Cicchetti

Taking the number one spot in our list, Cicchetti stands out as the Venetian answer to tapas. These small bites are a mirror of Venetian tradition. Walk into a bacaro, the Venetian bar, and you're in for a treat. It's where locals stand and chat with a drink in one hand and a cicchetto in the other.

Let's zoom in. You see a plate of crostini, little toasts. On top, there's a spread made from creamy cod, known as baccalà mantecato. It's salty and rich. And it's been a staple since sailors brought salted cod from the north.

Next, consider the polpette. In Venice, these are not your usual meatballs. They're flavored with garlic, herbs, and sometimes a touch of cheese. And they're often served hot, straight from the pan. Besides, seafood is the star of many cicchetti. Picture small, shiny sardines. They're marinated in sweet onions and vinegar. This dish, 'sarde in saor,' dates back to when Venice ruled the spice trade.

Vegetables get their spotlight, too. Artichoke hearts, tender and tangy sit pretty on the plate. They show off Venice's love for fresh, local produce. It's the kind of snack you pick up with your fingers, popping it into your mouth as you laugh with friends.

With just 1 euro, you can grab a simple bite. A little more, up to 5 euros, can get you something special like seafood. It's affordable. It lets you try multiple dishes without emptying your wallet.

The magic of cicchetti is in the variety. Each bacaro has its secrets. One might serve a cicchetto topped with a spicy slice of soppressa, a local salami. Another might surprise you with a mouthful of marinated octopus.

Key Takeaways

• Flavor: The salty tang of anchovies, the rich creaminess of cheese.
• Ingredients: Fresh seafood (sardines, shrimp), vegetables.
• Price: as little as 1 euro for a simple cicchetto to around 5 euros for more elaborate or seafood-rich options.