When in Venice, there’s one food experience you shouldn’t miss: cicchetti. These small, flavorful snacks are a staple of Venetian cuisine, offering a unique taste of the city’s rich culinary culture. Similar to Spanish tapas, cicchetti are bite-sized treats served in local bars called bacari. They are a must-try for anyone looking to experience authentic Venetian life.
What Exactly Is Cicchetti?
Cicchetti (pronounced “chee-KEH-tee”) are small, bite-sized dishes that are usually served on a slice of bread or in small bowls. They are similar to tapas in Spain, but with their own Venetian flair. Cicchetti allows you to try a variety of local specialties in small portions, making it perfect for a light snack or even a full meal if you try several different kinds.
The beauty of cicchetti is in its variety. It’s a creative, tasty way to experience the best ingredients Venice has to offer. You’ll find a wide range of choices, from seafood to meats, vegetables, and cheeses. Each bacaro might have its own unique twist on cicchetti, and this makes it fun to explore and try different versions around the city.
What Kind of Cicchetti Can You Expect?
One of the great things about cicchetti is how it reflects the local flavors of Venice. Since Venice is surrounded by water, you’ll notice that seafood plays a big role in many of these small dishes. However, there are plenty of options for everyone, whether you’re a seafood lover or prefer meat and vegetarian options. Here are some of the most common and popular types of cicchetti you’ll find:
Baccalà mantecato – This is a classic Venetian cicchetti made from salted cod that is whipped into a creamy spread. It’s usually served on a slice of toasted bread and has a smooth, rich texture.
Sarde in saor – This is a dish of marinated sardines, often served with caramelized onions, pine nuts, and raisins. It’s a perfect balance of sweet and sour, with a very traditional Venetian flavor.
Polpette – These are small, savory meatballs. You’ll find polpette made from different kinds of meat, fish, or even vegetables. They are often fried or baked and served on a small plate.
Crostini with prosciutto – Thin slices of prosciutto (Italian ham) are placed on top of crispy bread, often accompanied by soft cheeses like Asiago or Taleggio.
Mozzarella in carrozza – This is a small fried sandwich filled with melted mozzarella cheese. Crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, it’s a popular and comforting choice.
Cicheti di mare – Different types of seafood, like shrimp, octopus, or anchovies, served with olive oil, garlic, and herbs.
The combinations are endless, and many bacari will surprise you with creative, seasonal ingredients.
How to Experience Cicchetti in Venice?
The best way to enjoy cicchetti is to visit a local bacaro – a traditional Venetian bar that specializes in these small snacks. The atmosphere in a bacaro is casual and friendly. Often, you’ll find locals standing at the bar, chatting with friends, and enjoying a quick bite along with a glass of wine. These bars have a relaxed, informal vibe, and you can order as few or as many cicchetti as you want.
To fully experience cicchetti, it’s common to go on a bacaro tour, where you visit multiple bacari in one evening. This way, you can try different kinds of cicchetti and explore different parts of the city. It’s a fun and social way to dine, where you move from one bar to another, tasting a few cicchetti at each stop and perhaps enjoying a glass of ombra (a small glass of local wine) with each dish.
Where to Find the Best Cicchetti in Venice?
Well, it’s a tough thing to say because Venice is full of fantastic places where you can try cicchetti. But after researching a lot and drawing from personal experience, I’ve selected five spots where you’ll find some of the best cicchetti in the city. Each of these places has its own charm and offers a unique taste of Venetian flavors, so you can’t go wrong with any of them!
Cantina Do Spade – This is a historic bacaro located near the Rialto Market. It’s known for its wide selection of cicchetti and its cozy, welcoming atmosphere. You can try classics like baccalà mantecato or enjoy fried seafood while standing at the bar.
All’Arco – A small but popular spot, All’Arco is beloved by both locals and tourists for its fresh seafood cicchetti. It’s a great place to stop after visiting the nearby Rialto Bridge and market. Try the marinated sardines or the delicious crostini with anchovies.
Bacaro da Lele – This bacaro is known for being budget-friendly, offering a wide variety of affordable cicchetti. It’s popular with students and visitors who want to experience Venice like a local. Try their meatball cicchetti or a simple but delicious slice of bread topped with prosciutto and cheese.
Osteria Al Squero – Located in Dorsoduro, this bacaro has a fantastic view of a gondola repair yard, offering a perfect place to sit and enjoy your cicchetti. They serve a variety of tasty options, from seafood to vegetarian dishes, and the setting by the canal adds to the charm.
Antico Dolo – A favorite among locals, this bacaro serves traditional Venetian cicchetti in an authentic setting. You’ll find some of the best polpette here, along with other classic dishes like marinated seafood and cured meats.
When and How to Eat Cicchetti
Cicchetti is typically enjoyed during the late morning (before lunch) or in the early evening (before dinner). In Venice, people often stop by a bacaro for a quick snack and a drink, either as a light lunch or as an appetizer before a bigger meal later on. But there are no strict rules! You can enjoy cicchetti at any time of the day, depending on when you feel like having a snack.
It’s common to stand at the counter or take your plate to a nearby table or bench if the bacaro is crowded. Many places serve cicchetti to-go as well, so you can enjoy your snack while strolling through Venice’s picturesque streets.
The Charm of Cicchetti
What makes cicchetti so special is the way it connects you to Venice. Each dish reflects the city’s rich heritage, where fresh, local ingredients are celebrated. It’s also a very social experience. Eating cicchetti allows you to slow down, enjoy small bites of flavor, and share the moment with friends, family, or even fellow travelers. It’s a tradition that captures the essence of Venice – simple yet elegant, relaxed yet full of life.
So, when you’re in Venice, don’t miss the chance to try cicchetti. It’s more than just food – it’s a way to experience the culture, flavors, and soul of the city in every bite.
