Trattoria Da Rino… Where the Performance is as Strong as the Flavours

Just a few seconds from the official Venezia FC ticket store in Campo SS Apostoli, you’ll find Trattoria Da Rino tucked behind one of the city’s many ornate bridges.

We spotted it one afternoon while sipping on a spritz from Tirovino – Il Chioscotto. Over the course of a drink, we watched diners filter in and out of the unassuming entrance and, with the aperitivo doing its job of stimulating an appetite, we crossed our fingers and prayed to the pasta gods for an available table for two.

Surprisingly spacious, the restaurant sprawls back into the centuries-old building, creating a cosy but not too tightly packed atmosphere. Couples, families and large groups of friends all squeezed into this family-run trattoria, now in its 30th year. While a table for two just happened to be free (the pasta gods pulled through), we were assured you would usually need to make a reservation.

Cacio e pepe… and a show

The dish everyone talks about (and orders) is the cacio e pepe, finished tableside in a giant wheel of Parmesan. Your waiter wheels it over, cracks in a generous amount of black pepper, folds the pasta through the melting cheese, and turns a simple Roman classic into a small performance. At just under €25, it’s undeniably more expensive than your average bowl of pasta, but you’re paying for flavour and theatre.

Before we got that far, though, our waiter recommended starting our meal with the capesante gratinate al forno. Juicy baked scallops presented in delicate shells, topped with herbs and lightly caramelised cheese that clung to the edges of the unusual plate. Soft, sweet, and rich – I implore you to order more than one portion.

What really works in Da Rino’s favour is its location. Slightly north of the Rialto Bridge on San Marco, this area feels less claustrophobic than the main tourist hub, yet it’s still close to the action. With plenty of bars nearby, it’s the perfect place to indulge in Venice’s best cuisine before taking a short passeggiata to your nightcap bar of choice.

My only regret? Being too full for dessert. Apparently, the chocolate soufflé is to die for…

Address: Sotoportego Falier, 5642.

Opening Times: 12pm to 10pm every day.