"Give us a top line view. Located in Gritti Palace , this iconic Venice bar has only gotten more classic with age. Steeped in literary history (it’s where Hemingway finished writing Across the River and into the Trees ). The space is decorated so finely it’s fit for royalty: Murano glass chandeliers that illuminate the opulent room, along with Fortuny fabrics and priceless Piero Longhi paintings. So who’s here? This is where returning visitors of all generations come for their sunset aperitif, overlooking the Grand Canal. Celebrities, notable locals, wedding parties, and any well-heeled traveler living by the ubiquitous #YOLO hashtag, floats through this iconic bar. The drinks: How are they? Ten variations of the martini grace the Bar Longhi cocktail menu, alongside specialty offerings like the Basil-Ica (gin, lemon, St-Germain, basil leaves, and orange bitters), and Kir Imperial (creme de framboise and Champagne). The craft cocktails are complemented by a well-stocked wine cellar. Is there food on offer too? Venetian fare and light bar bites complement the craft cocktails. How did you find the staff? The tuxedoed bartenders are some of the best conversationalists in all of Venice. Grab a seat at the bar and they will happily chat you up, and provide their personal recommendations. What's the bottom line? This is where you want to be for the high point of your trip—the birthday, the proposal, or just the final sunset." - Jenna Scatena
