Cantinone Già Schiavi Bar / Café

Dorsoduro, Venice –

Although the name of this quaint cantina along Fondamenta Nani may be disputed – especially since it has one name on the sign and another on the awning – there is no doubt that Cantinone Già Schiavi is a simple slice of heaven.

Situated on the wide and picturesque canal at Ponte San Trovaso, the bar draws a constant crowd of spirited wine drinkers who show up to linger under the shade of the awning or perch on the canal wall.

There is definitely nothing fancy about the place as Cantinone prefers to keep things simple with dark wood furnishings, a long, rustic bar, and ceiling-high stacks of wines and liquors – much to the delight of the cheerful neighbors, colleagues, and classmates who pack the place at lunchtime to clamor for the attention of the barman and a plate of exquisite cicchetti.

A quintessential Venetian locale, the beloved Cantinone Già Schiavi offers a neighborly social vibe where anyone is welcome to spend an afternoon shooting the breeze over a glass of wine or two.