One of my favorite things to do when I head to Spain was a snack trip. I like to try different little bites to learn about the culture of the places I visit. When I traveled to Italy, it made me happy that the culinary scene in Venice offers a pleasant tradition of competing with the Spanish snack: cicchetti. These small and delicious bites reveal the city’s rich culinary heritage.
What is Cicchetti?
Cicchetti (pronounced “Chee-ket-tee”) is a range of bite-sized snacks or side dishes that are traditionally enjoyed in the cozy Bacari of Venice (bar), but don’t mistake them for mere bar snacks. These small plates are filled with Venetian culinary traditions, ready for the day with everything fresh and seasonal.
These debris range from creamy crusty breads coated on top to pickled artichokes glittering in olive oil, or soft shrimp skewers with the right citrus kiss, each offering a whiff of authentic Venetian flavor.
Affordable indulgence
One of the things I like most about introducing clients to Cicchetti is that it’s not about chasing the “perfect” dish. It’s about slowing down, tasting, and soaking in the atmosphere of these joyful little bars.
For just a few euros per dish, you can prey on its quiet corners in Venice. I often recommend that you combine your Cicchetti with ombra– A small glass of local wine. The name goes back to when wine merchants moved their carts to Piazza San Marco, leaving them in the shadows (ombra) Keep the wine cool. Today, a ombra Cicchetti is still a typical Venetian pairing.
Where to taste cicchetti
Despite the lot of Bacari to explore, I have shared some tried and authentic favorites with clients (no, you can’t find them on typical tourist trails):
- Osteria al Portegotucked near the Rialto Bridge, is one of those places where you feel you stumbled upon a locals rather keeping your own stuff. There are many kinds of Cicchetti here, with an active but simple atmosphere.
- My other favorite stay is Cantina makes a peachThis is a historic attraction that has been serving in Cicchetti since the 15th century. Their fried meatballs and seafood skewers are legendary, and it’s the ideal fuel for strolling along the winding driveways of Venice at night.
Cicchetti crawl – Venetian way
When I planned Cicchetti crawls for clients, I encouraged them to skip the “organized” group trip and let me design something private and personal. Whether it’s two casual nights or celebrating with friends, from Bacaro to Bacaro is a wonderful way to experience Venice like a local – food that is deeply connected with the identity of the city.
Let me take you there
Venice rewards those willing to go down the road, and Cicchetti is one of the most enjoyable ways to do that. When I design your trip to Venice, I will make sure you are a delicious tradition tailored to a relaxing, authentic and suitable for your taste.
So when it is done in Venetians, do it in Venetians: indulge in Siccheti, drink local wines, and taste the rich flavors that make the city a cuisine. I’m here to make it happen when you’re ready to start planning your next Venetian adventure. Contact Us Plan your next visit to Venice!
