Confused bland and depressing

Posted by James from Provincetown, MA on 11/5/06

I have no idea why Fodor's has this as one of their 'picks'. They really need to review it. How a restaurant in Venice, of all places, could be so cold in atmosphere was astounding. Like an indoor/outdoor basement. They seemed confused as to whether it was a coffehouse/club or restaurant. The waiter was irritated and bored, he seemed very far removed from his job. Rushed us to order something to drink even before we sat down. My dining partner had mixed fried fish for the main course, which I love, and something everyone does right in Venice. I took a calamari and couldn't even chew it. It was like the anti-Venetian fried fish- in a thick batter and greasy. Something you would NEVER expect from a Venetian cook. I had a fish that they wrapped in sliced potatoes, which were tough. The cold dark sterile atmosphere combined with a one note kitchen really was too much. Especially since it was at least as expensive as several other truly fine restaurants in Venice. Didn't have coffee or dessert or grappa, and for the only time on our trip, didn't leave extra for the service, but the staff also seemed to be expecting it. There are so many other good places to eat with warmth and atmosphere, that I would never go here again. Sorry, I hate to leave bad reviews, but it was a disappointment.