It's a little hidden away, but once you find it this 'gastrosteria' provides what is so often lacking in Venice: high-level cuisine in an ambience of contemporary elegance, at prices that will not leave you feeling fleeced. Service and table settings are informal, and the culinary approach is to serve up simple ingredients in creative combinations (a good example being a delicious cod in a spicy coconut and lemongrass sauce), with the occasional vegetarian option. Put yourselves in the able hands of Simone, the sommelier son of owner-chef Nadia Locatelli, if you're overwhelmed by the 300 or so bottles on the wine list.

Ai Mercanti pulls off that difficult trick of being dark, grown-up, playful, and warm—all at once. The restaurant bills itself as a gastrosteria, and delivers with experimentation firmly rooted in Venetian tradition, and a light touch with dishes for all appetites. Some combinations here—marinated sardines with nachos; pea and cuttlefish risotto with ginger—come as a surprise in gastronomically staid Venice, but they work.

Ai Mercanti, a stone’s throw from Piazza San Marco near the central Calle Frezzeria, is a small gastrosteria – from the union of gastronomy, understood as haute cuisine, and the typically Venetian tavern osteria – which offers an excellent menu based on “poor” ingredients from the lagoon tradition reinterpreted in international recipes with a refined aesthetic construction by chef Nadia Locatello. The romantic atmosphere is reminiscent of a clandestine jazz club with soft lighting, leather sofas and jazzy music for connoisseurs. In the summer, dinner is served al fresco in the small Corte Coppo in front of the restaurant.

OverviewTucked between Rialto and San Marco, Ai Mercanti offers an innovative culinary experience that blends traditional Venetian flavors with contemporary techniques. Known as a hidden gem, this restaurant appeals to those seeking a refined yet approachable dining experience. AmbianceChic and intimate, the restaurant’s modern interior design contrasts beautifully with the historic surroundings.

Ai Mercanti offers a culinary experience blending tradition with innovation. With its intimate ambiance and attentive service, this restaurant invites diners on a journey through Venetian cuisine reimagined for the modern palate. Led by talented chefs, Ai Mercanti showcases the bounty of the Venetian lagoon with meticulously crafted dishes harmonizing seasonal flavors.

Ai Mercanti, which is tucked between alleys and offers a seasonal menu. We loved the small, sophisticated space and menu, with items like sous-vide chicken with fennel, spaghetti with fondue cheese, and a caramel flan with apricots and cookie crumbles. This place came recommended online and from a friend, and required a reservation.

Ai Mercanti is a restaurant that is located in the heart of Venice, at San Marco district. The restaurant’s menu features a range of seafood dishes, as well as meat and vegetarian options. Experience Private Grand Canal Boat Tour, Murano and Burano 6 hours

Owners who claim their businesses can update their profile details, add photos, respond to reviews, and more. Address: Corte Coppo, 4346/a, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy. Schedule: Open until 10:30 pm

Corte Coppo, 4346/a, 30124 Venezia VE, ItalyPhone: +39 041 523 8269 Visit Website. View this post on Instagram. A post shared by La Coppia Che Sgranocchia ?

Then be sure to check out Ai Mercanti, which offers modern Italian cuisine with a creative twist in a stylish, contemporary setting.