Cafe Florian: Home of the Spritz

I'll admit I was a bit nervous on my first visit to Venice. You often only hear of the enormous crowds and the disneyification of a popular city. I feel a bit lucky that during my visit the city wasn't too crowded. As my wife and I sauntered over to St. Mark's square, I was prepared for the worst but was delightfully surpised at the Oasis of calm that Cafe Florian provided. Whenever you visit somewhere as iconic and established as Cafe Florian, you have a bit of an expectation. Needless to say, the old coffee house delivered. The five piece jazz band was playing both Italian and global classics. Of course, I had to order the classics, the Florian Spritz (after all Venice is the home of the Aperol Spritz) and a Negroni. The something about a bitter cocktail that I can't help but enjoy.

What to Order at Cafe Florian

The Florian Spirtz

It's my humble opinion that when in Rome...you should order what the establishment is known for. In this case, you can't miss ordering a spritz. The simple order is an aperol spritz, but you would be doing yourself a disservice if you didn't take a look at all the options. You can order a select spritz or a raspberry spritz....really anything. I dare say that it's almost (not really) overwhelming with all the options. I chose to keep it simple and stick their top line order, the Florian Spirtz.

A Negroni

The all time classic Italian cocktail, you either love them or you don't. The blend of red vermouth, gin, and campari with a squeeze of orange. It's admittedly a bitter cocktail, but it's also a cocktail that you learn to love with time...or maybe that's what I tell myself

An Affogato

When you're at a coffee house, you'd better get some coffee. We decided to have a nice affogato with their famous coffee. Just picture this, a warm early spring day with a Florian Spritz at the piazza san marco with your best friends and nothing to do but look at the people around you.

Menu and Ambiance at Caffe Florian

The menu is large one and has something for everybody. But as I mentioned before, try to stick to the classics. Yet at the same time, you're on vacation...get what you want. The piazza san marco has a relaxed vibe at Caffè florian and you should not miss this unique experience. If you're in the early days of your travels, stop here for a bit an enjoy yourself.

Conclusion

Overall, I loved my experience at Caffè florian in St. Mèrk's square or piazza san marco as it's known in Italian. To have quality service surrounded by absolute beauty is something to behold. Venice is a truly remarkable city and the city completely exceeded my expectations. There is something for everyone at Caffè florian, from hot chocolate for the kids to sandwiches and of course coffee at the oldest coffee house. I highly recommend stopping by for drinks, food, or a small or large meal. Spend some extra time here than you anticipate and let La Dolce Vita overcome you.