Isabella Miller Venice maintains its reputation for canals yet the authentic identity of the city emerges through its cultural practice of consuming cicchetti (chee-KET-tee) and the traditional wine bars which are called bacari provide this low-cost snack product to their customers. The cicchetti dining ritual enables Venetians to transform their regular city strolls into endless dining experiences which extend throughout their entire city.
Find the Hidden Bacari
You should avoid visiting the tourist sites which appear in St. Mark’s Square. Cannaregio and San Polo streets contain secret bars which use wooden designs that always remain full of patrons. The bars operating in these two districts exist beyond the primary street zones. The historical establishment Cantina Do Mori has functioned since 1462 to offer dining services to its patrons.
Master the “Bacaro Tour”
You should proceed to the next location after you finish your meal at this dining establishment. Bar customers follow the custom which allows them to consume one snack and one small glass of wine before they move to the next bar. The activity allows you to discover the city while enjoying your food.
Try the Baccalà Mantecato
This dish represents the topmost level of cicchetti. The dish consists of whipped salted cod which is served on crusty bread and white polenta. The dish presents a savory and smooth texture which delivers an authentic Venetian culinary experience.
Look for the Toothpicks
The toothpick serves as the means to secure the small items which customers will eat from the cicchetti selection. The restaurant offers customers two food options which include marinated octopus and spicy meatballs (polpette) for social dining with friends.
Eat with Your Eyes
Bacari establishments typically operate without delivering menu options to their customers. You need to move to the glass counter and select the items which you find attractive. The chef selects daily menu items based on his morning market visit to Rialto Market.
Stand at the Counter
The establishment charges an extra fee because table service requires customers to pay for their dining experience. The authentic Venetian dining experience requires you to take your wine and snack to the high counter or outdoor dining space by the canal.
Seasonal Specials
The arrival of spring brings the arrival of lagoon-borne soft-shell crabs known as moeche and the autumn season grants diners access to earthy toppings which feature pumpkin and wild mushrooms that demonstrate the seasonal taste variations of Veneto cuisine.
The Polpette Rule
People should always sample the fried meatballs. The bar employs three various meat options to create its unique meat recipe. The dish provides maximum comfort at minimum expense because it delivers the most filling experience of any item available at the counter.
