16/06/2026: Piazza San Marco needs no introduction, and the atmosphere at Gran Caffè Quadri, with its alternating live orchestras, is undoubtedly enchanting. We decided to spend our after-dinner drink here as a couple, captivated by the music, but unfortunately the experience was severely marred by the attitude and confusion of the staff.
The sour notes began when my wife asked for a non-alcoholic Americano (she doesn't consume alcohol for cultural reasons). Instead of accommodating the request professionally, we were almost laughed at. When I ordered a Gin and Tonic, the waiter commented with irritating irony: "Yes, this is done seriously, as it should be done, with alcoholic gin." A decidedly out of place and disrespectful joke.
The height of absurdity came when we tried to order: despite the menu clearly saying "Americano" under the list of non-alcoholic drinks, the waiter began obstructing us. He kept insistently repeating that if we ordered it, only the "liqueur" (non-alcoholic vermouth) would be served straight, not the actual non-alcoholic cocktail. I tried to get an explanation three times, but there was no way: we were dismissed with a perfunctory "No, no, only the liqueur will be served" and redirected to banal fruit cocktails and syrups.
I find it incredible that you can't drink a non-alcoholic cocktail on the menu just because the staff can't (or won't) explain or prepare it.
My note to the management:
I find it truly unfortunate that in a world-renowned venue, a crossroads of different cultures, the choice to not drink alcohol is mocked. If a cocktail is on the menu, the customer has the right to receive it as it is, without being obstructed or subjected to the staff's arrogant irony. The rigidity of the service and that old-fashioned arrogance transformed a romantic evening into a moment of intense discomfort. A little openness and real customer focus wouldn't hurt.
10/06/2026: I really enjoyed this Cafe, not as famous as the Florian but desserts were superior, fresh and tasty in comparison to Florian. Worth the price of experience and location.
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