A continually evolving project

Welcome to our Meat Lab, the most fragrant smokehouse in Venice (and also the only one). We are Francesco & Federico, two friends who decided to combine an insane passion for American BBQ, a pinch of entrepreneurial madness, and a wild desire to bring something new to the canals of our city.

In 2021, we fired up our first smoker in the Venetian calli with a simple yet ambitious idea: to bring together American-style smoked meats with top-quality Italian ingredients. That’s how Atled Meat Lab was born—the first artisanal smokehouse in Venice. Yes, right here, where the only smoke we were used to came from vaporetto engines.

Our goal? To serve smoked meats and sandwiches that make a lasting impression, breaking away from the usual burger routine. Every recipe is born from trials, errors, countless tastings, research, and a bit of improvisation. But above all, from a genuine love for what we do.

Pulled pork, brisket, ribs, pastrami—and even veggie options, smoked with love. Everything is cooked low and slow with cherry wood and a lot of patience. The sauces? All homemade, even that wild berry one you keep asking us to bottle. The bread? From a local artisan bakery. The beers? Local and craft too. We like knowing exactly what we’re serving you.

Over the years, you've rewarded us with reviews that make us blush, brought us into the Gambero Rosso guide for three years in a row, and made us a go-to spot for anyone looking for something different, but done right. And every day, we try to give back all that love with care, indulgent sandwiches, and a warm welcome that makes you feel at home—even if you show up in flip-flops and in the rain.

This is our story. Actually, it’s yours and ours. Welcome to Atled Meat Lab, Smokeheads!