Make a reservation to dine at L’Anice Stellato, because you don’t want to schlep to this rather off-the-beaten-path osteria in Cannaregio, only to be turned away. The modern, creative preparations and presentations belie both the simple ambiance and the reasonable prices here—the latter a rarity for Venice. The interior is woodsy and cozy but nothing out of the ordinary; in good weather, request a canalside table and enjoy the peaceful setting.
Time Out tip: L’Anice Stellato has a small menu with just a few non-seafood items. While children will be accommodated with a plate of pasta with ragu, adult picky eaters may find their choices too limited.
Nearby:
Casino degli Spirit: For an allegedly haunted palazzo and garden
Madonna dell'Orto Ferry Terminal: For a short hop over to Murano for glass-shopping
Majer: For cookies and other sweets from a historic bakery in the Jewish Ghetto