This was going to be my third walk with Walks of Italy and I was extremely excited (and grateful) because it was something I had always wanted to do – a Rialto market crawl, visiting the famous fish market and enjoying authentic local specialties (namely cicchetti). Tasting and experiencing how and where locals go; I can’t wait!Despite a drizzly sky, everyone was in good spirits this morning. Under the loggia in Campo San Giacomo across from its namesake church, we huddle around our guide for the morning, Emanuela, to learn about the history of where we are and about what we would be experiencing during our 2-1/2 hours together.

I guess I should start by describing cicchetti which is unique to Venice. It’s similar to a tapas in Spain but not as fancy. It can be a simple, delicious little panino (sandwich), a small bite of fried fish to rice balls or vegetables or a marinated delicacy (usually seafood). Displayed in cases, you pick and choose and then, usually standing or at a small counter, enjoy with a glass of Prosecco or local wine.Emanuela is animated and enthusiastic as she recounts the origin of the name Rialto (Rivo Alto) as well as its illustrious past. For centuries the Republic of Venice was the trade center of the east and west–everything passed through the Rialto. This contributed not only to its wealth but influenced everything its lifestyle and culture.

Together we will be led through the narrow streets (called calle), pass through covered passages (sotoportegos) and pause for cicchetti tastings at three (3) local bars. Oh, and did I mention that the Venetians don’t take caffé breaks, they enjoy Prosecco breaks! Ah, I’m going to enjoy this even more than I thought!!

Our first stop is at the popular La Merca. This tiny bar only has a small counter and a few stools and it is packed with locals–always a good sign! After describing our choices among the cicchetti and rice balls, Emanuela takes our order. I decide on two local specialties: bacala (codfish) and sopressa (local salume). As Marco serves us and pours our local Prosecco, I know that I could get used to this. It’s delicious! For a mere 6 euros you can enjoy a fantastic tasty feast. (I vow to return on my own and I do…several times! )

Fortified we are led through the local marketplace (Casarta) which was once a dairy but is now a vegetable and fruit market with colorful and tempting displays local specialties. Of course, nothing is grown in Venice but it’s brought across fresh from local farms and fields.

Next stop, the famous Rialto fish market. It’s a virtual beehive of activity; noisy, busy and bustling with activity (yes, it smells like fish!). The photos really say it all— the sheer variety is incredible. One aspect that I found especially notable is the prominently displayed sign which outlines strict guidelines regarding the minimum size of fish that can be caught and sold and which are enforced by “sea police”. Even the net sizes are regulated to ensure that smaller fish will survive, grow and breed. In fact, it’s actually a law enforced throughout the European Union.

Our next stop is Cantina di Spado (sword). We are seated inside at small tables and offered another selection of local delicacies. As we nibble on more local specialties including: crostini, deep fried fish and vegetables, and Mozzarella en Carrozza (mozzarella and ham in bread, then dipped in egg and deep fried) accompanied by Merlot wine from the northern side of the Province of Venice, Emanuela shares more about the unique and fascinating history of Venetian lifestyle and famous carnevale.

Then ready to move on, we are lead through more narrow calle, all the while Emanuela entertaining us with local lore and history. Eventually we find our way to our final tasting destination, All’Arco. As with Ma Merca and Cantina di  Spado, it is bursting with locals. Our selection includes crostini with creamy bacala and gorgonzola with anchovy, paired with a local vino bianco.

Click on any photo for a virtual tour!

The drizzle and rain has not abated but with enough porticos and a small umbrella for shelter, I savor every bite and moment. Emanuela leads us to a main shopping area to say goodbye but not before pointing out Caffé del Doge. Here she says, we can find some of the best coffee in Venice. Saying goodbye to her and the group, I don’t have to think twice about testing that recommendation.

And, indeed, it was! Who can resist a Cappuccino Veneziano con Scaglie di Cioccolato Fondente?  (That is a Venetian cappuccino with dark chocolate shavings!). Not me!

Grazie to Emanuela and to Take Walks for this unique and quite wonderful immersion into the authentic lifestyle of Venice.The next time you’re in Italy, enjoy a fabulous Take Walks experience!

Venice Food Tour: Rialto Market & Cicchetti Tasting with Wine: Join us on a gastronomic tour of Venice, discovering the history of the city through its food. Visit historic markets, bakeries, cafes and restaurants, tasting incredible dishes from the best local spots (unknown to most visitors); because Venice has great food, you just need to know where to look and how to order!