Da Ivo is an institution in many eyes.  Opening in 1976 it is an elegant, old school setting frequented by the rich and famous, like George Clooney, Elton John, Naomi Campbell, Tom Cruise, and Barbra Streisand to name a few.  Its location allows clients to arrive by water taxi or gondola rather than walking there.  The small tables are fairly close and covered with salmon covered clothes with the name prominently printed in the middle, and the napkins are the same.  Tables are set with little birds or cats that turned out to be the salt shakers.  Photos, wine bottles and other memorabilia cover the walls which have stained glass partitions between diners and the street and the kitchen.  The wait staff all spoke great English and were very helpful and friendly, but plenty of Italian was being spoken by other guests.  They offer a huge menu but where to order is off the small chalkboard of daily specials that is brought to the table on a swivel pedestal.   Continue reading →