Aperitivo Time In Italy

[Rosie]

Did you know that Italians have this "thing", this ... tradition, this custom.. I don't know how to call it Anyway.. it's having drinks and snacks in the evening.

I don't know if this is a typical Italian thing, or if this is something many other nations do it. For me, it's something I haven't encountered before coming to Italy.

Basically, it's when a few friends or family get together in a bar to have a drink (usually some sort of cocktail or wine) and eat some snacks (pizzette, potato chips but also real food).

My favorite drink for the aperitivo is the Spritz It's basically a mix of Aperol, wine, orange juice, mineral water and ice. And the last time I had one was a few days ago, went with some work colleagues to have drinks and we were brought the drinks and the aperitivo food: brown rice, white rice, pasta with pesto, white pasta, slices of cucumbers and other raw veggies, pizzette, prosciutto, wurstel and that's all I can remember, each of these foods were in small plastic glasses.

For those of you who are Italians or already living here... this is not new
But if any of you guys plan to visit Italy, be sure not to miss out on the aperitivo experience It's quite nice!

 

[Gabe]

It' not really an Italian thing as far as I know, many people have a pre-dinner drinks and snacks, not only after work or as a social get together.
In the UK people meet all the time in the pub or bar for drinks and snacks as it is less expensive and more casual than dinner and people can stay for a short time and leave. In the USA, many people meet for drinks before dinner too, especially with more casual places open.

It depends where you are in Italy, as those with a long siesta or riposo, many bars won't open until 5.30 in rural areas as restaurants start to open at 7, according to the location. In the cities places some places will open all day, but I found even in Firenze places would close.

 

[Chillout]

I have an apertivo at least once a week, normally at the weekend.

The most two common drinks for an apertivo seem to be Spritz or Campari (with or without wine) but I am sure there are more?

The food can vary, some bars just serve some crisps and peanuts. Others provide a help yourself buffet where they have many different snacks on offer. (olives, small pieces of pizza, ham, cheese etc.)

To be honest, I have not experienced this outside of Italy but I am not sure if it’s an Italian tradition or originates from another country.

It’s a great way to socialise and opens your stomach for the main meal just a few hours later.