We were told that Al CoVino was a must, by our French Normady girlfriend living in Venice and engaged to a Count.

Created jointly between chef Cesare Benelli of the more formal Al Covo and Andrea Lorenzon, son of the famous Venetian sommelier Mauro Lorenzon, Al CoVino is a sparkling paraiba. A brilliant semi-precious gemstone that is ever more fascinating than a precious diamond.

The younger Lorenzon is bursting with the kind of energy of one who knows exactly what they want exemplify. We showed up to his restaurant without a reservation - it was November after all, isn't that seriously off-season for Venice? - and were commanded to wait in a particular spot on the street corner. Looking at the line of people on the street that all had reservations and were just waiting to be admitted, we weren't sure why we were even told to stand there.

When he beckoned us in, we asked no questions as we were squeezed into a tiny table with two little chairs. He mumbled to us: you are lucky, I just got a cancellation for two, that never happens.

As we were literally seated in the laps of our neighbours in this intimate, 10 or so table restaurant, we got friendly with them as our meal progressed. The Germans were a foursome of old friends that came to Venice every year in November - which they told us was the best time to visit Venice - and told us that they had made their reservation for their table at CoVino almost a year before. Yes, they told us too, we were lucky.

We never saw a menu, or a wine list. Lorenzon just looked at us and started bringing out the most creative, unique, and delicious food. And when I asked for wine, he just poured me what he thought I should have at that moment. In the end, we were totally in his hands.

I do think Al CoVino has menus for their patrons. But I believe Lorenzon wanted to really send the message home as to how lucky we were, by not giving us any kind of choice or free will.

All the better for us.

Reservations encouraged.

HOURS

Please confirm with establishment.

ADDRESS

Calle del Pestrin, 3829

CONTACT

https://alcovino.it

ph: +39 327 113 5281

LEAD-IN IMAGE

Al CoVino / Official Site