Christopher P.
Yelp
TLDR: A cozy, intimate spot near the Frari Basilica serving contemporary Venetian cuisine and a standout natural wine list. Excellent service, thoughtful presentation, and high-quality cooking make Estro a strong recommendation while in Venice.
General Info:
Just a short walk from the Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, Estro - Vino e Cucina is a warm, inviting wine bar and restaurant offering modern Mediterranean dishes rooted in Venetian tradition. Run by brothers Alberto and Dario Spezzamonte, it combines relaxed hospitality with refined cooking and a serious dedication to natural wines (over 600 labels from sustainable producers). The intimate space seats no more than 30 guests and has a rustic yet polished charm, with walls lined with wine bottles and thoughtful design touches throughout. Murano glassware and artful plating elevate the aesthetic without feeling pretentious. Service was attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable from start to finish; I felt well taken care of without being rushed.
Food:
Every dish I had was flavorful, well-executed, and presented with care. The warm sourdough bread was a great start. A raw fish starter of the day featured pristine oysters, perfectly cooked prawns, and delicious tuna, all paired thoughtfully with radish and lettuce for texture and balance. I also sampled starters from other members of my party: a traditional Venetian antipasto (with baccalà mantecato, grilled octopus, and scampi in saor) and a rich poached egg with asparagus and goat cheese foam. The latter was especially indulgent and well-balanced. I got the bigoli in salsa, which was a standout: the noodles had a perfect bite, and the anchovy sauce was creamy, salty, and deeply satisfying. Another member of my party got the pea risotto, which was just as strong, creamy, fresh, and well-seasoned. My main dish, the pan-seared amberjack, came with crispy skin, tender flesh, and a rich, creamy garlic and anchovies sauce that tied it all together beautifully. For dessert, I ordered the tiramisú, which was expertly executed and pleasantly light, though I didn't quite catch the boozy note that was supposed to be in it. Overall, the food more than justified the price (about €20 for starters and €30 for mains), and the presentation far surpassed expectations at this level.
Overall Thoughts:
Estro is a very solid restaurant. It hits all the key notes: seasonal, skillfully cooked food; a fantastic wine list; beautiful presentation; and genuinely good service. The attention to detail, like Murano glassware and artful plating, adds a special touch without trying too hard. I reserve five stars for truly life-changing meals, but Estro came close. If you're in Venice and want a modern, thoughtful take on local cuisine, this should absolutely be on your list.