Small eateries in Venice are great places to savor some very special regional delights, and get an authentic sense of the city’s people and their favorite haunts.

Cichetti are small portions of food (much like tapas) that are served in bars and restaurants all over the city. These small, delicious Mediterranean-style appetizers can be as simple as warm olives in herb oil or a square of locally-made cheese to bruschetta, hummus or stuffed peppers or mushrooms. They’re usually accompanied by an ombra – a small glass of wine – and eaten standing up at the bar or a tall table. Usually the cichetti is displayed at the bar, where you order your drink and make your cichetti choices.

Venetians usually eat cichetti before lunch or dinner – or in place of lunch or dinner – and they most often share it with friends.

Don’t leave Venice without trying these tiny treats – and spending a little time in one of the intimate eateries where they’re served. It’s a simple pleasure you won’t soon forget.