A Venetian tradition reimagined
Just steps from the majestic Basilica della Salute and the artistic heart of the Accademia Galleries, Ai Gondolieri offers a refined evolution of Venetian culinary heritage. What began in the early 1900s as a welcoming tavern for local residents and workers (whose original sign from the 1940s is now protected as a historic symbol of the city) has transformed into one of Venice’s most cherished dining destinations.
Once Ai Gondolieri was a simple inn, where gondoliers and locals gathered to enjoy hearty meals, sip a glass of wine, and play cards; the restaurant has preserved that warmth while embracing a contemporary spirit. Since 1987, owner Giovanni Trevisan has cultivated a place where gastronomy and hospitality meet culture and artistry, restoring the restaurant’s original identity while elevating its offering.
To dine at Ai Gondolieri is to savor Venice itself: its deep- rooted traditions, its passion for fresh ingredients, and its timeless elegance. The kitchen celebrates the bounty of the lagoon with seasonal specialties, homemade pasta crafted daily, and carefully selected meats prepared according to authentic Venetian recipes. Here, quality is not an option:it is the foundation of every dish.
Ai Gondolieri is also widely recognized for its exceptional catering and banqueting services. In partnership with Café Museum and Event, the restaurant has curated prestigious receptions and ceremonies throughout Venice and the Veneto region, including captivating outdoor events on the Peggy Guggenheim Collection’s terrace overlooking the Grand Canal. These have included celebrations in honor of renowned personalities and influential artists.
Capable of accommodating events of up to 2,000 guests, Ai Gondolieri provides a fully comprehensive service: from menu design to table settings, from staffing to logistics, complete with mobile kitchens and refrigeration systems. Every detail reflects the same dedication to excellence found in the restaurant itself. Adjacent to the restaurant, the wine bar offers a more informal yet equally curated experience, light gourmet dishes paired with a thoughtful selection of wines served throughout the day.
Beloved by locals and visitors alike, Ai Gondolieri is a vibrant meeting point for the international art community. Frequent guests include critics, curators, and directors from the Guggenheim Foundation, along with a distinguished list of prominent figures. Among the many celebrated patrons over the years have been French President François Mitterrand, artists such as Musico and Dale Chihuly, iconic ballerina Carla Fracci, and internationally acclaimed fashion designers Roberto Cavalli, Trussardi, and Valentino.
Proud member of the Association of Restaurants of Warm Hospitality and the Union of Italian Restaurateurs, Ai Gondolieri stands as an ambassador of Venetian excellence: an experience where history, art, and taste elegantly converge.
