Travel Journal

Venice is a city built on water, history, and flavor and nothing captures its essence quite like its “cicchetti”, the traditional small plates served in cozy taverns across the lagoon. While these dishes reflect centuries of culinary heritage, they are the places where you enjoy them, the atmospheric bacari scattered across the city, that make the experience truly unforgettable.

Here’s a guide to the best bacari in Venice to enjoy the iconic cicchetti.

Cantina Do Mori

No list of cicchetti spots would be complete without Cantina Do Mori, Venice’s oldest bacaro, operating since 1462. Just steps from the bustling Rialto Market, this dimly lit bar is pure history, with copper pots hanging from the ceiling and old barrels lining the walls. Here, you’ll find an ever-changing selection of classic cicchetti, like baccalà mantecato (creamed cod), salami sandwiches, and marinated vegetables, all served quickly over the counter. The wine flows generously, and the mix of locals and tourists gives the place a lively, communal vibe.

All’Arco

Just around the corner is All’Arco, a family-run bacaro that’s become a must-visit for food lovers. This tiny spot is packed by noon, with Venetians stopping in for a quick bite before heading back to work. The cicchetti here are made with fresh market ingredients and a lot of care: slices of crusty bread topped with combinations like tuna and leek, prosciutto with ricotta, or shrimp and citrus. What sets All’Arco apart is its authenticity and simple, flavorful bites made with love, served in a place that feels like a second home to many locals.

Osteria Bancogiro

For those looking to combine traditional cicchetti with a beautiful view, Osteria Bancogiro is a top pick. Located just behind the Rialto, this elegant yet relaxed osteria overlooks the Grand Canal. You can sit outside and watch boats pass by while enjoying a refined take on classic dishes. The cicchetti menu includes both traditional offerings and modern creations, like octopus carpaccio, smoked duck breast, or soft burrata with anchovies. With its mix of old-world charm and contemporary flair, Bancogiro is ideal for those who want a slightly elevated cicchetti experience.

Al Timon

Located in the Cannaregio district, away from the more crowded tourist paths, Al Timon offers a vibrant, youthful energy. It’s especially popular in the evenings when locals gather outside along the canal, glasses in hand and cicchetti plates balancing on the edge of boats moored nearby. Al Timon is known for its hearty meat cicchetti, like grilled skewers, spicy salami, and generous crostini, as well as its spritzes and natural wines. The laid-back atmosphere makes it one of the most fun places in Venice to snack, sip, and soak up the local vibe.

Vino Vero

Also in Cannaregio is Vino Vero, a small, stylish bar that elevates cicchetti to an art form. This isn’t the place for deep-fried snacks or rustic spreads; here, cicchetti are delicate and seasonal, with ingredients like beetroot cream, gorgonzola mousse, or roasted pumpkin with pancetta. Vino Vero is also known for its exceptional wine list, with natural and biodynamic wines from across Italy and beyond. It’s a great stop for foodies looking to taste cicchetti with thoughtful wine pairings in a refined yet unpretentious setting.

Antiche Carampane

Tucked away in a quiet corner near San Polo, Antiche Carampane is technically a trattoria , but its small bar and informal cicchetti offerings make it worth including. This place is all about seafood, the freshest squid, shrimp, and clams prepared in the Venetian tradition. While it’s a bit more upscale, you can still pop in for a glass of white wine and a couple of seafood bites at the bar if you’re not staying for a full meal. It’s a perfect way to enjoy the culinary skill of one of Venice’s top kitchens without the full commitment.

Enjoying Italian Wine at Fiumicino Airport

While traveling to Venice, don’t miss the chance to enjoy some authentic Italian wine at Fiumicino Airport. The wine bars located near the terminals offer a welcoming atmosphere and a wide selection of renowned Italian wines, perfect for a relaxing break before your flight. You’ll find everything from regional favorites to prestigious labels, including specialties like Berlucchi, a sparkling wine that embodies the excellence of Italian winemaking.

Ultimately, the best way to experience cicchetti is to do as the Venetians do: “andar per Bacari” which means to go bacaro-hopping. No map, no plan, just wander from one place to another, letting the flavors and the streets guide you. So, grab an ombra of wine, choose a few plates, and dive into Venice’s tastiest, most authentic ritual.

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