Venice Like a Local: The Art of the Cicchetti Experience

When I travel to Spain, one of my favorite things to do is a Tapas tour.  I love trying different small bites to get to know the culture of the places I visit.  When I travel to Italy, it makes me so happy that Venice’s culinary scene offers a delightful tradition that rivals Spain’s tapas: cicchetti. These small, flavorful bites reveal the city’s rich gastronomic heritage.

What are Cicchetti?

Cicchetti (pronounced “chee-KET-tee”) are an array of bite-sized snacks or side dishes, traditionally enjoyed in Venice’s cozy bacari (wine bars) — but don’t mistake them for mere bar snacks. These small plates are steeped in Venetian culinary traditions, lovingly prepared with whatever is fresh and seasonal that day.

These morsels range from crusty bread topped with creamy spreads to marinated artichokes glistening with olive oil, or a skewer of plump shrimp with just the right kiss of citrus, each offering a burst of authentic Venetian flavor.

Affordable Indulgence

One of the things I love most about introducing my clients to cicchetti is that it’s not about chasing down the “perfect” dish. It’s about slowing down, tasting as you go, and soaking in the atmosphere of these convivial little bars.

For just a few euros per plate, you can graze your way through Venice while discovering its quieter corners. I often recommend pairing your cicchetti with an ombra—a small glass of local wine. The name dates back to when wine merchants would move their carts around the Piazza San Marco, staying in the shade (ombra) to keep their wines cool. Today, an ombra and cicchetti remain a quintessential Venetian pairing.

Where to Savor Cicchetti

While there are many bacari worth exploring, I have a few tried-and-true favorites I share with my clients (and no, you won’t find them on the typical tourist trail):

• Osteria al Portego, tucked away near the Rialto Bridge, is one of those spots where you feel like you’ve stumbled upon something locals would rather keep to themselves. The variety of cicchetti here is outstanding, and the atmosphere is lively but unpretentious.
• Another favorite stop of mine is Cantina Do Spade, a historic spot that’s been serving cicchetti since the 15th century. Their fried meatballs and seafood skewers are legendary—and the perfect fuel for an evening stroll through Venice’s winding lanes.

A Cicchetti Crawl—The Venetian Way

When I plan a cicchetti crawl for my clients, I encourage them to skip the “organized” group tours and let me design something private and personal. Whether it’s a casual evening for two, or a celebration with friends, hopping from bacaro to bacaro is a wonderful way to experience Venice as locals do—through conversation, laughter, and food that is deeply tied to the city’s identity.

Let Me Take You There

Venice rewards those who are willing to step off the beaten path, and cicchetti is one of the most enjoyable ways to do just that. When I design your trip to Venice, I’ll ensure you experience this delicious tradition in a way that feels effortless, authentic, and perfectly tailored to your tastes.

So, when in Venice, do as the Venetians do: indulge in cicchetti, sip on local wines, and savor the rich flavors that make this city a gastronomic treasure trove. And when you’re ready to start planning your next Venetian adventure, I’m here to make it happen. Contact us to plan your next visit to Venice!