La Fenice restaurant is known in Venice as Taverna La Fenice, a name given by writer Gabriele d’Annunzio during the years of the First World War. Not many restaurants can make that claim. This charming, historic, romantic restaurant has stood beside the world-famous La Fenice opera house since 1907. Think ochre stucco, window boxes, fine Italian dining and superb Italian service in a traditional setting with fresh flowers, suffused light and a delightful terrace at the front of the restaurant surrounded by screens and plants. Even the presence of tour groups doesn’t mar the professional service or the romantic atmosphere. Dishes include La Fenice’s own carpaccio, risotto with scampi and rocket, tagliatelle with cream sauce and wild mushrooms, and turbot roasted with potatoes and tomato sauce. The wine list matches the excellence of the carte.