🥂 What Is a Bacaro? And Why You Should Visit One in Venice

Discover Venice’s Most Authentic Eating and Drinking Tradition—One Glass at a Time

When in Venice, do as the Venetians do. And if you really want to feel like a local, there’s one tradition you can’t miss: visiting a bacaro.

But what exactly is a bacaro? Is it a bar, a restaurant, a wine shop… or something in between? In this guide, we’ll walk you through the culture, flavors, and charm of these beloved Venetian hangouts—and share our favorite bacari where you can enjoy delicious cicchetti, house wine, and good company far from the tourist traps.

Let’s raise a glass (or three) and dive into one of Venice’s tastiest, most character-rich experiences.

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🇮🇹 What Is a Bacaro?

A bacaro (pronounced BAH-kah-ro) is a small, rustic bar where locals stop for a quick drink and a bite. It’s the Venetian version of a Spanish tapas bar, but with its own unique soul. Here, you’ll find:

• Ombre (small glasses of house wine)

• Cicchetti (bite-sized snacks, similar to tapas)

• Locals standing at the counter chatting with the bartender

• Laughter, clinking glasses, and a laid-back vibe

Bacari are informal, authentic, and often a bit hidden—tucked down alleyways or along quiet canals. They’re not fancy, and that’s the point. It’s all about good food, good wine, and good company.

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🕰️ A Little History: Wine and Workers

The word “ombra” (literally “shade”) comes from a charming piece of Venetian history. Wine sellers in Piazza San Marco used to move their barrels to stay in the shadow of the bell tower, keeping their drinks cool.

Thus, a small glass of wine became known as “un’ombra di vino.” To this day, you’ll hear Venetians say: “Andiamo a bere un’ombra” (Let’s go drink a shade!).

Bacari evolved to serve these ombre, along with small bites of food for the gondoliers, laborers, and merchants who needed a break from their day.

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🍢 What Are Cicchetti?

Cicchetti (pronounced chee-KEH-tee) are small, savory snacks typically served on bread, polenta, or skewers. Think Venetian-style tapas. You’ll often see them displayed behind glass at the bar.

Popular Cicchetti Include:

• Baccalà mantecato (whipped salt cod on toast)

• Sarde in saor (sweet-and-sour sardines with onions)

• Polpette (meat or veggie balls)

• Mozzarella in carrozza (fried mozzarella sandwiches)

• Marinated artichokes

• Anchovies with butter or pesto

• Grilled veggies, olives, or pickled eggs

💡 Tip: Order a few cicchetti and a glass of wine—then repeat at the next bacaro!

🔗 Try Our Cicchetti Food Tour

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🗺️ The Bacaro Crawl: Venice’s Best Bar-Hopping Tradition

Locals don’t sit down for hours at one bacaro. Instead, they go on a bacaro tour (called bacarata)—visiting several bacari in one evening, enjoying different bites and sips at each.

It’s fun, affordable, and perfect for:

• Foodies

• Couples

• Groups of friends

• Solo travelers looking to meet locals

Join one of our private Venetian Bacaro Walks, and we’ll show you where the real flavors live—far from overpriced tourist menus.

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🍷 The Best Bacari in Venice (Tried and Loved by Locals)

Here’s a curated list of bacari with charm, character, and incredible food.

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1. Cantine del Vino già Schiavi (Dorsoduro)

A classic. Located next to a canal near Campo San Trovaso, this bacaro is always buzzing. Their cicchetti are inventive, fresh, and beautifully presented.

Must-Try:

• Gorgonzola and walnut crostini

• Tuna tartare with leek

• Aperol spritz by the water

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2. Osteria Al Squero (Dorsoduro)

Right across from a gondola repair yard (squero), this spot is a favorite for students, locals, and savvy travelers.

Atmosphere:

• Casual, fun, perfect for aperitivo

• Sit along the canal wall with a glass of wine

Specialties:

• Mortadella and pistachio rolls

• Vegan-friendly cicchetti

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3. All’Arco (San Polo)

Tucked near the Rialto Market, this family-run gem is small but mighty. It’s one of the most famous bacari in Venice—and still retains its local feel.

Get there early! Closes around 2:30 PM.

Try:

• Anchovy with cream cheese and chives

• Octopus salad

• Marinated mushrooms

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4. Al Mercà (San Polo)

More of a wine stand than a bar, but oh-so-worth it. You’ll find locals sipping wine in the tiny campo right in front.

Vibe:

• Stand and chat

• Cheap, quality wine

Pair With:

• Mini panini (truffle cheese, salame, prosciutto)

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5. La Bottiglia (Cannaregio)

Stylish but welcoming, La Bottiglia has a rotating wine list and generous cicchetti boards. It’s great for vegetarians and those looking for something beyond fish.

Must-Have:

• Burrata and tomato

• Roasted peppers

• Organic prosecco

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6. Bacaro Risorto (Castello)

Tucked near the Arsenale, this local-favorite is known for strong spritzes, friendly staff, and fantastic bites.

Try:

• Spritz Select (the most Venetian spritz)

• Egg and truffle crostini

• Fried zucchini flowers

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🍽️ Vegetarian & Vegan Options

While many cicchetti are meat- or fish-based, there are plenty of plant-friendly options too:

• Grilled eggplant and peppers

• Hummus and olives

• Vegan polpette

• Chicory or artichokes on toast

• Pickled onions and marinated mushrooms

📍 Ask us about our Vegan Bacaro Walk, where we custom-curate stops that serve exclusively veggie options!

🔗 Contact Tour Leader Venice

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🕔 When to Visit a Bacaro

• Aperitivo Hour (5 PM – 8 PM): Best time for atmosphere, wine, and snacks.

• Lunch (11 AM – 2 PM): Great for a light, local-style meal.

• Late Evening: Some bacari stay open until 10 PM or later, especially in lively neighborhoods like Cannaregio.

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✨ Final Thoughts: Bacari Are the Heart of Venice

If you want to skip the frozen pizza and overpriced spaghetti and dive straight into Venetian culture, start with a bacaro.

These charming little bars offer more than just food—they offer connection, tradition, and a glimpse into how Venetians live, laugh, and snack their way through the day.

And remember: don’t be shy. Point at the cicchetti, ask for “un’ombra di rosso,” and enjoy your new favorite way to eat and drink in Venice.

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About the Author

Written by Igor Scomparin, licensed local guide and founder of Tour Leader Venice. Igor and his team specialize in creating unforgettable private tours that uncover the real Venice—from secret wine bars to artisan workshops. Since 2008, Tour Leader Venice has been the go-to for travelers who want a truly local experience.