If you spend time in Italy, you’ll quickly encounter the tradition of the Aperitivo. For many, the Aperitivo is a cultural ritual. It blends socialising and snacking on light food, usually before lunch or dinner, often accompanied by a Spritz or a Prosecco. Understanding how Aperitivo works will help you take part in one of Italy’s most beloved traditions.
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What Does Aperitivo Mean?
The word aperitivo comes from the Latin verb aperire, meaning “to open.” In practice, it refers to the period before lunch or dinner when Italians enjoy a drink—alcoholic or non-alcoholic—often with small bites of food. The goal is not just to satisfy hunger but to stimulate the appetite and prepare for the meal ahead.
Historically, aperitivo culture grew during the 18th and 19th centuries with the invention of drinks like vermouth in Turin. Today, the ritual is nationwide, though its form depends on the region.
Aperitivo Times: Morning and Afternoon
While most people associate aperitivo with evenings, there are two main moments in the day:
- Late morning (around 11 a.m.) — lighter, often just a coffee-based drink or a small glass of wine with a snack.
- Evening aperitivo (6–8 p.m.) — the classic slot before dinner, often including cocktails such as Spritz or Negroni, or even a beer or a glass of wine, accompanied by small savory foods.
Bars and cafés may advertise aperitivo hours, and in larger cities you’ll find apericena, where drinks are paired with an extensive buffet.
Regional Differences
Aperitivo is not identical across Italy. Each region adapts it to local products and habits:
- Milan — famous for apericena, a buffet of pasta, pizza slices, salads, and appetizers included with your drink.
- Turin — birthplace of vermouth, with many bars still specializing in aromatic fortified wines.
- Southern Italy — often simpler, focusing on wine and olives rather than cocktails.
- Le Marche — here aperitivo is a strong community moment. Locals often meet near the town square, enjoying regional wines like Verdicchio with olive all’ascolana or cured meats. It’s less about variety and more about connection with neighbors.
Drinks: Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic
Classic Italian aperitivo drinks include:
- Spritz — prosecco, soda, and Aperol or Campari.
- Negroni — gin, vermouth, and Campari.
- Vermouth — enjoyed straight or mixed.
- Prosecco or wine — common and simple.
Non-alcoholic options are equally popular:
- Crodino — a bitter herbal soda.
- Sanbittèr — another classic soft aperitivo.
- Juices or soft drinks — often offered for those avoiding alcohol.
The key is that aperitivo drinks are light and meant to awaken, not dull, the appetite.
The Social Aspect
Perhaps more important than the drink is the social role of aperitivo. It is a daily pause that allows people to connect after work, before dinner, or during weekends. Italians value this moment as a chance to meet friends, chat with colleagues, or simply unwind.
For newcomers, joining an aperitivo is an easy way to meet people and understand local rhythms. Unlike formal dinners, it is casual and open, which makes it accessible for foreigners too.
Key Takeaways
- Aperitivo is a pre-meal ritual with drinks and light snacks, rooted in Italian history.
- It happens both late morning and before dinner, with regional variations.
- Drinks range from cocktails like Spritz to non-alcoholic classics like Crodino.
- Beyond food and drinks, aperitivo is about community and connection.
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