This latest addition to the Blue Guides series of travel monographs provides an entertaining read and a fun to-do list, a great introduction to Venice for the first-time visitor, adding wonderful depth and color for those who already know and love the city. Venice’s historic bars and cafés offer a window on the city’s past and present. And there is a dazzling array of drinks to choose from—cocktails, aperitivos, wines from the Venice hinterland and around the Adriatic, spirits from the foothills of the Alps, not to mention impeccable coffee. Long time Venice resident Robin Saikia ( The Venice Lido, Blue Guide Italy Food Companion ) takes the reader on a fascinating tour, weaving history and anecdote into a fascinating web as he visits 26 Venetian bars and cafés and contemplates the city over 26 different drinks.