New To The Scene: Little Venice

You won’t find meatballs on the menu at Little Venice, but with traditional Italian dishes like arrosto di maiale alla Toscana (roasted Tuscan pork with pasta and vegetables) and capesante e gamberi (scallops and large shrimp with linguini and arugula pesto), the menu offers authentic comfort and simple elegance �� you won’t even miss the meatballs. With a rotating weekly menu, diners can enjoy the thrill of trying something new at every visit, but for those who prefer something more familiar, the lasagna is a favorite. “People love it,” says Candi Munaretto, a co-owner of the recently opened hot spot. For every dish served, Candi says it’s rare to pick up an empty plate at the end of the meal. Candi and Walter Munaretto, residents of Sand Springs for over a decade, opened Little Venice this past spring. Alongside chef Enrique Semira, Walter and his kitchen crew create dishes similar to those served in restaurants

overlooking the canals of Venice, while Candi and the front-of-house servers greet their guests with hospitable warmth �� and a glass of wine or cup of

espresso, if they’re up for it. “We only serve Italian wines,” Candi says, and with a laugh, she adds, “House rules: If you don’t like it, we’ll drink it for you.” Guests have thoroughly enjoyed the wine selection, though, and how it pairs with Little Venice staples. The wine list includes a variety of crisp white wines, full-bodied red wines, and bubbly Champagne. Soft drinks and water are available, as well. Located in downtown Sand Springs, Little Venice looks out at the Triangle. Flanked by two golden-winged lions in the windows, diners can’t miss the restaurant’s bright blue door, reminiscent of the Adriatic Sea. Inside, the painted butter-yellow and chestnut wood walls, mismatched dusty-blue reupholstered chairs, framed family photos, panes of stained glass, and fresh flowers adorning the tables, Little Venice is designed to look like home. But the lively chatter (and the fact that there are no dishes to do at the end of the evening) remind you that you’re out on the town, enjoying a taste of Italy without the hassle of an overnight flight and passing through customs. Ideal for business lunches and date nights alike, Candi and Walter say they’ll always go the extra mile for their guests. It’s the Italian way, after all. “We had a desire in our heart that we both wanted to do this,” Candi says, “so here we are.”

Dishes range from $10 to $42. Little Venice is located at 208 N. Main and is open Tuesday through Saturday. Reservations are required and can be made at 918-514-0134.