Ensconced in the heart of Dorsoduro, Calle Lunga San Barnaba reveals a special nature to its inquisitive explorers, that of out of the way and relaxing places. This intersection of calli, campi and rii should be savoured over the course of an entire day, with a mix of strolling, shopping, culture and fine dining. So made a detour, stop, look and enjoy. This is our selection.
Pantagruelica opened its doors when organic food was not yet fashionable and no one knew what it was. Since 1985 Maurizio Gasparollo has been selecting the best of fine Italian and international foods and wines. He is grocer, cellar man and storyteller. The bread made with natural yeast, the oils and the pasta are of excellent quality. And then there are astounding wines, cold cuts, truffles, caviar and cheeses, truly the best for a snack or a meal at home.
Glasses are an object of art at Boudoir Galleria Ottica. Alessandro De Lorenzo offers precious materials, high design content and no logo. In addition to the Lindbergs and Hapters, you’ll find various limited editions and rare pearls: Celebration, inspired by Anna Piaggi’s wardrobe; Vava, post industrial glasses; the Oliver Goldsmith models, 1950s and ’60s icons with the glasses worn by Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s.
A zen stop at the Tea House Fujiyama, where the Venetian Elena Piaggi will introduce you to the rite of tea. You can taste more than 50 types, including infusions and herb and flower teas. The atmosphere is inviting, with a small green outdoor area, frequented by locals of all ages. The window is interesting with the famous grandmother’s teapot and its red tea-cosy on display.
Officine 904 presents bags, foulards and bracelets according to the philosophy of ‘Less is more’, absolute attention to detail, craftsmanship and unique design. It will be difficult to leave without having bought a Market bag or a Tascapane rucksack
Go into Madera, studio shop of design and contemporary crafts. Francesca Meratti has conceived what could be defined as a real concept store, worthy of any European capital. International niche brands and limited ranges of locally made jewellery, accessories and objects for the home, suspended between ethnic, Nordic and minimalist style. The other Madera space in calle lunga San Barnaba is a fine gallery like a film set. Here furnishing accessories and objects for the table are displayed, all handmade.
At Ca’ Macana you can immerse yourself in the fantastic world of the Carnival. The shop is a timeless place, an explosion of colours, shapes, feathers and unique decorations. The workshop has been making authentic Venetian masks since 1984 and also holds courses for learning this art.
Odes to simplicity and substance at the Enoteca Ai Artisti: here the local cuisine is accompanied by products and traditions from Campania and Trento. The dishes are distinguished by their freshness, authenticity and unquestionable creativity. The wine cellar is superb with an offer ranging from rare and precious labels to those of small Italian producers. There is a limited number of inside tables so we advise you to book, also to have a chance to sit facing the bar and enjoy an even more intimate experience.
F.B.
