Overlooking a minor canal in a peaceful area of Venice, Adriatico Mar, as the name itself suggests, is inspired directly by the sea that, in centuries, represented a major source of wealth for Venice and all the coastal regions, from the Balkan to the Italian shores.
Certainly Francesco had this in mind when, a few years ago and with the help of some friends, decided to open this cozy bacaro in Dorsoduro. As a matter of fact, the place itself looks like a lighthouse, where counter, benches, tables and even a small, accessible pier revolve around the host’s warm light.
Following the example of the ancient Venetians, who used to import wines from Greece, Francesco selects his products mostly from Collio, Carso, Friuli and Adriatic lowland regions. Up to 10 different Malvasia – a Mediterranean grape variety that easily grows on several soils and absorbs the terroirs’ different peculiarities - are available at Adriatico Mar. The labels belong to small vine-dressers, whose properties usually don’t exceed 10 hectares and products are not large-scale distributed.
According to the same principles, the bacaro is now enlarging its unique collection with wines from minor Italian islands such as Isola del Giglio or from Portugal, whose grape varieties are strongly influenced by the sea/ocean contiguity.
Mentioned in some excellent tourist guides, the place is attended by a few respectful explorers and by a local crowd that loves chilling on its benches in the winter and enjoys the pier during the warmer seasons. Classical music, not often played in the bars around Venice, here is the usual soundtrack and recently attracts musicians and composers from La Fenice Theatre.
A special mention goes to the cichetti, always fresh and prepared with local ingedients. Crostino with baccala’ mantecato, paired with a glass or two of Istrian Malvasia, seems to be my favorite nowadays!
Tip: if you happen to live in Venice (even temporary!) and fall in love with one of these bottles, it’s now possible to have it delivered, by boat or on foot, directly from Adriatico Mar!
Have a Glass in Venice is happy to include Adriatico Mar in its off the beaten path Bacari Tour.
Find more info at: https://www.facebook.com/MalvasiaAdriaticoMar/
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