Millions of tourists flock to Venice each year to explore beyond the Grand Canal or just enjoy a romantic sejour. But, what else would draw them to the most romantic city in Italy if not for that? Easy! Venice offers culinary diversity, creativity, and tradition all in one. Well, to be fair, the whole country too. Out of all these factors, there is one thing that makes Venice a fantastic treasure for foodies: the best cicchetti.
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What are cicchetti?
Cicchetti are small and tasty bites served in bars throughout Venice. The word itself comes from the Venetian dialect and means tempting little bites. Olives, cheese, different types of meats or fish, or small sandwiches can make them. The point is that people enjoy sharing them with friends while having drinks as a casual and social way to savor different flavors.
Where Do Cicchetti Come From?
The city of Venice in Italy is where its origins can be found. The term is linked to the word “cicciare,” which means to snare or to tangle. Indeed, it conveys the idea of savoring small, tempting bites with others. In that sense, eating petite, shareable dishes in social settings became a unique aspect of the city’s culinary culture. However, we must mention that similar traditions exist in other parts of Italy and are known by different names, such as “antipasti” in general Italian cuisine.
Venice is known for its impressive food culture and its cicchetti tradition. In addition, small bars called “bacari” play a key role in serving these tasty small bites. But also botegòn, cantina, enotecas or osteria keep up the tradition.
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How Many Types of Cicchetti Are There?
In the food realm, there are no strict limits on variations. They can be as diverse as our preferences, available local products, or even how creative chefs get. Being simply a mix of small, appetizer-style dishes, every cook might have his own version.
In general terms, they may include bruschetta, panini (small sandwich), olives, cheese, cured meats, seafood, and much more. Some real examples are baccalà mantecato (creamed cod), polpette (meatballs), and frittelle (small fritters). In Venice and similar places, you’ll discover special local versions of cicchetti. Don’t be surprised to find lots of them; the scene always changes with new ideas. After all, variety is why we love this Italian dining style. Don’t you think?
Tapas or Cicchetti: Are They the Same?
If you’ve been to Europe and Spain, you know how delicious and skillfully they like to prepare their food. And the concept of small, flavorful bites with drinks is common in both of these Mediterranean nations. Even in Spanish bars, they make the experience better by serving small appetizers with drinks. Venice has a similar vibe, offering a wide range of colorful small plates at prices that all can afford. What makes them distinctive is that they vary based on seasons, regional ingredients, and culinary influences. We can say then that tapas and cicchetti share a similar idea, but their ingredients are so diverse to have much in common.
Cicchetti is Venice’s way of serving small plates, similar to aperitivo in Florence and Bologna, the famous tapas in Spain, mezze in the Middle East, and dim sum in China.
Now, let’s talk about where you’ll find and eat the best cicchetti in Venice!
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Where to Find the Best Cicchetti in Venice?
Osteria Al Squero
Bacareto da Lele
Cantina Do Spade
The food is really good, and the service is friendly. Even if you’re not a food expert, the staff can help you choose. They even give you a free liqueur with your meal, even when they keep their prices fair and honest. It’s worth checking it out, some of the best cicchetti, amazing local wine, and friendly staff. It used to be a hidden gem, but nowadays it can get busy, especially during meals, so checking ahead may be a good idea.
Ostaria dai Zemei
Small, tasty cicchetti options like tuna with pickles and spiced salami. The place can get busy but not overwhelming, with locals and tourists both inside and outside. The service is excellent, and the drinks, including local beer and Aperol Spritz are highly praised.
Are Cicchetti Worth Trying on Your Visit?
Venice, with its history of trade and cultural blending, has a diverse cuisine marked by many cultures. Over time, cicchetti became a way for Venetians to enjoy small, tasty dishes while socializing in osterias and bars across the city. They’re a way to let locals display ingredients like seafood from the Adriatic Sea, and show off the skills and creativity of cooks.
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