Da Lorenzo – Al Giardino Segreto

The story

Da Lorenzo – Al Giardino Segreto, Venice: Refined Fusion in a Hidden Garden

Da Lorenzo – Al Giardino Segreto occupies a quiet corner of a centuries-old Venetian palazzo in Cannaregio. The restaurant is named after Lorenzo Patarol, an 18th-century botanist who once lived here and transformed the private garden into a botanical sanctuary. That garden remains at the heart of the experience, a hidden space of Mediterranean plants, rare species, and paths that open onto views of the lagoon.

The kitchen is led by Michelin-starred chef Paulo Airaudo. Born in Argentina and shaped by kitchens around the world, Airaudo brings a philosophy of clean flavours, honest ingredients, and meticulous technique. His cuisine is both grounded and contemporary, reflecting personal memories and cultural heritage. Working alongside him is chef Salvatore Paladino, a Sicilian whose experience in Italy’s most prestigious kitchens brings authenticity and focus to daily execution. Together, they offer a fusion cuisine that draws on seasonality and precision.

The Menu

The menu changes with the seasons. Two tasting menus are offered: Sensazioni, a four-course journey described as “endless nuance,” and Emozioni, seven chapters of “pure expression.” A short à la carte selection is also available. Each dish highlights a main ingredient with minimal intervention. Wine pairings are curated to complement the purity of flavours.

The Secret Garden

The garden is the restaurant’s defining feature. Originally designed in the 18th century by Patarol, it blends Mediterranean and rare plants with winding paths. The dining room overlooks this space, where silence and nature create a sense of retreat. The restaurant is part of the NH Collection Grand Hotel Palazzo dei Dogi, a 17th-century palazzo with frescoes and original details, whose private garden is the largest in the city.

The restaurant’s inclusion in the Michelin Guide 2025 recognises this careful balance of place, history, and cuisine. The fusion approach, rooted in Airaudo’s international experience and Paladino’s Italian sensibility, makes Da Lorenzo a singular addition to Venice’s dining scene.