In Italy, the hours between 6 and 9 p.m. are reserved for a cherished cultural ritual: aperitivo hour. Though the tradition typically begins around 6 p.m., the saying "It’s 6 o’clock somewhere!" playfully captures the spirit of this leisurely custom, that is, there’s never a wrong time to enjoy good company, conversation, and a well-crafted drink.
Aperitivo hour is less about the place and more about the atmosphere, but the setting certainly enhances the experience. You’ll find Italians gathering at neighbourhood bars, cozy cafés, and bustling local watering holes, each with its own character. Whether tucked into a piazza in Rome, overlooking canals in Venice, or nestled along the seaside in Sicily, these venues come alive as the sun dips low, inviting friends, coworkers, and strangers alike to unwind and connect.
At the heart of the aperitivo experience is what’s served: drinks paired with small, flavourful bites designed to stimulate the appetite before dinner. Traditional beverages include a crisp white wine, a bittersweet Aperol or Campari spritz, or a bold, herbal Negroni. More adventurous sippers may opt for an Americano or Vermouth on the rocks. Alongside these are nibbles that range from salty crostini, marinated olives, and toasted nuts to mini sandwiches, cheeses, and bite-sized savory pastries. In some northern cities like Milan and Turin, the aperitivo can evolve into a full buffet, a concept known as apericena (a fusion of aperitivo and cena, or dinner).
But who takes part in aperitivo hour? Everyone. From young professionals finishing their workday to older locals meeting old friends, from students on a study break to travellers soaking up Italian culture, aperitivo is a time of community and pause. Many people stop in during their commute home to decompress, while others plan whole evenings around it. The open, inviting nature of aperitivo hour means there’s no dress code, no reservation required.
More than just a pre-dinner drink, aperitivo is a celebration of Italian lifestyle that underscores an artful blend of socializing, flavour, and tradition. Whether you’re sitting under the warm glow of a city sunset or clinking glasses in a hidden backstreet bar, aperitivo hour is a daily reminder to slow down and enjoy life’s simple pleasures.
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