In Italy, la dolce vita isn’t just a saying—it’s a way of life. It reflects a relaxed approach to life, a ‘sweetness of living’ that encourages leisure and unhurried enjoyment. L’aperitivo embodies this philosophy and is present in every moment of local life: from a slow caffè lungo sipped at the bar (coffee to go is almost unheard of here) to leisurely, drawn-out meals.
Italy’s take on happy hour
At its simplest, the aperitivo is a drink served with a few appetisers, but it’s much more than just an ‘Italian happy hour’. Unlike a quick after-work drink, the aperitivo—usually enjoyed from seven to nine, rather than five to seven—has deep social significance. For decades, it’s been a cherished tradition that embodies the relaxed Italian way of life.
Across the country, from Piedmont to Calabria to Sardinia, Italians gather over a drink and a spread of hors d’oeuvres to socialise, network and enjoy each other’s company. And true to la dolce vita, antipasti are often served free and in abundance, often as a buffet.
For this reason, tourists often see aperitivo as a cheap way to dine. Indeed, for the price of a glass of spritz or prosecco, you can enjoy prosciutto, crostini and panzanella salad (made with tomatoes, cucumbers and croutons).
But if you want to mingle with the locals, don’t rush to the buffet! The aperitivo is meant to whet the appetite (from aprire, ‘to open’). So nibble slowly, take in the views and enjoy the people-watching by the Tiber, in one of Florence’s gardens or in a piazza in Milan.
A brief history of the aperitivo
In 1786, distiller Antonio Benedetto Carpano created a blend of white wine and herbs and spices that quickly became a hit. The Piedmontese distiller, based in Turin, had invented vermouth, the spirit that would later become the key to martinis. Carpano’s shop was soon packed with customers eager to try this unique bitter drink, and the tradition of the aperitivo was born and has grown over the centuries.
What to drink?
The spritz – a popular mix of Prosecco, soda water and Campari or Aperol – is a classic choice for aperitivo hour. You could also try a Negroni, a cocktail created in Florence in 1919 with gin, red vermouth and Campari.
Finally, if cocktails aren’t your thing, a glass of neat Prosecco is always a perfect option.
