Local Food Tour: Cicheti & Wine

Venice’s culinary scene offers more than just pasta and pizza. For those eager to dive into the city’s true flavors and local atmosphere, the “Cicheti & Wine” tour by ShoMe Venice Tours promises an intimate taste of Venice’s hidden taverns and authentic cuisine. This experience is perfect for travelers who want to go beyond the usual tourist spots and enjoy a deeper, more personal connection with the city’s culinary traditions.

What stands out about this tour are three things: the chance to sample traditional Venetian “Cicheti” (tapas-style bites), enjoy local “Ombre” (small glasses of wine), and explore lesser-known historical spots that travelers rarely see. Plus, the guided experience ensures you’ll learn stories and secrets from a true Venetian. One potential consideration is the 2-hour duration, which might feel brief for those craving a more extensive food journey. This tour appeals to curious food lovers, culture seekers, and those wanting an authentic Venetian experience in a relaxed setting.

Good To Know

• Authentic Local Flavors: Tastes of Venetian “Cicheti” and local wines, not touristy options.
• Hidden Venitian Spots: Visits to lesser-known taverns and historical places.
• Guided by a Local: Knowledgeable guides bring the city’s stories to life.
• Intimate Experience: Private group setting for a more personalized touch.
• Time-Efficient: A 2-hour journey perfectly suited for a quick, tasty exploration.
• Flexible & Refundable: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance with full refund, making it low-risk.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What is the “Cicheti & Wine” Tour All About?

This private 2-hour experience offers more than just a sip and a snack. It’s an opportunity to step into Venice’s culinary heartbeat by exploring three carefully selected taverns (or “cicheterie”). These spots are the real deal—places frequented by locals, far from the bustling tourist traps. You’ll get to sample two cicheti at each tavern along with a small glass of local wine (“Ombre”) for each, totaling six bites and three wines per person.

The tour isn’t just about tasting; it’s about understanding the stories behind each dish, the history of the taverns, and how Venice’s culinary traditions have evolved. The guide, whose name is not specified but is described as knowledgeable and engaging, will walk you through the city’s most mysterious and historic neighborhoods, revealing secrets only locals know.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

Meeting Point and Start: Your journey begins at the fountain in a small square near the Rialto Bridge—arguably Venice’s most iconic landmark. It’s a convenient, central spot, perfect for those arriving from various parts of the city.

First Stop: You’ll enter your first tavern, a place likely rich in stories and charm. Here, you’ll be served two cicheti, perhaps something traditional like marinated seafood, crostini, or local cheeses. Alongside, a small glass of local wine will complement the flavors.

Second Stop: The guide will lead you to a second cicheterie, which might be slightly different in ambiance or specialties but equally authentic. Expect to learn about how Venetian cuisine reflects the city’s maritime history and local ingredients.

Third Stop: The final tavern is where you’ll sample your last two cicheti and sip on your final glass of Ombre. By this point, you’ll have a good sense of Venice’s informal dining culture and its unique approach to social eating.

Throughout the tour, you’ll walk through Venice’s most mysterious, historical, and often overlooked neighborhoods. The guide’s storytelling adds a layer of context, turning food into a window on local life.

The Venues: Hidden Taverns with Stories to Tell

While the tour doesn’t specify exact names for the taverns, reviews suggest that these are places favored by Venetians and rarely visited by travelers. They’re characterized by their cozy, age-old ambiance—think wooden counters, vintage decor, and walls lined with photographs and memorabilia.

Guests have mentioned that the taverns are authentic and full of local charm. One reviewer appreciated that the guide “took us to places no tourist would find on their own,” emphasizing the exclusivity of the experience.

The Food and Drink: Tasting Venetian Tradition

Cicheti are the heart of this experience. These snacks are typically served on small plates or skewers, and each offers a glimpse into Venice’s maritime and local culinary influences. Common options might include marinated seafood, prosciutto, or regional cheeses, all reflecting Venice’s proximity to the sea.

The “Ombre” is a small glass of local wine, usually a light, easy-drinking red or white that pairs perfectly with the snacks. Having three glasses over the course of the tour allows you to sample different varieties, enhancing your understanding of Venetian wine culture.

Guests have expressed appreciation for the quality of the tastings, with one noting that the “cicheti were delicious, and the wine selections complemented perfectly.” This setup provides both variety and depth, making the experience satisfying without feeling overwhelming.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Guide and Atmosphere

The tour is led by a live English-speaking guide, with options available in Spanish, Russian, French, and Italian. Reviewers have highlighted the guide’s enthusiasm, knowledge, and friendliness, which significantly enhances the experience.

Walking through Venice’s less touristy neighborhoods provides a sense of discovery and authenticity. Guests often mention that the guide shared stories and old legends, making the tour not just about food but about connecting with the soul of Venice.

Practical Details and Value

At a cost of $362.51 per group up to two people, this tour offers an intimate experience that combines culinary discovery with culture. Given that you’re visiting three different taverns, each offering two cicheti and a glass of wine, the value is evident for those seeking a quality, guided tasting. It’s an efficient way to enjoy authentic Venetian cuisine in a short time.

The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility, as it involves walking through historic streets and visits to small taverns. Also, it operates rain or shine, so be prepared for the weather—Venice’s unpredictable skies won’t spoil the experience.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This experience is ideal for foodies, culture lovers, and travelers who want an authentic taste of Venice without the crowds. If you’re interested in discovering local customs, stories, and hidden spots, this tour offers a relaxed, intimate way to connect. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a good glass of wine and small bites that tell a story.

While two hours might seem brief, the carefully curated stops ensure you leave with a deeper understanding of Venetian cuisine and atmosphere. It’s a wonderful way to spend an evening or afternoon when you want more than just sightseeing—something that feeds both your stomach and your curiosity.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
The tour primarily features seafood and meat-based cicheti, so vegetarians might find limited options. It’s best to check directly with the provider for specific dietary accommodations.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Are the tastings enough for a full meal?
The tour includes six cicheti and three glasses of wine, which is usually enough for a light snack or an early dinner, but not a full meal for most.

Does the tour include transportation around Venice?
No, the tour takes place on foot with visits to three taverns. You are responsible for getting to the meeting point near Rialto Bridge.

What language is the tour guide available in?
The live guides speak English, with options in Spanish, Russian, French, and Italian.

Is it family-friendly?
While suitable for most adults, it’s not recommended for children due to the walking required and the nature of the tastings.

In the end, this private “Cicheti & Wine” tour offers a delightful slice of Venetian life—perfect for those wanting to savor local flavors, hear stories from a knowledgeable guide, and explore hidden corners of Venice in a relaxed, intimate setting. It’s a worthwhile addition for anyone eager to see the city through the eyes of a local and experience its culinary soul.

You can check if your dates are available here: