Acqua & Mais
Fried Shrimp and Squid
Brandade and Fried Polenta
Seafood Arancini
A small food stall located near Pasticceria Rizzardini it was just past 11h00 when I doubled back to sample the Venetian Streetfoods of Acqua & Mais, the work of a former fine-dining Chef turned casual as close as Italy gets to America’s “Food Truck” movement with prices that seem almost like stealing in comparison to the quality of the cuisine.
Translated to “Water & Corn” and serving cold Salads, Polenta, grilled or fried Meat and Vegetables in paper cones, bags or napkins intended to be eaten on the go, Acqua & Mais is best located heading east on Campiello dei Meloni from the mainland to Ponte di Rialto, the small signage almost enough to render the storefront hidden in plain view were it not for a display of items along the front window that seem to be more than enough to bring the masses, locals as well as tourists almost invariably found in a several minute queue.
Staffed by just two men, both working prep with hot items grilled or fried fresh up front as others are readied in a rear-kitchen visible through the small standing area adjacent a counter where items can be purchased by weight, it was accounting for a relatively aggressive dining agenda that just three selections made at a total of €13,50, the results setting a high standard that similar dishes sold elsewhere for more money would soon prove unable to outperform.
Best known for the Fritto Misto, a combination of Shrimp and Squid lightly kissed by Lemon and fried crisp without a hint of grease, suffice it to say that each crunchy bite offers robust flavors at the very peak of just-caught freshness, the trimmings used alongside toothsome Rice, melted Parmigiano, Fish and Peas to create the best Arancini I’ve ever laid eyes on, the texture of a slow-cooked Risotto not any different aside from its lack of ability to be eaten from a napkin on the way through Venice’s never-ending maze.
Saving the best till last, though personal biases toward creamed Salt Cod must be noted as the Potato, Cream and Fish combination is undoubtedly an acquired taste, those craving the classic dish are not only recommended but strongly encouraged to taste the version offered in a deep cone with bits of fried Cornmeal for dunking, a light bit of herbs lingering just long enough to offset all the brininess with a texture that is as smooth as silk.
http://acquaemais.com/