Best local wine bar in Venice

A love affair with Venice

Venice, is one of those places I’ve been to, that I dream of going back to, over and over again. If dreams came true then, I would probably rent a nice airy flat by the canal for a few months and spend my days walking along the canals, buying fresh seafood from the fabulous bustling Rialto market, and enjoying cooking in a tiny Venetian kitchen, weekend evenings would be spent bar crawling or as they are referred to in Venice – Bacaros. And of course, I would savour authentic Italian coffee every single day, freshly brewed, maybe sit by the canal, read a book while sipping on some fruity red wine… ah – the perfect life…

Experience Venice like a local

Though I haven’t yet managed to fulfill this dream, I did manage to spend a few magical days in Venice exploring the food, wine and culture.

A quaint Venetian Bacaro

Bacacros or traditional Venetian wine bars are a must-visit when in Venice. This is where the locals go to drink wine, enjoy the atmosphere, and savour some delicious snacks. Rather than spending too much money at the many tourist traps, it’s best to do your research first and plan your visit to at least one of these quaint old bars.

Cantine del Vino già Schiavi

Located in the Dorsoduro district, this atmospheric bacaro is bursting with character. The crumbling structure adds to the rustic appeal and its proximity to one of the city’s last surviving gondola workshops is a bonus. Situated right in front of a canal, this bacaro is a firm favourite with the locals. It is also a wine shop and is always buzzing with activity. Seating is not available as is the tradition in most of the traditional bacaro’s.

Cicchetti

Cicchetti is to Venice what Tapas are to Spain. These delectable small plates of Venetian finger food are a perfect accompaniment to a glass of Vino. Cantine del Vino già Schiavi serves a great selection, prepared fresh every day at the venue.

The glass counter at the front of Cantine del Vino già Schiavi has shelves heaving with plate after plate full of different cicchetti. The most popular ones seemed to be the ones topped with cheese – ofcourse! Like the pumpkin puree, ricotta and parmesan, the gorgonzola cheese topped with pear and balsamic vinegar, also the gorgonzola cheese and walnut cicchetti was quite delicious.

There were several combinations of cod, tuna and anchovies with olives and cheese and other mouth-watering combinations too.

While it is customary to sample a few wines while enjoying a plate of Cicchetti, it is also highly recommended to round off the session with a taste of Grappa. This potent local alcoholic beverage is quite a heady drink and those not used to it can end up experiencing quite a system shock – like I did 😉 Thankfully, I shared my grappa with DH who absolutely loved it.

Eat and Drink like a local

There is no better way to truly immerse oneself in the local culture than to experience a new city as a local would. Sampling the local food and wine is just one of the ways to get a real taste of the authentic vibe of the place.

Planning a trip to Venice? Why not browse through my review of Hotel Al Ponte Moncenigo here?

I simply can’t seem to get enough of Venice! So if you are planning a trip to Venice then stay tuned for more posts – about Cafe Florian, a day trip to Murano and Burano, and loads more inspiration!

Heading to Venice? Have a look at my review post about our stay at Hotel Al Ponte Mocenigo. It is centrally located and within walking distance of Rialto Market, this hotel also has beautifully luxurious rooms and they do a fabulous breakfast. Located very close to the local water taxi stop, we actually walked here after the airport bus dropped us at the main hub in Venice!

* I planned this entire trip on my own and have paid in full everywhere I have stayed and eaten. As always all opinions expressed are as always my own.