Elite Traveler November-December 2017

EXPLORE VENICE GUIDE TO VENICE

The city of Venice conjures up a constellation of colorful, dreamlike images for any sanguine traveler. It is a place bursting with art, history, music and romance, where visitors relish majestic architecture, glorious churches and unrivaled food. The uniqueness of the turquoise lagoon remains a fascination for travelers, who come from far and wide to experience the enchantment of a gondola ride through the city’s winding canals. Venice has been noted for its hospitality for many centuries, but especially so when it became an unmissable stop on the Grand Tour and Europe’s nobility flocked to visit St Mark’s Basilica. The city is therefore home to some of the world’s most luxurious accommodations; several former palaces are now hotels. Popular all year round, Venice hosts an array of enlivening annual events including the Venice International Film Festival and the Venice Biennale, an art exhibition founded in 1895.

by Nick Levine

TOP RESTAURANTS

AMO The latest restaurant from the hugely talented Alajmo brothers, this culinary delight is nestled in the heart of luxury department store Fondaco dei Tedeschi, just off the iconic Rialto Bridge. The chef, Max Alajmo, has three Michelin stars and describes the menu as “colorful, light, and festive.” Each dish is a true work of art comprising vibrant and thoughtfully chosen components. Try the outstanding hand-chopped raw beef, served on bark and accompanied by an exquisite black truffle sauce. This dish is something truly special. Contact Michele Pozzani, maître, michele.pozzani@alajmo.it, +39 049 630 303, alajmo.it

TERRAZZA DANIELI Sitting loftily atop the magnificent five-star Hotel Danieli, Terrazza Danieli offers spectacular views of the Grand Canal and glistening Venetian lagoon. The skill of executive chef Dario Parascandolo ensures that the gourmet experience of Terrazza Danieli proudly complements its majestic setting. The menu offers an ingenious array of ingredients and flavors. The cannolo of creamed cod is modern and imaginative — yet perfectly Venetian. It combines fresh fish with the subtle essence of Italy’s legendary drink, the Aperol spritz. Contact Gabriele Giachetti, restaurant manager,

ANTICHE CARAMPANE Antiche Carampane is tucked away in what was once the city’s red light district in the 15th century. It can be found just behind Ponte delle Tette, Venice’s famously alluring bridge. The chefs proudly serve only the seasonal offerings of the lagoon and surrounding area, so you can be absolutely sure your experience is truly Venetian. Enjoy a culinary journey and experience the magnificent Venetian-style cuttlefish along with the local fried soft shell crab. It is no surprise that this secluded trattoria has hosted a glittering array of A-list stars from around the world.

Contact Francesco Agopyan, owner, info@ antichecarampane.com, +39 041 524 0165, antichecarampane.com

gabriele.giachetti@starwoodhotels.com, +39 041 782 786, terrazzadanieli.com

Photo Matteo de Fina