Cicchetti ((should be pronounced “chi-ket-ti”)) is a traditional Venetian cuisine which can be found mostly around Venice but in few other Italian cities.
It is the Italian equivalent to Spanish Tapas: Finger food which is often served with an alcoholic drink in a small wine bar (Italian: bácaro) or some form of other casual setting.
Small sandwiches, tiny fried dishes and skewers are commonly eaten standing up with a glass of wine or Aperol spritz at hand.
Crostini, Arancini, Croquette, Polpette etc. are the cornerstone of such experience.
Many of these places in Italy would be tiny, packed and the food will be frequently changing and FRESH.
London is (definitely) not short of Italian restaurants but while Tapas bars are very common, Cicchetti style are not as common.
When friends suggested meeting at “Cicchetti”, I expected some of the original feel. I was wrong.
The restaurant called Cicchetti in Piccadilly is clearly aiming higher – similar sharing food concept but at super premium quality, service and price point.
Fantastic decor and while visiting in a very busy evening, it was still (reasonably) comfortable seating and convenient chat space.
Some google reviews suggested the service could get chaotic but we found it almost perfect.
Seating was quick, dishes came flying out (1 missed order which was corrected within 2 minutes), friendly service with plenty of time for questions and recommendations.
I could not fault the dishes on taste and central London prices £50 per head ($62) including beer/wine and coffee is considered mid-price.
EVERYTHING was beautifully served and tasty.
Still, it’s quite easy to get a great Italian food experience at a much lower point and that’s the main reason I would not be rushing back.
For a similar but more authentic experience at a better price point when in the area, I would prefer Polpo in Soho.
