What is Cicchetti? Understanding Venice’s Beloved Small Plates

Venice, the enchanting city of canals, gondolas, and historic charm, has more to offer than stunning sights: it’s also a paradise for food lovers. Among its culinary treasures are cicchetti, a tradition that captures the essence of Venetian life. Much like Spanish tapas, these small plates reflect the city’s unique blend of local ingredients, maritime influences, and social culture. If you’re wandering through Venice’s narrow streets and stepping into a cozy bacaro(wine bar), cicchetti are likely to be at the heart of the experience.

Cicchetti (pronounced chi-KET-tee) are small, shareable dishes served in Venetian bacari. These bars are casual spots where locals gather for a glass of wine or ombra (a small serving of local wine) and light bites. Cicchetti can range from simple to elaborate and are typically enjoyed standing at the counter or seated at communal tables.

The beauty of cicchetti lies in their variety. From fresh seafood to savory cured meats, creamy spreads, and fried delicacies, there’s something to please every palate. Commonly served on slices of crusty bread, skewers, or as bite-sized portions, cicchetti are designed to be informal and satisfying: and unlike a full meal, they are meant to complement your drink, making them an integral part of Venice’s vibrant aperitivo culture.

In Venice, cicchetti are more than just a snack—they’re a way of life. Their origins can be traced back to the city’s history as a bustling maritime hub, where merchants and sailors would grab quick, hearty bites in between trading. Today, the tradition lives on, deeply embedded in the Venetian rhythm of life.

The bacari where cicchetti are served are social hubs. Locals stop by after work or during a leisurely afternoon to catch up with friends, exchange stories, and unwind. Cicchetti are often paired with an ombra, which translates to “shadow,” referring to the custom of drinking wine in the shade of Venice’s iconic bell towers.

For tourists, indulging in cicchetti offers a glimpse into Venice’s authentic culinary and social culture. It’s an antidote to tourist menus and an opportunity to connect with the locals over a glass of wine and a shared love for good food.

Cicchetti showcase Venice’s rich culinary heritage and love for fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here are some of the most popular dishes to sample:

Bacalà Mantecato
This creamy, whipped salt cod spread is a Venetian classic. Typically served on slices of toasted bread or polenta, baccalà mantecato is smooth, flavorful, and utterly satisfying.

Sarde in Saor
A sweet and sour dish of sardines marinated with onions, vinegar, raisins, and pine nuts. This centuries-old recipe highlights Venice’s seafaring history and love for bold flavors.

Polpette
These delicious meatballs can be made with various ingredients, including beef, pork, fish, or even vegetables. They’re often fried to golden perfection and served with a dipping sauce.

Fried Delicacies
Venetians love fried foods, and cicchetti often include crispy treats like mozzarella in carrozza (fried mozzarella sandwiches), arancini (fried rice balls), or battered seafood like calamari and shrimp.

Local Cheeses and Cured Meats
Venice’s proximity to the Veneto region means easy access to top-quality cheeses like Asiago and Montasio, as well as cured meats like soppressata and prosciutto.

Seek out authentic bacari
Venetians tend to frequent smaller, hidden bacari tucked away from tourist-heavy areas. Look for bars with a lively atmosphere, local patrons, and a counter brimming with fresh cicchetti options.

Order a variety
Cicchetti are all about variety. Don’t be shy about trying a mix of flavors and textures. Order a few different dishes to share with friends, or sample several smaller portions to find your favorites.

Pair with the right drink
Traditionally, cicchetti are paired with an ombra or a glass of Aperol Spritz. Both are light and refreshing, enhancing the flavors of the small plates without overpowering them.

Go with the flow
Cicchetti culture is casual and communal. Stand at the bar, chat with the bartender, and savor your food without rushing. This is a time to relax and soak in the Venetian vibe.

Embrace the Crawl
Known as a bacarotour, this involves visiting multiple bacari in one evening, sampling a few cicchetti and drinks at each stop. It’s a fun and delicious way to explore the city while enjoying its culinary offerings.

Timing Matters
Cicchetti are typically served during the aperitivo hours, from late afternoon to early evening. Plan your visit accordingly to enjoy the freshest offerings and the lively bacaro ambiance.