The Florian, a well-known coffeehouse located on the bustling Piazza San Marco, has unfortunately been closed for several months due to the impact of Covid-19. This closure is primarily due to the absence of tourists, who typically flock to this iconic destination. With a dedicated team of 50 staff members, the Florian is known for its exceptional service and timeless ambiance, making it a beloved spot for music enthusiasts like myself to relax and enjoy classic tunes.
The newly opened establishment offers a captivating experience for visitors. Operating exclusively on weekends, it provides patrons with the opportunity to admire breathtaking views. A cup of espresso is available for 6.50 euros and is accompanied by a complimentary glass of water.
The Menu
Visiting Venice is a unique and unforgettable experience. It offers a great opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich history of the city.
Founded In 1720
Florian, originally established in 1720 as Alla Venezia Trionfante (Venice the Triumphant), has a rich history as a prominent literary and philosophical center in Venice. Over the years, it has attracted numerous distinguished intellectuals such as Goethe, Charles Dickens, and Marcel Proust. Moreover, the cafe has been involved in various early political debates, adding to its significance in Venice’s cultural landscape.
This cafe is a popular spot for both socializing and taking Instagram and Tik Tok worthy photos.
Life Is Short
Sitting here after the lockdown, made me ponder that travel experiences come at a cost. Don’t count the pennies when ordering your food.
At this establishment, patrons have the option to dine indoors or outdoors. The cost of enjoying afternoon tea here is 35 euros per person.
The closed Florian restaurant creates a captivating backdrop with its electric atmosphere, even when not in operation.
How Many Times Has It Been Closed?
In 1796, the Venetian authorities temporarily closed down the Florian café due to concerns of gatherings by pro-revolutionary Jacobins. Similarly, in 1848, the café became a popular meeting place for Venetian separatists advocating for the city-state’s independence from the Austrian Empire. The Senate Hall, one of Florian’s most lavishly decorated rooms, underwent redecoration in 1893 and contains secret visual references to Freemasonry with political subversive connotations.
Salon Decor
The current style of the cafes is sumptuous and includes ornate frescoed, gilded, and mirrored rooms such as the Oriental Salon and Chinese Salon. These renovations took place in the mid-19th century. Additionally, the newest room called Sala Liberty, which is inspired by Art Deco, was added to the café in 1920.
Famous People
Piazza San Marco has a rich history spanning 300 years, attracting people from all over who are fascinated by its beauty and charm.
Charlie Chaplin (1889-1977)
Charlie Chaplin, a renowned silent film actor from 1889 to 1977, was known to have visited the cafe on several occasions throughout his career. During one of his visits in 1931, he left behind a doodled self-portrait along with a concise review, stating that the food was excellent.
Giacomo Casanova (1725-1798)
Giacomo Casanova, a Venetian nobleman and memoirist who lived from 1725 to 1798, was famous for his numerous romantic conquests and detailed accounts of them in his diary. He frequently visited Florian, a popular café known for its excellent coffee, vibrant atmosphere, and diverse clientele. What set Florian apart from other cafés in the city was its policy of admitting women, making it a prime location for Casanova to pursue his amorous adventures.
Charles Dickens (1812-1870)
Charles Dickens (1812-1870) was a renowned Victorian novelist who had a deep affection for both London and Venice. In one of his travelogues from 1846, titled “Pictures from Italy,” he described his experiences in Venice as a surreal and dream-like journey on the water. During his time in Venice, Dickens particularly enjoyed spending time at Florian Cafe, a place that he believed was impossible not to love.
Cafe Style
Florian is the ideal destination for those looking to display their affluence, exhibit their fashionable street style, and embrace a fulfilling lifestyle. As I approach my fiftieth birthday, I am certain that this is the perfect location to commemorate my fifty years of existence. As I stroll through the charming streets of Venice, adorned in my stylish trainers, I am captivated by the opportunity to immerse myself in the essence of Italian dolce Vita.
A must-visit is buying a bag from Michele De Fina. The designer once worked with the famous luxury brand, Prada. It is just a five-minute walk from Florian cafe.
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