Despite its location on the main pedestrian thoroughfare leading from the train station to Rialto and beyond, this friendly bar and restaurant eschews tourist menus and overpriced, underwhelming food. Instead, it’s a place to linger over a nice glass (or a bottle) of wine and cheap cicchetti and charcuterie before moving on, or stay for surprisingly elegant seafood entrees made from the day’s market-fresh catch. From a table on the small square out front, you can watch a sea of humanity and rolling suitcases pass by.
Time Out tip: If you’re walking between Santa Lucia train station and San Marco, La Cantina is a great halfway point for a pit stop.
Nearby:
Ca’ d’Oro: For a Renaissance art collection in one of the most beautiful palazzos on the Grand Canal
Rialto Fish Market: For a firsthand look at where that fish on your plate was purchased
TuttoMagia: For a card game or toy to entertain the kids while you sip wine