Most of you know that I am always in Venice – so I have a set list of places to shop and eat. Usually I am showing people around so I never have time to explore the bits I haven’t see in awhile. I got a chance to do just that on my last trip. I had a day and half to run around like crazy, happening upon never-noticed shops that were both far away from St. Marks Square and close.
If it’s your first time in Venice, try and make time for these as they are run by Venetians and have Venetian made products – unlike some of the things you find in the more touristy spots which are made in India and China.
ATTOMBRI
Campo San Maurizio, S. Marco 2668/a (tel. +39-041-5210789) and they have a second shop near the Rialto Bridge at Sottoportico di Rialto 74 (tel. +39-041-5212524)
Divine jewelry – really art, not jewelry.
GIANNI BASSO
5306 Calle del Fumo (make sure you call – so that you know he is in!)
Really the only place to get personal cards and stationery in the world. His shop is like a museum and he is utterly charming so drop in.
GLORIA ASTOLFO
1581 Calle Frezzeria, San Marco; 041-520-6827
Fun jewelry – all made in Venice. The first time you go – there is an amazing frenzy of stuff to try on and buy so leave a lot of time!
ESSEGI ART MURANO – 6060 Cannaregio (in the same square as Santa Maria dei Miracoli)
What makes this place different from your average glass place is the quality of the wares. They represent five Venetian artists and the jewelry is divine and not too pricey!
NICOLA TENDERINI
Campo Bella Vienna-Erberia – nr the Rialto Fish Market – 041 5226532
CHARME
1183/b Ramo Toletto – 041 523 8691 (on the way from the Accademia to the Frari)
Nicola Tenderini is an artist based in Venice. I found his watercolors to be so charming and the products he creates are lovely, especially the cook book of Venice specialties in three languages. There are also notebooks, calendars, cards, etc. Charme is a shop run by his wife which sells his things as well as some other touristy bits.
JESURUM – Flagship Store: 2401 Calle Larga XXII Marzo 041.5238969 (the main shopping street from San Marco to the Accademia)
The gorgeous bath and sheets are back after leaving town for a bit. They are for the rich and famous but always nice to go in and have a look.
GIORGIO NASON
Dorsoduro 167 – 041.5239426 (On the street between the Guggenheim and the Accademia)
One of the more inventive designers of glass jewelry!
LE BURLE VENEZIANE
Piscina San Samuele, 3436 (on the way to Palazzo Grassi) 041 5222150
Monica Burcovich has created very beautiful pieces using antique designs. Really special!