A Hidden Gem for Meat Lovers in Venice
If you're a fan of perfectly grilled meats and are looking for a break from the usual tourist fare in Venice, AI Canottieri is an absolute must-visit. Tucked away from the crowds, this restaurant is a true carnivore’s paradise that delivers an unforgettable dining experience.
From the moment you walk in, the warm and rustic ambiance sets the tone – welcoming, unpretentious, and centered around quality. The service is impeccable: friendly, attentive, and genuinely passionate about the food they serve.
Now, let’s talk about the star of the show – the grilled meat. AI Canottieri takes pride in sourcing high-quality cuts and cooking them to perfection over open flames. Whether it’s a juicy Fiorentina steak, tender ribs, or a mixed grill platter that lets you taste a bit of everything, every bite bursts with flavor. The seasoning is spot on – enough to enhance, never to mask – and the natural smokiness from the grill elevates each dish.
Complement your meal with a glass of local red wine and some of their house-made sides (the roasted potatoes and grilled vegetables are standouts). The portions are generous, and everything feels made with care.
What sets AI Canottieri apart is that it doesn’t try to impress with gimmicks. It lets the food speak for itself – and it speaks volumes. A haven for meat lovers in a city more known for seafood, this place is a delicious surprise.
Highly recommended – go hungry, leave happy, and definitely come...
Read moreYou wanna feel like a local in Venice, go see this restaurant!
I was looking for very venetian place, somewhere where locals would eat because I wanted to experience the very spirit of this city, so I was suggested Osteria ai Canottieri. First of all, very easy to find and yet not a typical touristic site. It is a has an inside area which is all typical, but the marvel was to sit outside and enjoy the view on the lagoon. You could feel the city's natural vibe uninterrupted by crowds of torurists.
I had what they call Tagliata di carne. I am not big on meat but this dish was delicious. They make these big homemade potato chips and some homemade sauces that made the dish perfect!!! And I didn't even had to wait for too long for it like in other restaurants, which is a big plus.
On the wine I went with the owner's suggestion and it didn't dissapoint. Their desserts were on the standard of their menu!!!! (I had pannacotta on the first day and tiramisu the next. (Both made me smile.) The staff was aslo very kind and took the time to exlplain every dish. AND they spoke several languages.
Next day I had to go back and repeat the experience (cost-wise was also propotionate)
I think it was the longest I have ever sit in a restaurant :), Definitely suggest the...
Read moreDuring our stay in Venice, we decided to try this restaurant based on a recommendation from our hotel host. I ordered the steak, which was supposed to be their specialty, asking for it medium rare. Unfortunately, it arrived cold and extremely overcooked , tough and difficult to chew, far from what you would expect even from a well-done steak.
My friend was torn between the lasagne and a local vegetarian dish with artichoke. After a helpful explanation from the waitress about the vegetarian option, she decided to go with that. However, moments later a lasagne was served instead. When we politely pointed out the mistake, another waiter came over looking confused, and rather than correcting the order, they seemed to ignore it. My friend reluctantly kept the lasagne, only to find the bottom completely burnt and the rest dry and mushy, as if it had been reheated from days ago.
Overall, it was a very disappointing experience,especially given the relatively high prices. On top of that, the toilet facilities were poorly maintained and unhygienic. Sadly, we would not recommend this...
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