What to eat in Chioggia

Chioggia, a picturesque coastal town located in the Veneto region of Italy, is not just a treat for the eyes but also for your taste buds. With its rich culinary traditions and a bounty of fresh seafood, Chioggia offers an array of delicious dishes that are sure to satisfy any food lover. Here is a guide to some must-try foods when visiting Chioggia.

1. Sarde in Saor: This traditional dish is a true taste of Venetian cuisine. Sarde in Saor consists of sardines marinated in a sweet and tangy sauce made from onions, vinegar, raisins, and pine nuts. Often served as an appetizer, this combination of flavors perfectly balances the richness of the fish.

2. Mołéche: If you’re a seafood lover, you can’t miss the opportunity to try mołéche. These tiny soft-shell crabs are a specialty of Chioggia, and they are typically deep-fried until crispy. Served with a side of tartar sauce or enjoyed on their own, mołéche are a delightful delicacy that exemplifies the freshness of the Adriatic sea.

3. Bigoli: Pasta lovers rejoice! Chioggia is famous for its homemade pasta known as bigoli. This thick, spaghetti-like pasta is typically made with whole wheat flour and water. Served with a variety of sauces, such as ragù or anchovy sauce, bigoli is a simple yet delicious dish that showcases the rich culinary heritage of the region.

4. Risi e Bisi: As the Venetian dialect name suggests, this dish is a combination of rice and peas. Risi e bisi is a creamy and comforting risotto-like dish that perfectly balances the flavors of fresh peas and rich broth. A popular dish during spring, this hearty dish is a must-try in Chioggia.

5. Frittura di Paranza: A seafood lover’s dream, frittura di paranza is a mixed fry of small fish and seafood. Typically, local varieties like anchovies, baby squid, and shrimp are lightly battered and fried until golden brown. Served with a squeeze of lemon and a side of tartar sauce, this dish is a true delight.

6. Anguilla in scaveccio: Another seafood specialty, anguilla in scaveccio is marinated eel. The eel is first cooked and then marinated in a tangy vinegar and herb-based sauce. Biting into the tender yet slightly firm flesh of the eel is a unique experience that shouldn’t be missed when in Chioggia.

7. Granseola: Seafood lovers will also appreciate granseola, an Italian term for spider crab. These crabs are often boiled and served chilled with a simple dressing of olive oil and lemon juice. The delicate and slightly sweet flavor of the crab meat makes this dish a true delicacy.

8. Cichèto: To experience the local gastronomy in Chioggia, don’t forget to indulge in cichèti, the Venetian version of tapas. These bite-sized snacks can be found in various forms, such as crostini (toasted bread with toppings), polenta squares topped with savory ingredients, or local seafood delicacies. Stroll through Chioggia’s narrow streets and visit the local bacari (small bars), join the locals, and enjoy a plate of cichèti with a glass of local wine.

Chioggia is a feast for all the senses, but its culinary offerings truly stand out. From the seafood delights that make the most of its coastal location to the traditional pasta dishes and Venetian-inspired tapas, your taste buds will be in for a treat when you visit this charming Italian town. So, don’t hesitate to explore the local eateries and indulge in the flavors that make Chioggia a standout gastronomic destination.