Treviso: A Tale of the Cicchetto

Italy, known for its charming cities, rich history, and delicious cuisine, is a country that never fails to captivate visitors with its unique offerings. One such gem is Treviso, a small town in the Veneto region, located just a short distance away from the famous city of Venice. While Treviso may not be as well-known as its neighboring cities, it has its own story to tell, and it revolves around the cicchetto.

The cicchetto, a traditional Venetian appetizer, is a bite-sized delight that is particularly popular in Treviso. Derived from the word “cicca,” meaning “chip” in the local dialect, cicchetti were originally created as a way to cover wine glasses to prevent flies from entering. Over time, they evolved into small snacks that were served alongside a glass of wine in the traditional osterias of Venice and Treviso.

What sets Treviso apart is the wide variety of cicchetti available, from the traditional to the innovative. The town boasts numerous osterias and bars, where locals and visitors can indulge in these delectable treats. The cicchetti are usually displayed on the counter, tempting passersby with their vibrant colors and appetizing aromas.

One classic cicchetto that can be found in Treviso is the crostino. A crostino is a small slice of toasted bread topped with a variety of ingredients. It can be as simple as a smear of creamy cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper, or it can be more elaborate, featuring toppings like prosciutto, roasted vegetables, or seafood.

Another must-try cicchetto in Treviso is the bruschetta. Similar to the crostino, bruschetta consists of toasted bread, but it is typically rubbed with garlic and topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and olive oil. The combination of the crunchy bread, tangy tomatoes, and fragrant herbs is an explosion of flavors in every bite.

For seafood lovers, the sarde in saor is a cicchetto that shouldn’t be missed. This dish comprises marinated sardines, onion, raisins, and pine nuts, creating a unique sweet and sour flavor profile. It is a tantalizing blend of textures and tastes that transports you to the shores of the Adriatic Sea with each bite.

Of course, no cicchetti tour would be complete without sampling the local cured meats. Treviso is renowned for its high-quality meats, such as prosciutto, salami, and bresaola. Served thinly sliced, these meats can be savored on their own or paired with bread, cheese, or even fruit. The delicate flavors and melt-in-your-mouth texture of these meats are sure to please even the most discerning palate.

While cicchetti are enjoyed throughout the day, the true essence of this tradition comes alive during Treviso’s aperitivo hour. From late afternoon to early evening, locals gather at the city’s bustling bars, sipping on spritz cocktails and sampling an array of cicchetti. This social ritual is a time of relaxation and camaraderie, where friends and colleagues convene to share stories, exchange ideas, and unwind after a long day.

In conclusion, Treviso is a town that has preserved the age-old tradition of cicchetti, offering visitors a delightful culinary journey. Whether it’s the classic crostino, the aromatic bruschetta, or the mouthwatering sarde in saor, Treviso’s cicchetti showcase the rich tapestry of flavors that can be found in both traditional and contemporary Italian cuisine. So, if you ever find yourself in this beautiful corner of Italy, make sure to indulge in the tale of the cicchetto and let your taste buds revel in the gastronomic delights that Treviso has to offer.