Ristorante Antico Martini In Venezia

What I liked: * They open late which makes one of ideal places for dinner after seeing an evening show at Teatro Le Fenice next door because most restaurants would have been closed. * Good service * Clean What I disliked: * Order two dishes with a coke resulting in the most expensive meal during this trip, a whopping 75 euros. Please see pictures below. They added a 10% service fee and another fee called "coperto", which is covered fee for tablecloth washing and so on. I asked about these two additional fees, which I did not expect, nor they disclosed upfront, but when I asked about them, they patiently answered. Since then, I learned to ask before sitting down in a restaurant to ensure they have no hidden fees like this. Some do charge a coperto, and don't. Additional comments: * This is considered a more high-end restaurant. In Italy, especially in Venice, it's harder to differentiate because they all look clean, and menu are similar. Restaurant size doesn't really tell you if it's high end or not. * Most restaurants including this display their menu and price outside, but even so, they do not disclose 10% service charge and coperto. You must ask. These two hidden charges can drive up your meal cost substantially. * Their dishes are unique in flavoring. For example, they added curry flavor in the clam spaghetti. Instead of offering bread in slices, they offered bread sticks, please see the attached picture. Depending on your preference, some like it some don't. Personally, I would not dine at this restaurant again because of these hidden fees, once is enough. But if you are looking for fine dining with high price tag with good service, this can be a good option, especially if you are near the theater district of Venice.

We had a wonderful dinner at this charming restaurant last week. We came across the restaurant by chance wandering around the streets of Venice and thought the setting was beautiful. We didn’t know the history of the establishment- a regular haunt of distinguished guests for many decades. Situated adjacent to the la fenice opera house we watched the audience arrive in black tie and gowns and felt immersed in the experience of the occasion. The food didn’t disappoint- we had a starter to share of fish tartare which was excellent followed by a fritto misto and lamb cutlets - both excellent. The staff and service are excellent and we would love to return.