This trip to Venice was special because it marked the launch of our new format Alla Nostra. We wanted to experience the city our way, stepping into the bacari, those traditional bars where you sip an ombre of wine and enjoy small bites called cicchetti. They are very similar to Spanish tapas, which is why many also call them Venetian tapas. And we told it just as we lived it: walking along the canals, stopping at the places that inspired us the most, and tasting what Venetians truly enjoy. This is how our route of cicchetti and bacari in Venice began.
The video is in Spanish, but Google auto-generated subtitles are available.
The most popular stop: Bacareto da Lele
We started at Bacareto da Lele, perhaps the most famous bacaro in the city. Here everything is quick, cheap, and uncomplicated: in just a few minutes you have a couple of sandwiches in your hand, a glass of wine, and you can keep exploring Venice. We tried a porchetta sandwich with mustard and another with pancetta and artichokes, accompanied by wine and a mini spritz with Select. It’s not a gourmet place, but it’s perfect for something fast, affordable, and authentic.
Adriatico Mar: polenta and cod
Next, we headed to Adriatico Mar, a more refined spot. There we tried polenta with cod, and another with herring and onions. Two very typical Venetian dishes, carefully prepared. The atmosphere was delightful and the wine selection excellent. Although the menu was short, each dish was so tasty that it left us wanting to return. For those who want to discover a more delicate side of Venetian tradition, it is highly recommended.
All’Arco: classic cicchetti
In the heart of Venice, we stopped at All’Arco, a traditional bacaro. Here we ordered two cicchetti: one with baccalà alla vicentina and another with gorgonzola and anchovy. Simple, but made with high-quality ingredients. Sometimes nothing more is needed: good products, a friendly atmosphere, and the feeling of being in one of those timeless places that are always worth it.
Bacarando in Corte dell’Orso
Near the Rialto Bridge we found Bacarando in Corte dell’Orso. Here the selection was broad and varied: we tried a meatball reminiscent of a croquette, mozzarella with squid ink, and a sardine in saor, the Venetian recipe with that characteristic sweet-and-sour touch. It was a different stop, with offerings that introduced us to new flavors without losing the spirit of the bacari.
Estro Pane e Vino in Cannaregio
In the Cannaregio district we discovered Estro Pane e Vino. We were impressed by their carefully crafted cicchetti, original combinations, and spectacular sourdough bread. We tried an egg cream with asparagus, a spicy tramezzino, and another with spinach, puzzone cheese, and cooked ham. Everything was made with such care that it showed in every detail. Without a doubt, it was one of the places that convinced us the most.
Vino Vero, another gem of Cannaregio
Very close by, also in Cannaregio, we found Vino Vero. There we opted for more creative cicchetti: octopus with hummus, carpaccio with mustard, and a delicate tartare. The wine list was of the highest level, focusing on natural and biodynamic wines. A place that blends tradition and innovation with great success.
Our ranking of cicchetti and bacari in Venice
At the end of the day we made our personal ranking.
- A special mention for Bacareto da Lele, perfect for those who want something quick and affordable in Venice.
- In fourth place we left All’Arco, with its well-done simplicity.
- In third place we put Adriatico Mar, where the polenta won us over.
- In second place was Vino Vero, thanks to its creative offerings and natural wines.
- And at the top of our list: Estro Pane e Vino, for the quality of its cicchetti, the curated atmosphere, and the feeling of having found a truly special spot in Venice.
The map
Alla Nostra, also in Venice
This tour of the bacari was not just about eating and drinking. It was about discovering Venice in another way, through its most authentic bars. Alla Nostra is precisely that: to toast, to share, and to tell the experience just as we lived it. If you want to keep discovering more Italian cities and their flavors, subscribe to our YouTube channel so you don’t miss the next episodes. And if you’re planning your own route of cicchetti and bacari in Venice, we hope this diary will help you enjoy it your way.
Alla Nostra!