La Cantina boasts of a charming and shaded patio dining experience where guests are seated on sleek brown chairs and get views of the busy streetscape. Its menu boasts of more than 30 varieties of wine as well as craft beer from a local brewery. The drinks are accompanied by a range of cicchetti (small snacks), especially seafood items. Guests can enjoy dishes made from sea bass, burnt tuna, duck breast, minced salmon, raw fish and marinated beef. Do not miss their oyster trays and Crostini platters, both of which complement their wines perfectly.
Owned by Roberto Meneghetti, Al Bacco is located close to the channel of Rio di San Girolamo. The place specializes in fresh seafood and fishes, and also is known for using seasonal locally produced ingredients. In addition to food they have a small but diverse selection of Italian wine and beer, which perfectly blends with your choice of food. Some of their specials include sauteed mussels and clams, spaghetti cliff, seafood risotto, tiramisu, inverted chocolate and pear, patrizia, lasagna and lots more. The place is fairly small with just a few number of tables, thus booking is advisable.
This is one of the many bars in Campo Santa Margherita, right in the heart of the university area and within walking distance of Cà Foscari and Cà Rezzonico. Particularly popular with the student crowds, tables are lined up outside in summer when the bar is open all day. The bar meals on offer include a good selection of panini, sandwiches and cicchetti (snacks), to enjoy with your ombra (glass of wine) or your beer. There is a good selection of wines, especially local varieties. If you prefer, there is coffee, brioche and cake.Crowded with students, tables outdoors during the summer months; open every day, offers games; at sunset, a lovely spot to spend a Venetian evening (especially in summer) when students are on holiday; however, that is when the tourists arrive. Speedy service: sandwiches, cicchetti to accompany a glass of wine or beer. Very good selection of sandwiches, for every taste; don't miss out on the wines, particularly local brands. Also offers coffee, brioche and desserts.
If you like crowds this is the bar for you. It can be found in the thriving Campo Santa Margherita, which is full of people and noise during lunch and dinnertime. In this bar you can have a drink, or have a snack to fill up for the rest of the day. It is quite cheap compared with average Venetian prices so top up that drink. It is quite big by Venetian standards and is usually filled with students and tourists. It is a nice place to come for lunch or to drink an aperitif. The service is good. As well as the snacks, which you can eat with your aperitif, such as, grilled vegetables, sandwiches, squid, octopus salad etc., you can also choose from various pizzas and spaghetti dishes. There is a good range of local wines, and beer.
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.
Arguably the best place for gelato in the city, Paolin has been a favorite with youths as well as grown ups for a long time. Though broadly put under a gelateria tag, the café actually has really good gelato to be enjoyed. The viscous mixture of fruits retains the taste that normal gelato just cannot contain. Boasting a modest 12 flavors only, the shop still manages to keep its customers happy. Grab a seat outside and enjoy the treat. The kids will love it too.