There’s plenty we can all learn from Italian culture – not least the civilised ritual of l’aperitivo. A distinctively Mediterranean custom that takes place before an evening meal, aperitivo essentially means “sitting down for a stiff drink and some choice nibbles with good company before a nice late supper.”
Derived from the Latin verb aperire, meaning “to open”, strictly speaking, the purpose of aperitivo is to stimulate the appetite. That’s why Italian aperitifs are far more bitter in taste compared to the sweeter pre-dinner drinks enjoyed around the rest of the continent. The bitter flavours are said to engage the liver, which enhances digestion – good news if you’re hoping to swerve those shattering holiday hangovers.
But in truth, the ritual has more to do with making time at the end of the day to refresh, reboot, and catch up with pals. So much more than any flimsy, cheap happy hour, l’aperitivo offers an opportunity to take stock, reaffirm important personal connections, and shed the worries of the day over great food and cheerfully tipsy banter. Here are the best places around Genoa where you can settle in for an aperitivo like a true Italian.
