One of Italy’s most beloved traditions, aperitivo is so much more than the Italian equivalent of Happy Hour. The name originates from the Latin aperire meaning “to open;” since this pre-dinner drink is meant “to open'' the stomach and whet the appetite before a meal.
While legend dates the ritual back to ancient Greece, it was not until the end of the 18th century that aperitivo became widely popular in Italy. The Northern Italian cities Turin and Milan began producing liqueurs like vermouth, Martini and Campari, eventually giving rise to popular cocktails such as Spritz, Negroni, and Americano.
But aperitivo is so much more than just a drink. It’s a transitional moment in the day, a chance to meet up with friends between work and dinner, or perhaps just a quiet moment to yourself with a glass of wine. Most importantly, aperitivo always, always, involves food. Even the humblest bar will serve something to eat with all drinks ordered between 6 and 8 in the evening: this could be as simple as a bowl of potato chips and a dish of olives, as bountiful as an overflowing buffet, or as sophisticated as a series of carefully curated small plates.
Want to prepare an Italian aperitivo at home? Start with some of our favorite savory snacks, including the new truffle-infused potato chips and nuts by Tartuflanghe. Pair with the cocktails or wine of your choice and... buon aperitivo!