Before dinner begins in Italy, there’s a ritual that sets the stage for the meal—one that blends conversation, light bites, and carefully chosen drinks. Known as aperitivo, this tradition is about more than just whetting your appetite. It’s a cultural cornerstone of Italian dining that brings people together in a relaxed, social setting, all while celebrating balance and flavor.
What Is Aperitivo?
Aperitivo is the Italian version of happy hour, typically enjoyed between 6 and 8 p.m. Unlike its American counterpart, aperitivo focuses less on discounted drinks and more on quality and connection. The purpose is to stimulate the appetite (from the Latin aperire, “to open”), easing into dinner with a drink and small plates.
Common aperitivo drinks include:
- Aperol Spritz
- Negroni
- Campari and soda
- Vermouth over ice
- Prosecco
Each of these beverages is designed to be low in alcohol and slightly bitter, encouraging the palate to engage before the richness of the meal begins.
Aperitivo Food: Small Bites, Big Flavor
The food served during aperitivo varies by region and establishment. In northern cities like Milan and Turin, it’s not uncommon to find a full buffet of snacks included with your drink order. Elsewhere, you might receive a small plate of olives, cured meats, cheeses, or crostini. The key is to offer something satisfying without overshadowing the meal to come.
Where to Experience Aperitivo in the U.S.
While nothing beats sipping a spritz along a Venetian canal, plenty of restaurants and bars in the U.S. now offer aperitivo-inspired menus. Here are a few places where you can embrace the spirit of the tradition:
- Eataly (locations in New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles) offers regional Italian wines and curated antipasti during their dedicated Aperitivo Hour
- Bar Camillo in Brooklyn, NY serves negronis on tap and house-made focaccia in a cozy Roman-style setting
- Bar Toscana in Los Angeles features elegant bar bites and aperitifs in a chic West Coast twist on Italian tradition
For more inspiration, visi Eataly’s aperitivo guide.
Tips to Bring Aperitivo Home
Even if you’re not near a participating restaurant, you can recreate the experience at home. Here’s how:
- Use low-ABV spirits and Italian liqueurs to craft simple cocktails
- Serve a small board with prosciutto, Parmigiano-Reggiano, marinated olives, and bruschetta
- Play classic Italian jazz or lounge music in the background
- Keep it light—aperitivo is not meant to replace dinner, only to enhance it
Why Aperitivo Still Matters
In a fast-paced world, the aperitivo reminds us to slow down and savor. It’s not just about what’s on the plate or in the glass—it’s about atmosphere, company, and making the transition from work to rest with intention.
Whether you’re embracing it in Rome or recreating it in your living room, the aperitivo is proof that dining well is as much about the experience as it is the food. Next time you pour an Aperol Spritz or set out a bowl of olives, you’re not just snacking—you’re participating in a timeless ritual.
