food-culture

Venice Cicchetti

Cicchetti are Venice's answer to tapas: small plates served at bacari (traditional wine bars) across the city. From crostini topped with creamed salt cod (baccala mantecato) to fried mozzarella and sardines in saor, these bite-sized dishes are the backbone of Venetian social life. A typical giro d'ombra (shadow tour) involves hopping between bacari in San Polo and Cannaregio, ordering a glass of house wine and a few cicchetti at each stop.

Must Try

  • Baccala mantecato
  • Sarde in saor
  • Polpette
  • Tramezzini
  • Folpetti

Frequently Asked Questions

2 Questions

What are cicchetti?

Cicchetti are small snacks or side dishes served at Venetian bacari (wine bars). Think of them as Venice's version of Spanish tapas. They range from simple crostini with toppings to fried items and small plates of seafood.

Where are the best cicchetti bars in Venice?

The Rialto market area in San Polo has the highest concentration of traditional bacari. All'Arco, Do Mori, and Cantina Do Spade are local favorites. In Cannaregio, try Un Mondo di Vino or Al Timon along Fondamenta della Misericordia.