The Bauers are amongst Venice’s most famous hotels, regularly hosting celebrities and with an enviable location overlooking the Grand Canal. They first opened in 1880 and today they are a collection of several centrally located and luxurious properties. We recently enjoyed dinner in their De Pisis Venice restaurant, located within The Bauer Palazzo. Arriving at the hotel, you find a contemporary exterior which contrasts with the historic 18th century palazzo at the rear. The spacious lobby is decorated with stylish artworks.

Heading through to the restaurant, the decor becomes more traditional. Teal blue wall coverings are accentuated by gold antique mirrors and furniture. We were warmly welcomed by the maitre d’, and led to a prime table with a view over the canal. It was a dark and rainy night but we could see the outdoor terrace and imagine how lovely that would be when the weather is favourable. Warm homemade bread arrived whilst we studied the a la carte dinner menu. The sommelier recommended a Colmello di Grotta Sauvignon to accompany our meal. This fragrant white wine hails from the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region in the North East of Italy.
We enjoyed a delicious complimentary amuse-bouche of deep-fried mozarella balls and courgettes. The head chef, Andrea Ribaldone successfully marries a variety of Mediterranean influences, for a truly unique taste.

My first course was a pleasing spider crab with Venetian salad, lemon and almonds. I liked ...