Osteria Al Ponte del Diavolo

On the peaceful lagoon island of Torcello, away from the central Venice crowds, Osteria al Ponte del Diavolo provides a sophisticated retreat into nature and cuisine. The restaurant, named for the adjacent Ponte del Diavolo (Devil's Bridge), is situated in a converted private villa with a lovely garden and veranda, where guests can enjoy modern Venetian cuisine made with local, seasonal products.

Idyllic Setting in Torcello

The restaurant is located at Fondamenta dei Borgognoni, 10/11, 30142 Torcello, among lush gardens and terraces overlooking the mythical campanile of Torcello.

Visitors often remark on the serene atmosphere, a welcome change from Venice's bustle.

With indoor and outdoor seating — including a charming veranda and garden pagoda under the shade of trees — the restaurant invites leisurely dining in a serene, nature-filled setting.

Cuisine: Tradition Reimagined

Osteria al Ponte del Diavolo characterizes its cuisine as modern yet respectful of tradition, founded on local, seasonal, and lagoon-sourced ingredients.

In summer, the menu concentrates on lighter preparations: raw vegetables, raw seafood, and creative reinterpretations of Venetian classics.

For example, the osteria offers "squid in puttanesca style", raw squid sliced in the style of tagliatelle in tomato-anchovy sauce, and a seafood salad "like in 1981" that unites mantis shrimp, clams, mussels, and squid eggs.

Another specialty is risotto of scampi and tomato or langoustine risotto with bisque and wild rocket. They also re-interpret vegetable and fried fish dishes, and meat and charcuterie appear in some dishes.

Desserts include an innovative Tiramisu and seasonal desserts made by the in-house pastry chef. The kitchen concentrates on home-made pasta, bread, and local fish (normally supplied by local fishermen known as moecanti).
 

Ambience and Hospitality

Guests tend to praise the restaurant's welcoming staff, attentive service, and attention to detail. Ambience is peaceful, upscale, and well-suited for romantic evening dinners or low-key lunches surrounded by nature.

Some reviewers note that prices tend to be on the high side and portions small, a trade-off for quality and setting. Service can be slow during peak times, but most note the friendliness and enthusiasm of the staff.

Outdoor Dining & Seasonal Flavours

During summer, Osteria al Ponte del Diavolo overflows into its veranda and garden outside.

The menu shifts towards lighter, seasonal flavours — herbs, tomatoes, aubergines, and fresh lagoon fish.

The restaurant opens for summer weekend evening dinners to offer al fresco dining under the shade of pergolas and trees.

Special Events & Weddings

Because of its idyllic garden and villa architecture, the osteria is typically selected for weddings, banquets, and private events.

Its serene island setting makes it especially appealing for intimate lagoon celebrations.

Conclusion

For travelers wishing to get off the beaten path and dine amidst nature, Osteria al Ponte del Diavolo offers one of the most enchanting dining experiences in the Venetian lagoon. With its blend of modern twists, seasonal lagoon ingredients, and serene garden villa setting near Torcello's Devil's Bridge, it is worth a destination in itself. For a casual lunch, intimate dinner, or milestone celebration, it invites guests to take their time and indulge in the lagoon, course by course.