Cicchetti (pronounced “chi-KET-tee”) are small snacks or side dishes (Venetian tapas?) that are typically served in traditional “bàcari” (cicchetti bars or osterie) in Venice, Italy. They are similar in concept to Spanish tapas and are usually eaten accompanied by a small glass of wine, called an “ombra”.
Common cicchetti include tiny sandwiches, plates of olives or other vegetables, halved hard-boiled eggs, small servings of a combination of one or more of seafood, meat and vegetable ingredients laid on top of a slice of bread or polenta. Like Spanish tapas, one can also make a meal of cicchetti by ordering multiple plates.
Here is a list of several popular bars that offer Chiccheti in Venice:
- Osteria all’Arco is a standing-room-only bar that serves some of the best cicchetti in Venice.
- Cantina do Spade is a gem of a cicchetti bar located in Venice’s winding streets.
- Al Mercà is a popular spot where crowds vie for the chance to enjoy little sandwiches and big wines.
- Vino Vero is a bar that serves only natural wines and offers a selection of delicious cicchetti.
- Salvmeria is another great place to enjoy cicchetti in Venice.