Osteria Alla Testiere

If it’s fish you’re after, this teeny tiny restaurant with just nine tables is a terrific spot to sample Venice’s seafood traditions, albeit with a contemporary and creative touch.  In fact, the fish is so fresh and dependent on the market that the menu is printed daily.  We sampled Scallops baked with a lovely combination of tomato, leeks and orange, and a simple but splendidly fresh Steamed Spider Crab dressed with nothing more than salt, pepper and olive oil.  And there’s a bevvy of whole fish to choose from nightly.  While the atmosphere is laidback, the food is thoughtful as is the wine list,  which is filled with an excellent variety of local bottles and half-bottles.

Scallops With Orange & Leeks

The seafood is also used to good measure in the pasta section, like Broccoli & Ricotta Ravioli scattered with Shrimp and fresh Tomatoes and Spaghetti with Clams.  Another classic was the Shrimp Alla Busara served with tomatoes, onion, white wine and a sweet dash of cinnamon. Dessert is the weakest link here, so order the cheese plate instead or grab the check and gelato elsewhere.