Venezia Restaurant, located at 134 North Carrollton Avenue in New Orleans' Mid-City neighborhood, has been a cherished dining establishment since its opening in 1957. Founded by Anthony Carollo, son of the notorious New Orleans mob boss Sylvestro "Silver Dollar Sam" Carollo, the restaurant became known as a local gathering spot, often associated with its connections to the city's colorful past. ?
Customers enjoy the cozy ambiance of the restaurant, as well as the friendly and attentive service provided by the staff. Some recommended dishes included the veal, lasagna, the chicken parmesan, and the seafood linguine.
In 1987, ownership transitioned to Anthony Bologna, who has maintained the restaurant's commitment to traditional Italian cuisine. Following the devastation of Hurricane Katrina in 2005, Bologna oversaw significant renovations to restore and preserve Venezia's classic ambiance.
The menu at Venezia showcases a variety of Italian dishes, including their renowned Sicilian-style pizzas and hearty pasta offerings topped with rich "red gravy," a term locals affectionately use for marinara sauce. Signature items such as the Veal Supreme, a paneed veal dish topped with a crawfish and shrimp cream sauce, highlight the restaurant's dedication to robust flavors and generous portions.
In August 2024, Venezia expanded to a second location at 1915 Pratt Street in Gretna, Louisiana. This new venue offers the same beloved menu as the original, with additional features like a tableside Caesar salad experience and live piano music on Friday and Saturday nights, further enriching the dining atmosphere.
Throughout its decades-long history, Venezia has remained a steadfast institution in New Orleans, attracting both locals and visitors with its authentic Italian fare and warm, family-friendly environment.
Venezia: Italian, 134 N Carrollton Ave, New Orleans (Mid-City) map - 488-7991