Venice is a city of canals, gondolas, and bridges and a gastronome's heaven. At the heart of Venetian life is the tradition of the aperitivo—a delightful mix of cicchetti (small foods) and well-made drinks.

Venetian bars, or bacari, have perfected this tradition and offer a true way to experience the city's vibrant life. From innovative cocktails to centuries-old wines, these bars promise an evening of culinary pleasure.

This is a walking tour of the finest Venice bars for drinks and small bites, featuring hidden gems and local favorites. Each one has its own taste of Venice, so they are absolute must-visits when in this magical city.

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1. Il Mercante

Overview: Close to the world-famous Ponte dei Frari in the Dorsoduro area of Venice, Il Mercante is a sophisticated cocktail bar reimagining the city's aperitivo tradition. On two stunningly designed floors, this gem is comfortably capable of fusing old-world charisma with contemporary design.

The inside is decadent but comfortable with dark wood, low lights, and comfortable seating. Il Mercante's status as an art cocktail bar has earned it a loyal following of locals and visitors alike seeking an unconventional bar experience.

Signature Offerings: Il Mercante's cocktail menu is a travel passport to flavors around the world, with cocktails inspired by global travel. Exotic ingredients, creative presentations, and smart pairings take the experience to the next level.

Signature cicchetti, including truffle oil-topped seafood crostini and bite-sized bruschettas, pair perfectly with the cocktails. The level of detail in every cocktail, from thoughtful garnishes to handpicked spirits, makes every sip memorable.

Why Go: Il Mercante is a bar, and more, a venue for a sensory overload. Its creative cocktails and perfectly prepared small plates elevate Venice's traditional bacaro scene to the next level. 

With mixologists who attend with care, it's ideal for cocktail culture lovers or anyone looking for Venetian nightlife with a dash of new edge.

Pro Tip: Go for their specially curated cocktail pairing experience to have the depths of both cicchetti and drinks extracted. 

Friendly bartenders who are willing to discuss the inspiration behind their drinks are happy to modify them according to the taste.

Opening Hours: Everyday from 5:00 PM to 12:30 AM.

Location: Dorsoduro neighborhood.

2. Al Prosecco

Overview: In the midst of tranquil Campo San Giacomo dell'Orio, Al Prosecco is a small bar with organic and biodynamic wines. Its rustic appearance, with cobbled seating areas and vintage wine crates, invites guests to unwind in a cozy and authentic environment.

With its focus on the local taste and the environment, Al Prosecco is an oasis of refuge from the chaotic areas of Venice's tourism.

Signature Seatings: A prosecco glass is paired with beautifully prepared cicchetti, including marinated seafood, polenta with fresh herb topping, and aged artisan cheeses. Each created to bring out the best in local ingredients and regional wines, they set the tone for Venetian cuisine.

Why Go: Al Prosecco offers a surprise mix of country simplicity and refined tastes. Its location in a secluded campo makes it an oasis for travelers who wish to partake of the slower pace of Venetian life. The bar's focus on quality and authenticity makes every visit feel like a celebration of Venice's culinary traditions.

Pro Tip: Visit during aperitivo hour (6:00 PM to 8:00 PM) to see the campo at its lively yet intimate best. Pair prosecco with seasonal cicchetti for a Venetian delight.

Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM; Mondays closed.

Location: Santa Croce district. 

3. Bacaro Risorto

Overview: Amidst the bustling Castello district, Bacaro Risorto puts a contemporary twist on Venice's bacaro tradition, which never goes out of fashion. The interior of the bar, with its bold colors, snippets of contemporary artwork, and comfortable decor, is an energetic yet intimate atmosphere.

It's a must-visit for anyone who appreciates the combination of traditional Venetian flavors with a new, modern twist.

Signature Offerings: The menu at Bacaro Risorto is underscored by innovation, with creative reimaginings of traditional cicchetti.

Whipped cod crostini garnished with lemon zest, bruschetta topped with fresh herbs, and cooling spritzes crafted using local and international ingredients are a few of the offerings. There is always something new on the rotating menu that can be had at any time.

Why Go: This modern bacaro reflects the evolving Venetian culinary culture. Its lively atmosphere and commitment to honoring tradition while innovating make it a must-visit destination for drinks and appetizers. 

Stumbling through the nearby Arsenale or simply looking for an unforgettable meal, Bacaro Risorto is top in its class in every category.

Pro Tip: Don't miss their seasonal cicchetti offerings. Pair them with a signature spritz for an aperitivo that's both refreshing and filling.

Opening Hours: Open daily from 10:30 AM to 11:30 PM.

Location: Castello district. 

4. Osteria Ai Pugni

Overview: Situated alongside the famous Ponte dei Pugni, Osteria Ai Pugni is a charming combination of rustic Venetian charm and canal-side tranquility. 

The classic osteria, which has been a mainstay for decades, is a local and tourist favorite due to its laid-back atmosphere and breathtaking views. The outdoor area, which faces a quiet canal, is an excellent place to sit back with a drink after a long day of exploring.

Signature Offerings: Osteria Ai Pugni’s menu celebrates simplicity and quality, featuring a curated selection of wines, craft beers, and cicchetti. 

Highlights include house-made crostini topped with seasonal ingredients, cured meats, and aged cheeses. Each dish is crafted to complement the bar’s robust wine offerings, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

Why Go: Combining the relaxed vibe of a traditional Venetian osteria with the allure of canal-side dining, Osteria Ai Pugni offers a true Venetian experience. In the mood for a relaxing evening out with friends or a romantic pre-dinner sunset cocktail, this osteria hits the spot with charm and authenticity.

Pro Tip: Arrive early to secure an outside table, especially during golden hour. Canal view, and a house wine glass, are worth seeking out.

Opening Hours: Every day from 5:00 PM to 11:30 PM.

Location: Dorsoduro district. To find your way to Osteria AI Pugni, use veniceXplorer's Interactive Map.

5. Cantina Do Spade

Overview: Just a stone's throw away from the bustling Rialto Market, Cantina Do Spade is one of Venice's oldest and most historic bacari, tradition and history seeping from its walls. 

This venerable old bar, established in the 15th century, has been a Venetian institution for foodies for centuries. Its warm, rustic interior, replete with wooden beams and antique furnishings, feels like a step back in time and has earned itself a reputation as a locals' and tourists' favorite.

Signature Offerings: Cantina Do Spade serves up the finest of Venetian cuisine. Try their deliciously flavored fried meatballs, zucchini flowers stuffed with cheese, and the famous sarde in saor—a sweet and sour sardine appetizer that says a lot about Venice's culinary creativity. 

All of the offerings go well with a glass of chilled prosecco, full-bodied red wine, or a revitalizing spritz.

Why Go: Dining at Cantina Do Spade is not only a meal but a taste of Venetian culture and history.

The hum of happy diners, the clinking of glasses, and the aroma of freshly prepared cicchetti make for a sensory delight that extends to the heart of Venice. Since it is near the Rialto Market, it is an excellent spot to sit and unwind after browsing the packed market stalls.

Pro Tip: Pair a glass of prosecco with their house specialty sarde in saor, a traditional dish that is the flavor of the city, for a quintessential Venetian flavor. Get there early in the evening to be able to get a table at this popular restaurant.

Opening Hours: Open from 11:00 AM to 10:30 PM Monday to Saturday; Sundays closed.

Location: San Polo district.

6. Il Santo Bevitore

Overview: Tucked away in the Cannaregio neighborhood, Il Santo Bevitore is a hidden gem that combines old-time appearances with contemporary cocktail innovation.

The nondescript door to the bar dissolves into a darkened space in which there are eclectically designed interiors, replete with antique chairs, vintage paintings, and brick-faced walls. 

It's a concealed, speakeasy-like setting that is perfect for an amazing secret hideout for a night out or a last-call drink.

Signature Cocktails: Il Santo Bevitore offers innovative seasonal cocktails. Seasonal fresh ingredients are mixed with a great choice of quality spirits. The options are smoke-infused mezcal art, gin-cocktail crafts, and cleansing citrus-flavor drinks. 

Pair cocktails with their freshly made cicchetti such as crostini-topped smoked salmon, vegetable tempura, fried vegetables, and spicy tuna tartare.

Why Go: With its theatrical lighting, cluttered decor, and talented mixology, Il Santo Bevitore is a unique drinking experience that distinguishes it from Venice's more traditional bars. 

It's cocktail aficionados' and those who want to break away from the ordinary's heaven.

The professional bartenders add their own twist, creating drinks to order and relating the stories behind each.

Pro Tip: Talk with the bartenders and order off-menu specialties that highlight their skills and creativity. Visit during off-hours for the speakeasy-like experience.

Opening Hours: Open daily 6:00 PM to 2:00 AM.

Location: Cannaregio district.

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7. Bar Alla Toletta

Overview: Situated in the middle of the Dorsoduro district, Bar Alla Toletta is a favorite due to its affordable prices, welcoming atmosphere, and tasty Cicchetti. This casual treasure is a local and student favorite that they frequent for quick snacks and cold drinks in between work or sightseeing.

The bar's offbeat charm and energetic atmosphere render it a popular haunt for all those seeking a quintessential Venetian experience without burning a hole in their pocket.

Signature Offerings: Generous portions of crostini loaded with an assortment of tasty toppings from salty prosciutto and creamy mozzarella to roasted seasonal vegetables and savory spreads are on the menu.

Wash it down with a glass of house wine or the traditional Aperol Spritz. For those with a bigger appetite, their platters of cured meats and cheeses are a good accompaniment to an informal drink.

Why Go: Bar Alla Toletta's low-key ambiance and value for money earn it a top spot for a no-nonsense but tasty meal, its location in the vibrant Dorsoduro neighborhood also making it a practical stop along the way to other area sights such as the Accademia Gallery or Peggy Guggenheim Collection.

Pro Tip: Order a couple of the various crostini to sample lots of Venetian flavors without the hefty price. Stop by in the late afternoon to miss the hordes and score a good bar or patio seat.

Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, daily.

Location: Dorsoduro district.

Discover The Top Venice Bars for Cicchetti and Beverages

Visitor Information

Ideal Time to Visit: The best moment to encounter Venice's bacaro culture is while it is aperitivo time, specifically 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. During those periods, most bars offer the freshest cicchetti and a busy yet not frenetic environment.

Atmosphere and Dress Code: Venetian bars vary from seedy osterie to fancy cocktail bars. Smart casual attire is acceptable to most establishments. Visitors can stand at the counter, the local custom, or sit outside if space is available.

Payment and Tipping: Classic bacari prefer cash but accept cards in some. Rounding up or leaving small change as a tip is welcome but not obligatory.

Local Customs: Visitors can mingle with the locals and sample a variety of small dishes. Crawling from one bacaro to another in a single evening is a traditional method of savoring the gastronomic diversity.

With the exception of a few, like Il Mercante, Al Prosecco, and Bar Alla Toletta, all the bars mentioned are near convenient vaporetto stops and a short walk from major attractions. Seating is a combination of standing bars and bars with tables which are generally limited, so get there early for outside seats.

Ticket Information

Public Transport (ACTV Vaporetto): Travelers can reach bars in Dorsoduro, Cannaregio, Castello, San Polo, and Santa Croce by using Venice's efficient vaporetto (water bus) system.

Single Ticket: €9.50 (transfers allowed within 75 minutes)

1-Day Pass: €25

2-Day Pass: €35

3-Day Pass: €45

7-Day Pass: €65

Tickets are available from ACTV machines, authorized retailers, or the veniceXplorer online.

Cultural Add-Ons

For visitors who equate bar-hopping with sightseeing

Rialto Market Tours: These are usually conducted in the mornings and can be combined nicely with an evening aperitivo crawl.

Bacaro Tours (Optional Guided): These cost between €35 to €75 per person, usually with several stops with wine or spritz and cicchetti samplers.

These can be reserved via local tour operators or the Venice City Pass Website. Advance booking is advisable, particularly on weekends or during festival seasons.

Recommended Tickets

Devour Venice Early Evening Local Food & Wine Tour

3 Hour Cooking Class: Homemade Pasta and Tiramisu in Venice

The 11 tastings - Enjoy food and wine (tour to Murano included)- PRIVATE

Tips for Enjoying Small Bites and Drinks in Venice

Time Your Visit: 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM is the best time for cicchetti and beverages during aperitivo hour.

Make a Bacaro Crawl: Go on a tour of a variety of various bars in one evening to sample the variety of Venetian cocktails.

Join the Local Crowd: Standing and drinking at the counter and mixing with the locals is the way to go for maximum enjoyment.

Pay Cash: Cash payment is sometimes the favored method of payment among the traditional bacari.

Request Pairing Suggestions: Bartenders are usually willing to recommend excellent cicchetti and beverage pairings.

How to Make the Most of Venice’s Food and Drinks

Venice is a city where gastronomic tradition meets artistic presentation, with a culinary experience as unique as its canals' labyrinthine quality.

To make the most of Venice's food and beverage culture, one has to embrace its unique rhythm and flavors.

Discover Bacari and Cicchetti Culture: Venice's bacari, its traditional wine bars, are the heartbeat of its culinary culture. These welcoming bars serve cicchetti, small plates similar to tapas, perfect for sampling several local specialties.

Each dish speaks to the history of Venetian culinary culture, from sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines) to rich baccalà mantecato (whipped cod)—pair cicchetti with a spritz or a prosecco for the quintessential Venetian aperitivo.

Plan for Seasonal Specialties: Venetian cuisine is highly seasonal. Have all'erbis, risotto with wild herbs, in springtime, and gnocchi con la zucca, pumpkin gnocchi, in autumn. During Carnival time, don't forget to have fritole, a Venetian doughnut.

Get Out of Touristy Areas: Though sites such as St Mark's Square are an attraction in themselves, some of Venice's finest culinary treasures are hidden in less busy areas such as Cannaregio or Santa Croce. Wander these areas and authentic eateries that locals frequent will be discovered.

Take Your Time: Venetians take their dining seriously, frequently spending hours over courses and relishing each mouthful. Adopt this more leisurely pace to fully appreciate the subtle flavors and textures of Venetian cuisine.

Don’t hesitate to ask bartenders, chefs, or locals for recommendations. They often know the best hidden spots and can provide tips to elevate your culinary adventure.

By immersing yourself in Venice’s food and drink culture, you’ll indulge your taste buds and connect deeply with the city’s vibrant spirit.

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Conclusion

Venice's nightlife takes advantage of its rich cultural and food history. From the creative cocktails at Il Mercante to the old-world appeal of Cantina Do Spade, every bar offers its own flavor of Venetian existence.

Whether sipping on prosecco by the canal or indulging in gourmet cicchetti, these bars provide a Venice flavor to remember. Take part in the ritual of aperitivo, discover hidden gems, and get into the rhythm of this enchanting city.