Palanca

The service was the part we’ll remember most. Everyone checked whether we were enjoying the food or needed anything, and a middle-aged gentleman spoke so warmly about the dishes and asked what we thought. He went home after lunch, so perhaps he was the boss or head cook. He was lovely, and the whole team made us feel at home, like we were visiting an aunt or grandmother. We ate on Thursday, April 16, with beautiful weather and a wonderful view of the water. The fish ravioli was delicious, with juicy fish and a pleasant taste of the sea. For mains, we had spaghetti with shrimps and asparagus in a delicious creamy sauce, plus the fish of the day, squid/calmari. We’d never tried squid before and were surprised by how tasty it was, so soft and perfectly seasoned. There were green leaves with it, not sure what they were, but they went perfectly with the squid. The tiramisu and panna cotta were both delicious, though the strawberries won the dessert battle. The wines were very good too.

The food tasted local, and although the fish special seemed a little salty at first, by the time I’d eaten more I didn’t feel that way at all. It was delicious. There were plenty of customers who kept coming back, which says something about the place. The service was wonderful, and the choices were good. It really does feel like an authentic local spot. If you can get a window seat, the view is amazing. It’s easy to find and easy to reach by boat, definitely worth a visit. A hit!

Fresh bread that was absolutely delicious, and the coffee was rich and well made, just right to start the day. La Palanca has a cozy, very authentic feel.

The food was outstanding, and the staff were really friendly. It’s the kind of restaurant full of local people. I recommend the pasta with cream of vegetables and prawns, along with the seabass ravioli. Best meal we had in Venice.