Alla Ciurma - Dorsuduro Venezia Italia

Venetian Meatballs

Shrimp wrapped with lard

IMPORTANT YELP UPDATE: Osteria alla Ciurma is NOT closed, but it has moved to a different location in Santa Croce. Address is 2041 along the Calle del Tentor. I firmly believe it is the same business because 1. it has the same name and 2. the menu is exactly what I see described in previous Yelp reviews. So, this is cicchetteria (no translation, but think tapas) extraordinaire that we found by accident because I saw some locals hanging out in the street drinking outside, which made me take a second look at the place. Inside at the bar, you will find a bunch of crostini with various toppings to buy, some small panini, some meatballs, some calamari, etc. We scored a table in the back inside, and then ordered what we wanted at the counter. Service... just two people running their butts off constantly... was amazing. They are running small plates of food, making drinks, ringing people up; it was a beautiful dance of service unknown in the US. Speaking of, we were the only non-Italians there. Always a plus but especially in Venice. For drinks, you can get wine sfuzi or a Spritz for 2.50 Euros. What??? If you're looking for an authentic yummy experience, check it out. About 12 minutes from the Rialto.

Small, and not a ton of menu items but the ones I had were really good. The meatballs are excellent, the carne burger, also excellent, the fried fish caught me off guard, very savory. Has the dive bar feel and you can grab a couple items real quick to eat on the run. Very cheap and quick food that left me satisfied.

This place is not well marked. There 's a ship sign marking the small Osteria, and you 'll see the actual sign, Osteria Alla Ciurma upon poking your head in. You 'll need to come between noon and two, and there might be a wait for this particular dish, but MY GOD, order the prawns with lard. Oh yes, you heard me right. This lard is a fatty slice of pork melted over prawns and baguette. Each piece is about $2.00. You don 't need more than 2-they 're very rich. Don 't let the small bite/small price tag/slight wait fool you. I bet big bucks this is the best thing you eat in Venice. Like, all my bucks. Get a glass of prosecco while you wait, let you expectations go sky high, and then enjoy when they 're gloriously met