Da Ivo, Venice

Venetian style cooking at the highest level. Specializing in fresh fish, tho they also cure their own beef. Romantic setting with pink tablecloths, art-covered walls and elegant service. A small, intimate place that probably seats less than 40 people. Expensive but worth it.

Favorite Dish: The mussel soup served as an appetizer, then the branzino. Zablione for dessert or the wild strawberries served with pepper, balsamic vinegar.

A great restaurant not far from St Mark's Sq. Not that large and though mostly filled with tourists, not a tourist venue - if you know what I mean. Authentic dishes, cooked beautifully and attentive but not intrusive service.

Favorite Dish: The starter of Taglioene with shaved black truffles was divine and the main course of soft-shell crabs whilst expensive at €40 was incredible.

A very intimate and romantic setting...the atmosphere in this cozy trattoria can't be beat. Da Ivo has just a handful of tables and sits along a small canal. If you get a table next to the windows you can watch the gondolas float by. The service and food are great! Reservations definitely required for dinner. Try dropping in for lunch like we did...cheaper and no reservations needed!

Favorite Dish: Stuffed fried zucchini flowers