Exploring the Venetian Aperitif: Spritz and Cicchetti
Venice, a city celebrated for its enchanting waterways and rich history, also boasts a vibrant culinary tradition, particularly when it comes to the aperitif.
The most iconic among them is the ‘Spritz,’ a beloved Venetian cocktail that perfectly encapsulates the city’s festive spirit during happy hour.
The Origins of Spritz
The spritz began its journey in the 19th century under Austrian rule. Austrian soldiers would lighten their wines with sparkling water, a practice they called “Spritzen,” meaning “to spray” or “splash” in German. This practice evolved into the Spritz, a cocktail now typically made with prosecco, a splash of Aperol or Bitter to give it a distinctive orange or red hue, and a bit of sparkling mineral water.
Unlike most cocktails that are favored post-dinner, the Venetians prefer enjoying a Spritz in the late afternoon, especially after a day’s work, reflecting the city’s laid-back yet sociable lifestyle.
More Than Just Spritz
While Spritz is synonymous with Venetian aperitifs, the local repertoire includes other must-tries:
Ombra: A term that literally translates to “shadow,” referring to a small glass of wine, typically costing between 1 to 2 euros in local bars. This name dates back to vendors in the Piazza San Marco who would move their wines to keep them cool in the shadow of the Campanile.
Bellini: Initially crafted from white peach juice and prosecco, the Bellini has seen variations like the Rossini, with strawberries, and the Mimosa, with orange juice.
Tintoretto: Named after the famous Venetian painter, this lesser-known variant combines prosecco with pomegranate juice, offering a delightful twist on the traditional aperitif.
Cicchetti: The Perfect Pair
No Venetian aperitif is complete without cicchetti, the traditional snacks that accompany these beverages. These small, flavorful bites are often seafood-based and served in Venice’s bacari (bars). Choices abound from “sarde in saor” (sardines with onions) to “moscardini” (baby octopuses), and the quintessential “baccalà mantecato” (creamed cod) spread over a slice of fresh bread.
For those eager to dive deeper into this aspect of Venetian culture or looking for the best spots to experience authentic Venetian aperitifs and cicchetti, consider exploring more detailed guides or asking locals for their top recommendations to truly eat and drink like a Venetian.
Whether you’re winding down your day or kicking off an evening in Venice, indulging in a traditional spritz and cicchetti at a local bacaro is an essential experience that beautifully showcases the city’s culinary heritage and zest for life.
