I felt like Da Fiore was just going through the motions. It struck me as place that is there simply to cater to rich tourists, but without backing it up with extraordinary cooking. A fancy, exclusive place to dine, but lacking greatness. There's one in Rome that struck me exactly the same way. Had the 7 course tasting menu and there was nothing remarkable nor memorable about any of it. Ai Mercanti (same category of restaurant) presented a better all around experience, in my opinion. I tend to judge my restaurants a bit harshly though; you might eat at Da Fiore and have the meal of your life. Lots of reviews on TA that say just that.

As for Alle Testiere, we had a reservation for mid-evening and they were out of most everything. All they could offer was a mixed grill of the pieces they had left. Not particularly impressive for a restaurant that one survey said was the fifth best in all of Italy. Maybe they are a victim of their own success and having trouble handling the volume that comes with such good PR. Only thing I can say is, I would go the earlier in the evening the better and I'm guessing you'll have a better meal.

One more thing. Not going to re-read this thread from the beginning to see if you already have a reservation, but next time I go dining in Venice it will be to Quadri. Sounds great and not necessarily that much, if the experience is as good as it is reported.

One last thing - if you really want a fabulous meal, make a daytrip to Modena and eat lunch at Osteria Francescana. One of my best meals