Venice, a city of meandering canals and romantic gondolas, is a culinary wonderland to explore. As you wander through its winding streets, you'll discover the hidden gems of Venetian cuisine, the bacari. These traditional wine bars offer the perfect opportunity to savour the mouth-watering cicchetti, the Venetian answer to Spanish tapas. So, join us as we take you on a cicchetti crawl through the enchanting city of Venice and introduce you to the best bacari worth visiting.

Here’s a guide to some of the best bacari and their must-try cicchetti:

Cantina Do Mori (San Polo, 429)

Established in 1462, Cantina Do Mori is the oldest bacaro in Venice. Steeped in history, this cozy wine bar is famed for its delectable cicchetti, including classics like sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines) and baccalà mantecato (whipped salt cod). Pair your snacks with a glass of ombra (local wine) and soak in the authentic Venetian atmosphere.

All’Arco (San Polo, 436)

Just a stone's throw from the Rialto Market, All’Arco is a bustling bacaro popular among both locals and tourists. Known for its exquisite selection of cicchetti, All’Arco serves up a variety of creative bites, from crostini with baccalà mantecato to bite-sized sandwiches filled with marinated artichokes and prosciutto. Don’t forget to sample their house-made wines, served straight from the barrel.

Osteria Al Squero (Dorsoduro, 943-944)

Overlooking the picturesque Squero di San Trovaso, one of Venice's last remaining gondola workshops, Osteria Al Squero offers a scenic spot to enjoy your cicchetti. Choose from an array of delectable bites, such as mozzarella in carrozza, polpette (meatballs), and their signature Venetian tramezzini. Pair these delights with a refreshing spritz or a glass of Prosecco.

Vino Vero (Cannaregio, 2497)

Located along the picturesque Fondamenta Misericordia, Vino Vero is a contemporary bacaro that prides itself on offering an extensive selection of natural wines. Their cicchetti menu is equally impressive, featuring traditional options like baccalà mantecato and more adventurous choices, such as blue cheese and pear crostini. With its relaxed ambiance and canal-side seating, Vino Vero is the perfect spot for a leisurely evening with friends.

Al Timon (Cannaregio, 2754)

A popular hangout spot for locals, Al Timon is a lively bacaro with an inviting atmosphere. This bustling wine bar is famous for its cicchetti, particularly the succulent beef skewers and marinated seafood. Enjoy your cicchetti on board their bragozzo, a traditional wooden boat moored along the canal, while sipping on a glass of wine from their extensive list.

La Ciurma (San Polo, 406)

La Ciurma is a charming little bacaro offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the San Polo district. This family-run spot is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of Venice while savoring an array of delicious cicchetti. Highlights include smoked tuna with orange zest and their selection of crostini topped with various kinds of cheese, cured meats, and fresh vegetables. Pair these tasty bites with a glass of local wine, handpicked by knowledgeable staff.

Bacaro Da Me Pare (San Marco 881)

Bacaro Da Me Pare is a hidden gem that embodies the spirit of Venetian bacari. Known for its friendly service and delicious cicchetti, this spot offers a delightful selection of bites such as creamy baccalà, marinated anchovies, and prosciutto-wrapped figs. Their spritzes are some of the best in town, making it a fantastic stop for an authentic Venetian experience.

Cantina Aziende Agricole (Cannaregio, 429)

Tucked away in the vibrant Cannaregio district, Cantina Aziende Agricole is a gem for those seeking a more intimate and authentic bacaro experience. This tiny wine bar is renowned for its carefully curated selection of organic wines and its emphasis on farm-to-table ingredients. Among the must-try cicchetti are the gorgonzola and walnut crostini, the marinated anchovies, and the daily specials, which showcase the freshest seasonal produce. Immerse yourself in the warm and convivial atmosphere of Cantina Aziende Agricole, and enjoy a truly memorable Venetian culinary experience.

Tips for Enjoying Bacari and Cicchetti in Venice

Time It Right: Many bacari are busiest during the early evening, especially between 6:00 and 8:00 PM, when locals enjoy an aperitivo. Arrive early to beat the crowds. My personal favourite time is in the Morning before 12 Noon!!!
Go Local: Don’t be afraid to ask the staff for their recommendations. They’ll often suggest the freshest or most popular cicchetti of the day.
Pair Wisely: Venetian wines like Prosecco, Soave, or a glass of ombra pair perfectly with most cicchetti. For something different, try a classic spritz.
Try a Bacaro Tour: If you’re feeling adventurous, create your own bacaro crawl and visit several spots in one evening for a truly immersive experience.

Venice’s bacari and cicchetti culture is a window into the city’s soul, offering an authentic taste of its history, flavors, and convivial spirit. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, these spots are sure to make your Venetian adventure unforgettable.

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