Osteria al Cicheto — Restaurant in Venice

Review for Osteria al Cicheto – Venice’s Hidden Gem

If you’re looking for an unforgettable culinary experience in Venice, Osteria al Cicheto is an absolute must. Tucked away in a quiet calle just minutes from the train station, this tiny, atmospheric spot captures everything that’s magical about Venetian dining — authenticity, warmth, and flavors that stay with you long after the meal ends.

Let’s start with the beer selection — it’s next-level. Thoughtfully curated, it features both Italian craft brews and standout international picks. Whether you’re a hophead or a fan of something smooth and malty, there’s something on the list that will surprise and delight your palate.

But the real stars here are the cicheti — those small Venetian snacks that pack a punch. Every bite is a revelation. From perfectly seasoned meatballs to delicate baccalà mantecato on crispy crostini, each dish is executed with precision and soul. The flavors are bold, balanced, and utterly addictive.

The atmosphere? Cozy, intimate, and full of character. The staff is knowledgeable, passionate, and genuinely happy to guide you through the menu. You’ll feel like a local within minutes.

In short: Osteria al Cicheto isn’t just a meal — it’s a memory. Come for the beer, stay for the snacks, and leave already planning...

Probably the toughest reservation in Venice, just 4 tables and a few high tops for a €45 three-course prix fixe at Dinner, Osteria al Cicheto is a small Bacaro tucked away on Calle de la Misericordia just a few hundred meters from the train station.

Known for a lengthy list of local Wines, many natural, guests at lunch will find Cichetti plus fried Snacks at the bar while those with reservations after dark can order the same in addition to a dozen or more Venetian classics.

Friendly and tourist-friendly, though locals commonly fill the space from open to close, selections prove tough despite a well-culled list, and whether one chooses Appetizers fried or not the flavors are bold and well paired to White Wine with a bit of acidity.

Local and Seasonal, though dishes such as Spaghetti with Clams and thicker Tubes beneath Duck Ragu are available most days, Frito Misto entails whatever is caught fresh in bountiful portions while Squid in their Ink shine adjacent grilled Polenta.

Making all Desserts on site, an extra €6 for those with room, expect Tirsmisu and Cookies anytime but if asked for a recommendation all servers will suggest delicate Pear Pie that eats more like a Cake resting in two...

This really is a hidden gem — literally the alley that leads to it is easy to miss!

I stopped in to have dinner, and lucky was able to get a seat at the bar as they informed me that all the tables were reserved. However, not sure if that is because I was just one person or not. But reservations would be my recommendation — it is a tiny little place. Maybe six tables total and four bar stools.

Now the wine — great choices. Locally sourced and most organic/green designated. The servers were very knowledgeable about the wine and pairing with food.

I had the three course dinner. The bigoli in traditional Venice style was the best thing I ate tonight. It has an onion and sardine sauce — which was fantastic!! The beef tartare and pork cheek were excellent choices too, but that bigoli was next level!

The pear “pie” (more like a cake) was excellent too, especially with the fortified wine the server selected for me.

Absolutely would go back tomorrow if I could!! So worth it. Get...