where the entire family can enjoy a cultural entertainment and some tasty Italian grub.
Dorsoduro is the university district and, therefore, is packed with students day and night. This is probably one of the main reasons that it is also home to so many pubs, bars, cafés and restaurants. The Café Noir is not your typical Venetian tavern because it is situated near San Apollo and the Scuola Grande di San Rocco. It is also a meeting place for many alternative students and young people. The atmosphere is slightly crowded with music playing in the background. You can sit there for as long as you like with your coffee or drink. It is the ideal place to drop into after walking around the streets and alleys of Venice if you are looking for something out of the norm. The food is not exactly traditional but there is a good selection of bar food such as panini and salads. There is a good selection of wines, beers and themed drinks. You can also have an after-dinner drink or liqueur as well as one of the better-known vodka or gin cocktails.
Do Forni is localted in a quaint and calm district of the city. The clientèle includes political and showbiz personalities, as well as many tourists, who are all drawn to the soft lighting with velour and brocade recalling the Orient Express. The other rooms are reminiscent of the ancient city with its elegant and rustic interiors. The service is excellent, as are the fish dishes; try the sea bass and polenta. The wine list is extensive and complements your meal perfectly and the desserts are delicious.