It was Thanksgiving Day and I was traveling alone in Italy so I wanted to find somewhere special and delicious to celebrate all that I am thankful for while solo. And I managed to find one of the best spots in all of Venice.
Osteria Alla Frasca is cozy and intimate. Maybe not fancy, but elegantly humble. There are 5 tables for 2 (or seating for 10) inside, as well as a few more tables outside. It is tucked away on an out-of-the-way residential block, which adds to its charm and authenticity. It isn't hard to get to though, only a 2 minute walk from the F.Te Nove boat stop. It is on a corner with dim lighting and candles flickering on the tables. The host is happy to greet you and make conversation as well as advise on the menu (which is all in Italian).
I knew I probably wanted the sea bass (€22) when I walked in, so there weren't a lot of decisions O had to make. I was told that eggplant would be replacing the normal mushrooms on the sea bass but I actually prefer that so I readily agreed.
While waiting with some bread and a 1/2L of Prosecco (€10) I was able to chat a bit with the host and examine the posters of seafood on the wall. The wait was just about 15 minutes until my sea bass arrived piping hot and fried to a flaky golden crust. And it was everything I had hoped for. It had just the right amount of fried crunch to go with the melt in your mouth flesh full of flavor. It really was prepared to perfection.
For dessert (because what American doesn't have dessert on Thanksgiving?), I went with my always-favorite, the tiramisu (€6). It was amazing as I'd hoped and was the perfect complement to the fine main course. After, I was suggested a shot of espresso (€2) which I agreed to because it goes so well with tiramisu. Again, just what I didn't realize I needed. Finally, I was surprised to learn that the espresso is accompanied by a complimentary glass of grappa - a strong grape based Italian brandy.
I wasn't actually sure I'd be able to handle the grappa at this point, but he told me I'd be able to walk out into the brisk night without my jacket after, and sure enough he was right. 15 minutes later I walked out in great spirits and without wearing my jacket. If you're in Venice and searching for seafood, Osteria Alla Frasca is one I...
Read moreAfter having seen an amazing review on Condé Nast's "Best Restaurants in Venice" article, I was extremely excited to get an authentic taste of Venetian seafood. However, these expectations were not met in any respect or any category. Firstly, my partner ordered the seafood tagliatelle and my first issue with the dish was that it had no seafood flavor other than the mediocre clams and mussels in it. The sauce was so bland that it tasted like the cooks made it after someone had stolen everything their seasoning cabinet. Secondly, I had the turbo and the fish was so wet, soggy, and slimey that I couldn't get through more than 4 bites. The lack of flavor in this dish was also apparent, as copious amounts of salt and pepper could not save it. Not to mention that at the price they were charging, it was absolute highway robbery. This was THE tourist trap of all tourist traps. This was made apparent by both the food and the fact that I was surrounded by so many English speakers that it felt like I was in London. Condé Nast must have been a bribed to put them in their article as a down to earth and authentic Venetian restaurant because I simply see no way that they could have gotten a slot on their own merit. In a few words, my summary would be: over hyped, over priced, and NOT WORTH IT. This restaurant made me miss British food- which is a feat in it...
Read more⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️service, food, ambiance
It's in a small quiet piazza on the east side and it's just relaxing eating there People pass, but it's not invasive.
The crew on the floor set the tone with a relaxed manner, but never careless. Knowing when to leave you alone. ( and they were busy)
We had: Beef carpaccio Potatoe Gnocchi w Shrimp Turbut w/Vegetables Seafood pasta in a red sauce Cavetappi(?) pasta with Duck (mama Mia)
Meals were enjoyed by all. The turbut was beautiful, but I'm not sure it was wha t the person expected. I'd eat it,gladly. Gnocchi was excellent
The fruit of the sea pasta was outstanding
I waited 3 weeks to order carpaccio and the other person that ordered it two weeks ago is arguing with me about whose order as better. Mine was
The Duck. You ever order something and not sure why, cause it's a bit wild and you don't have it that often. Order it and chailk it up to experience if you don't like it. This was OUTSTANDING. If I had to pick a meal to repeat over and over, this would be a top candidate
Water, Fanta and Aperols were ordered.
What an...
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