Location: Venice, Italy
Great for: Singles, Couples, Groups, Families, and Honeymooners
Ah, Venice – a city where every corner tells a story, and every sip of wine feels like a symphony for the senses. But if you truly want to unlock the essence of Venetian culture, there's one experience that simply can't be missed: Bacaro hopping! Picture this: meandering through narrow cobblestone alleyways and stumbling upon cozy little wine bars known as bacari.
Here, amidst the clinking of glasses and lively chatter of locals, you'll discover the heart and soul of Venice. From savory bites of baccalà mantecato to the tantalizing allure of sarde in saor, each cicchetto (we would call it a small bite) is a culinary adventure waiting to be savored. So, if you're ready to embark on a gastronomic journey filled with laughter, flavors, and a touch of Venetian magic.
While the term "bacaro" specifically refers to traditional Venetian wine bars, similar concepts can be found in other regions of Italy, although with different names. In Venice, the bacaro culture is deeply rooted in the city's history and tradition, offering a unique experience with cicchetti and ombra (wine by the glass).
In other parts of Italy, especially in regions like Emilia-Romagna, Tuscany, and Piedmont, you'll find similar establishments known as "enotecas" (wine bars) or "osterias" (taverns) where you can enjoy local wines paired with regional specialties. These places may offer their own version of small bites or appetizers, often reflecting the local culinary traditions.
So while the term "bacaro" is specific to Venice, the concept of enjoying wine and small bites in a casual setting can be found throughout Italy, each with its own regional flair.
Types of Cicchetti
Cicchetti comes in a variety of forms, reflecting the rich culinary heritage of Venice. Here are some common types of cicchetti you might find:
Sarde in Saor: Fried sardines marinated in a sweet and sour sauce made with onions, vinegar, raisins, and pine nuts.
Baccalà Mantecato: Salted cod whipped into a creamy spread, often served on crostini.
Polpette: Small meatballs made from a mixture of ground meat, breadcrumbs, and spices, usually fried and served with toothpicks.
Tramezzini: Small triangular sandwiches made with soft, crustless white bread and filled with various ingredients such as tuna, prosciutto, or cheese.
Crostini: Slices of toasted bread topped with a variety of spreads or toppings, such as creamy cheeses, seafood, or cured meats.
Gamberetti: Marinated shrimp or prawns, often served cold and seasoned with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs.
Baccalà Fritto: Fried salted cod, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, usually served with a squeeze of lemon.
Sopressa: Thinly sliced cured meats, similar to salami or soppressata, served on small plates or skewered with toothpicks.
Mozzarella in Carrozza: Deep-fried mozzarella sandwiches, where slices of mozzarella cheese are sandwiched between bread, dipped in egg, and fried until golden and gooey.
Frittelle: Savory or sweet fritters made with ingredients like vegetables, seafood, or even chocolate, often enjoyed as a snack or dessert.
Are you hungry yet? I am! These are just a few examples and the selection can vary from place to place, and part of the fun is trying a variety of small bites paired with local wines or a cocktail. My sardine cicchetti was amazing!
Where to Experience Bacaro Culture
These places are everywhere and you can walk right up to a window display many times to see what is offered. You will find Chcchetti prices between 2-6 euros and Wind from 3- 6 euros. Cocktails vary. Here a few Bacari to try.
Cantina Do Mori
Address: Sestiere San Polo, 429, 30125 Venice, Italy
Osteria Al Squero
Address: Dorsoduro, 943, 30123 Venice, Italy
Cantine del Vino Gia Schiavi
Address: Fondamenta Nani, 992, 30123 Venezia VE, Italy
All'Arco
Address: Calle Arco, 436, 30122 Venice, Italy
Cantina Do Spade
Address: San Polo, 860, 30125 Venice, Italy
Ai Do Leoni (Chicchetti and Cocktail Bar) $
Address: Piazza San Marco, 401, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy
Bacaro Risorto
Address: Campo San Giacometto, 122, 30125 Venice, Italy
La Bottiglia (Cold Cuts and Cheese, Natural Wines) $
Address: Calle Crosera, 2327, 30135 Venezia VE, Italy
Al Portego
Address: Calle della Malvasia, 6014, 30122 Venezia VE, Italy
Now that you are armed with the information you need and a list of places to try, all you need is a bit of an appetite and you are ready to experience one of Venice's favorite pastimes!
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