Picking up the art of entertaining from worldly adventures is in every Modern Jetsetter’s playbook. The British (and Americans) are well-versed in the tradition of cheese and crackers…but it’s not until you elevate your entertaining game to the European level that you truly savor the practice. And honestly, it’s no pressure. My favorite part of aperitivo is the joy of putting it together and watching guests decontruct it in awe.
Aperitivo hour makes entertaining look elegant, effortless and inspiring. Whether it’s a Game of Thrones viewing party in your apartment or a formal soiree on your porch, you’ll covet that special hour as much as your guests. We are here to assure you doing Aperitivo the Italian way is a simple affair, and an official jetsetter entertaining trick you’ll treasure for a lifetime.
What is Aperitivo?
Also known as apéritif, aperitivo is pre-dinner tradition widely beloved in Italy, Spain and France. Fundamentally, aperitivo is designed to awaken the appetite, spark conversation and improve digestion. This beloved Italian snacking tradition is integral to daily social life and a common sight to behold in piazzas, sidewalk bars or on a breezy terrace during summer.
What Does The Word Aperitivo Mean?
Aperitivo has no English translation, but it is rooted in the Italian and ultimately Latin word aprire, meaning “to open”. Traditionally, aperitivo is very much the grand opening to the evening, social time and one’s appetite.
When Does Aperitivo Take Place?
Around sunset, between 6PM – 9PM. Dinner is served afterward (Italians eat late).
What Is the History of Aperitivo?
Apertivo has roots in Northern Italy, specifically Turin, where famous distiller Antonio Carpano invented herb-and-spice based Vermouth in 1796. Vermouth went on to become the official pre-dinner drink for Italian royalty in the region and eventually gained widespread popularity and variations across Europe in the 19th century.
Personally, I find the Veneto region to be the heart of aperitivo culture. The futher south you go, the more difficult it is to find an authentic experience. Every region in Italy has its own story and claim on aperitivo…and my opinion is one of many passionate Italophile opinions.
What Snacks are Served for Aperitivo?
Small Snacks (cicchetti or antipasti), served on a charcuterie board. Typically a fine mix of local cheese, salumi, nuts, fruit, jams and salty snacks. Good news for lazy jetsetters: it’s ultimately a versatile, romantic, messy mix of your preferences.
If you take part in aperitivo hour at a local bar in Italy, you’ll likely be offered olives, nuts and potato chips. If you go to a local’s house or terrace for aperitivo, chances are you’ll find a more formal charcuterie layout (AKA your entertaining trick). For more ideas, explore my Charcuterie 101 Guide.
What Drinks are Served for Aperitivo?
Spritz, Americano or Negroni are perhaps the most hallmark aperitivo drinks, which are typically bitter.
- Spritz // This northern Italy tradition (my clear favorite) is often based on Aperol or Campari. My forever go-to is a classic Aperol Spritz, which consists of Aperol, prosecco and a splash of sparkling water. Served over ice with orange slice and olive. Try my authentic Venetian Aperol Spritz recipe to understand my hype.
- Americano // Based on Campari, sweet Vermouth and sparkling water. Garnished with orange slice.
- Negroni // Based on Gin, Campari and sweet Vermouth. Garnished with orange slice.
How Can I Find Good Aperitivo in Italy?
When in Italy, head to the local “bars” around sunset and it won’t be hard to find. Big cities like Milan, Florence, Venice and Rome will naturally come with a tourist price tag…and unfortunately, not always the authentic aperitivo experience. Stick to smaller towns and when in those big cities, take a walk off the tourist path into more local neighborhoods. Unless you’re paying a luxury price tag at a hotel rooftop (those bespoke aperitivo experiences are always worth it), typically the sidewalk bar aperitivo experience should be less than 10 Euro a person.
