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 highly recommend.