Where to eat in Venice
Bacari and Cicchetti: the authentic soul of Venice
Bacari are much more than simple food stops: they represent a true Venetian tradition and a distinctive lifestyle of the lagoon.
The bacaro is a small traditional tavern where locals enjoy an “ombra” of wine accompanied by cicchetti, the iconic Venetian small bites. Displayed at the counter and sold individually, they are usually eaten standing up and often with the hands.
Among the most typical cicchetti to try are sarde in saor (sweet-and-sour sardines), baccalà mantecato (creamed cod), marinated anchovies, cuttlefish, and small lagoon shrimp served with polenta. You will also find meatballs, sandwiches, mozzarella in carrozza, battered vegetables, and many other specialties that vary depending on the bacaro and the season.
Bacari can be found in every Sestiere of Venice, and all you need to do is wander through the calli, campi, and fondamenta to discover them.
Here are some bacari recommended for your trip to Venice.
Hostaria Vecio Biavarol
Santa Croce, 225
11 AM-10 PM / Closed on Tuesdays
In the Sestiere of Santa Croce, near Venice Santa Lucia Railway Station, Hostaria Vecio Biavarol is a small bacaro set inside an old traditional Venetian grocery shop. It offers a selection of classic cicchetti, including crostini with San Daniele raw ham and horseradish cream cheese, as well as meatballs, baccalà mantecato, cheeses, and the ever-present “ombre” of wine and spritz.
Bacareto da Lele
Fondamenta dei Tolentini, 183
6 AM–8 PM / Saturday 6 AM–2 PM / Closed on Sundays
In the Sestiere of Santa Croce, Bacareto da Lele is one of the most iconic bacari in Venice. It is famous for its small sandwiches filled with cured meats, cheeses, or vegetables, typically enjoyed with an “ombra” of wine. Affordable and authentic, it is a must-visit stop for experiencing the true Venetian atmosphere in a simple and local way.
All'Arco
San Polo, 436
10 AM–2.30 PM / Closed on Wednesdays
In the Sestiere of San Polo, All’Arco is one of the most highly regarded bacari in Venice. Its counter offers generous, high-quality cicchetti, ranging from the classic baccalà mantecato and Vicenza-style cod, to sarde in saor and, when available, small octopus (folpetti). All of this is best enjoyed with a glass of wine, perhaps a traditional Glera “col fondo”.
Cantina Do Spade
San Polo, 859
10.00-15.00 / 18.00-22.00
Just a few steps from the Rialto Market, Cantina Do Spade is one of the historic bacari of Venice. Here you can enjoy excellent traditional cicchetti, such as sarde in saor with polenta and baccalà, in a venue whose origins date back as far as the 15th century.
Cantina Do Mori
Calle do Mori, 429
8 AM–7:30 PM / Saturday 8 AM–3 PM
Cantina Do Mori is one of the oldest bacari in Venice. At its counter you will find traditional cicchetti, meatballs, sandwiches, and the famous “francobollo”, a small, richly filled sandwich, perfect to enjoy with an “ombra” of wine.
Al Mercà
Campo Bella Vienna, 213
10 AM–2:30 PM / 6 PM–9 PM / Closed on Sundays
Overlooking Campo Bella Vienna, near the Rialto Market, Al Mercà is one of the smallest bacari in Venice. It is famous for its stuffed sandwiches, including versions with baccalà, and for its meatballs, including vegetarian options, all accompanied by a wide selection of bottled wines.
Osteria Bancogiro
Campo San Giacomo di Rialto, 122
9.00-14.30 / 00.00
Just a few steps from the Rialto Bridge, Osteria Bancogiro is one of the most atmospheric bacari in Venice, overlooking the Grand Canal. It offers excellent cicchetti, from crostini with baccalà mantecato and pancetta to meatballs, all accompanied by a carefully curated selection of local and national wines.
Osteria Bancogiro
Dorsoduro 943
11 AM–9:30 PM / Wednesday 5 PM–9:30 PM
Overlooking one of the last still-active squero, this bacaro stands out for its unique location and authentic atmosphere. The counter offers a wide selection of cicchetti, from classics such as sarde in saor and baccalà, to crostini and sandwiches with more creative combinations. On sunny days, the best way to enjoy them is to sit on the low wall along the canal, with a view of gondolas under construction.
Al Timon
Cannaregio 2754
6 PM–1 AM / Closed on Wednesdays
Along the lively Fondamenta della Misericordia, Timon is one of the most beloved bacari among Venetians. Beyond its unique atmosphere, it offers creative crostini with baccalà, cured meats, cheeses, and refined sauces. On summer evenings, with outdoor tables and a characteristic boat moored along the canal, it delivers a truly special experience.
Rosticceria da Gislon
San Marco 5424a
9.00-21.30
Famous for its mozzarelle in carrozza, considered among the best in Venice, this historic venue has been a favourite stop for Venetians for generations. Alongside its fried specialties, it also serves traditional lagoon dishes at affordable prices. Although it is not a true bacaro, it is still well worth a stop, especially if you are near the Rialto Bridge.
Cantina Vecia Carbonera
Cannaregio 2329
10.30-22.00
Among the most atmospheric and photogenic bacari in Venice, this place stands out for its old-osteria style interiors and its view over the Rio della Maddalena. It offers sandwiches, crostini with both classic and creative fillings, and a selection of traditional dishes, all to be enjoyed in its characteristic rooms overlooking the canal. A perfect spot for those looking for atmosphere as well as excellent cicchetti.
Paradiso Perduto
Cannaregio 2540
11 AM–12 AM / Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays
A historic and unconventional venue that combines restaurant, music, and social atmosphere. Born as an innovative space in the 1980s, it helped shape the Venetian jazz scene and still hosts live concerts today, with a grand piano as its centrepiece.
The atmosphere is informal and lively, with long “ship-hold style” tables where guests share their meals. In addition to the cuisine, you can enjoy cicchetti such as fried sardines, meatballs, and baccalà, accompanied by the house wine. It is a landmark of Venice’s nightlife, especially on evenings with live music.
