Alla Madonna

This bright and busy trattoria is a classic and has been packing them in for more than 50 years. A Venetian institution, it has a convenient location near the Rialto Bridge, five large dining rooms to accommodate the demand, an encouraging mix of loyal local regulars and foreign patrons, a characteristic decor of high-beam ceilings and walls frame-to-frame with local artists' work, and decent fresh fish and seafood. With all of this, and (by Venetian standards) moderate prices, to boot, it's no surprise that this place is always jumping. Don't expect the waiter to smile if you linger too long over dessert, though. Most of the first courses are prepared with seafood, such as the spaghetti or risotto with frutti di mare (seafood) or pasta with sepie (cuttlefish), blackened from its own natural ink. Most of the day's special fish selections are best simply and deliciously prepared alla griglia (grilled). Despite the good food and reasonable prices for Venice, I mark this restaurant as "overrated" since you'll be rushed through your meal and made to feel like you're part of an assembly line, with waiters caring more about the money you're going to leave on the table than about the quality of your dining experience.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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