What is Venetian Cicchetti?

Cicchetti is a variety of savory finger food popular in Venice, Italy. They are eaten in very small portions, accompanied by wine.

They are the Venetian version of tapas and can be found only in traditional Venetian taverns called bacari.

Bacari refers to old taverns though today, they function as wine bars. Besides being eaten with the hands, they are also eaten while standing up, the idea being that they can be eaten in such a way that it doesn’t stop the ability to socialize.

The word ‘cicchetti’ is believed to come from the Latin word ciccus which means nothing or little. Cicchetti is a Venetian tradition and is only found in Venice.

Cichetti is appealing because they are affordable and so numerous that there are endless combinations to enjoy. The are also an easy way to enjoy and move around town without having to spend a lot of time eating an entire meal.

Due to their small size, cicchetti can be confused for appetizers which in turn gets confused as an aperitivo due to how close the names are. Appetizers in Italian are called antipasto, meaning before meal. It is not as small as cicchetti and is eaten with the expectation that another, larger course will follow.

Aperitivo is a low alcohol beverage meant to satiate the appetite. The aperitivo can also include food when served with a drink and can be enjoyed with the antipasto. Cicchetti is paired with wine and are meant as a snack but when many are eaten treated like a small meal of its own.

Popular Types of Cicchetti

There are a wide variety of cicchetti including vegetable cicchetti which include olives, fried zucchini, and zucchini blossoms, various soft and hard cheeses. Other popular choices are crostini or spreads over bread or polenta.

Meat Cicchetti

Meat cicchetti offerings include fried or baked meatballs called polpette, small pieces of offal cuts like liver and rumegal which is made from cows’ stomach and cured, sliced deli style meats.

Seafood Cicchetti

Seafood cicchetti include anchovies, beans and tuna and baccala which is salted cod, pictured above. Other popular offerings are sardines or fried seafood like squid and calamari.

Egg Cicchetti

Typical egg cicchetti are usually made with boiled eggs cut in half and seasoned and served with toppings like onions, capers and nuts, to name a few. Soft egg cicchetti are typically served on bread.