If you've ever taken a sunset stroll through an Italian piazza, you've surely noticed people gathering around outdoor tables, drinks in hand, with plates of small bites to enjoy. That's the iconic aperitivo, and more often than not, the drink they're holding is a Spritz. So, what makes this ritual such a big deal in Italy?

Aperitivo time in Italy typically runs from 6 to 8 pm, when Italians take a break to relax with friends, snacking on something like olives, cold cuts, cheese, and small pizza pieces, enjoying the chilled vibe. It’s that perfect moment when work is done, and dinner is to come: all you have to do is sip and chat. It’s less about the drink and more about the connection, a mini celebration of friendship and relaxation.

And oh, quick tip: In Italian, aperitivo is pronounced ah-peh-ree-tee-voh. So be ready to order your next one like a pro!

Aperitivo is the Italian word for aperitif, from Latin aperire (meaning “to open”), referring to the idea of "opening" the stomach before eating. Legend states that this ritual has been around for centuries, probably beginning in ancient Greece. It is said that the Greek father of medicine, Hippocrates, advised his patients with no appetite to consume aromatised, bitter wine.

The aperitivo really gained traction in Italy during the 19th century, when the rise of liqueurs like Vermouth, Martini and Campari introduced an entire new culture of drinking. The cafes and bars that served aperitivo became centers of intellectual and artistic life, attracting writers, artists and musicians. The aperitivo became a symbol of la Dolce Vita: a lifestyle all about pleasure, beauty, and taking things slow.

As for the cocktails, the Aperol Spritz is the obvious headliner. A refreshing mix of Aperol, prosecco, and soda water, this vibrant orange cocktail is low in alcohol and high in the “perfect for a summer evening” category. The Spritz was born in Venice, where Austrian soldiers used to mix Italian wine with soda water. Over time, it evolved into the spritzy cocktail we enjoy today.

Not feeling the Aperol vibe? Have a Campari Spritz: similar to the Aperol, it is more bitter in flavor and recognizable by a louder red color. Want something stronger? You can never go wrong with a Negroni, a sophisticated cocktail that combines gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth. Bold and bittersweet, it is ideal for those who like a little punch in their drink.

But if cocktails aren’t your thing, a glass of wine or a cold beer will do the trick. The magic isn’t the drink itself, it’s the whole social vibe. That is the true aperitivo spirit.

At the end of the day, no matter your drink, aperitivo is about taking it easy and soaking in the moment. Whether you’re having a Spritz, a Negroni, or just a glass of wine, it’s the celebration of Italian culture that makes it so special. So, the next time you find yourself in Italy, sit down, order a drink, say “cin-cin,” and just enjoy.