Review: Caffè Florian

Okay, you’ve just walked in. First impressions?Caffè Florian, in Piazza San Marco, has been open since 1720. In the early days, it was a watering hole for the likes of Proust, Dickens, and Casanova. Now, it's a tourist spot, sure—but it's a charming, beautiful, and inarguably romantic one. Musicians (which you're paying for by the way—a fee will show up on your bill) play in the square out front, and patrons cluster around low marble tables, sipping hot chocolate and picking delicate pastries off silver trays.

Who else is here?Travelers from all over the world come to take in the ornate interiors (the wooden bar is particularly photogenic) or to grab a seat and watch the madness of the piazza.

The drinks here: How are they?The thick, sweet hot chocolate is famous, as are the elaborate coffee concoctions. In the late afternoon, you might see people indulging in an Aperol spritz or Negroni.

What's the food like?Clubby and upscale café food: pressed sandwiches, delicate layer cakes, plates of local cookies, and dressed-up bowls of gelato.

How about the staff: what did you think?They can be a bit harried during peak tourist season, but otherwise they're friendly, professional, and well-versed in multiple languages.

Who should go here?For first-timers, Florian is a glamorous place to stop and refuel. For those who have already been here a handful of times, it might feel a bit contrived though.