By Enrico Perri, a World Aperitivo Ambassador and Bar Manager, at Bar 45, 45 Park Lane, London.
The Italian tradition of aperitivo is often misunderstood as simply a pre-dinner drink. It is a ritual that celebrates slowing down, social connection and the transition from the working day into the evening. Originating in Northern Italy, aperitivo is about creating a moment to pause, enjoy good company and stimulate the appetite before a meal. ‘Happy Hour’ it is not!
It was the challenging time during the pandemic that taught us new habits and new ways of living. The trend of ‘at home’ aperitivo became established during this time and has continued to grow, now becoming a modern social ritual we would all benefit from adopting.
Aperitivo Hour is surprisingly easy to recreate at home and so much easier than hosting a full dinner. The key is not extravagance – aperitivo isn’t about a need to impress guests with an elaborate offering – but instead it’s about a relaxing atmosphere and thoughtful preparation of the right kinds of drinks and food.
Whether entertaining friends or simply unwinding after work with family, here are my top tips for bringing authentic aperitivo culture from my country into your own home.
1. Focus on Timing
Aperitivo is as much about timing as it is about what you serve. Traditionally enjoyed between 6pm and 8pm, it marks a clear distinction between the end of the day and the beginning of the evening. It’s the moment in time when the shoulders relax, work is forgotten and the unwinding begins.
Avoid treating it as a late-night drinks session. Instead, set aside a dedicated hour where phones are put away, conversations take centre stage and guests can relax before dinner. Creating this sense of occasion and a chance for connection, is one of the most important aspects of aperitivo.
2. Keep Drinks Light and Refreshing
An aperitivo drink should be based on bitter flavours rather than sweetness. Excessive sugar should be avoided in pre-meal drinks: the goal is to stimulate the appetite, not to fill guests up before the meal.
Think of choosing lighter serves with balanced bitterness, citrus notes and moderate alcohol levels. Classic options include a Negroni, Spritz, Americano or a simple vermouth and soda.
As someone who has dedicated much of his career to aperitivo cocktails – and particularly the Negroni – I love the elegance of Italian drinking traditions for home entertaining. I recommend a lighter option to the classic Negroni called the Negroni Sbagliato. The recipe is simple: combine equal parts of Campari and red vermouth over ice then top with Brut Prosecco. The choice of Prosecco is important: a dry Brut style with a low sugar content will keep the cocktail balanced and refreshing. Avoid sweeter styles or off-dry sparkling wines as they can overpower the bitterness that makes this drink such a great aperitivo.
For those who prefer non-alcoholic alternatives there’s plenty of options: sparkling water with citrus for example or botanical sodas.
And don’t complicate drinks with excessive garnishes – a lemon twist, an olive or a sprig of rosemary – simplicity is key. Quality ingredients and thoughtful presentation are more important than elaborate decoration.
3. Offer a Selection of Small Bites
One of the reasons the Negroni Sbagliato works so well at home is its versatility with food. Food plays an essential supporting role during aperitivo hour – but you don’t need elaborate canapés or complicated recipes. Think small, savoury snacks to graze on, not a large serving that’s like a meal.
Some classic options include:
- Marinated olives
- Salted nuts, crisps or artisan crackers
- A ‘grazing board’ with a selection of cheeses and cured meats
- Grilled vegetables
- Crostini with simple toppings
Even a small pasta dish or rice-based preparation can work beautifully if you want to offer something a little more substantial. But your aim is to complement the drinks while leaving guests looking forward to the main meal.
4. Create the Right Atmosphere
The beauty of aperitivo lies in its relaxed and welcoming environment. Lighting, music and table presentation all contribute to the experience.
Soft lighting, candles and a carefully curated playlist can instantly transform a living room, garden or balcony. There is no need for formal dining arrangements; comfortable seating and an inviting setting encourage guests to linger and enjoy the moment.
5. Prioritise Quality Over Quantity
One of the defining characteristics of Italian hospitality is restraint. Rather than offering an extensive menu of drinks and food, focus on doing a few things exceptionally well.
Invest in good-quality ingredients, fresh produce and proper glassware. Guests are more likely to remember a perfectly prepared drink and a thoughtfully arranged snack board than an overwhelming selection of options.
6. Embrace Seasonality
One of the easiest ways to elevate your home aperitivo is by adapting it to the season.
In warmer months, focus on fresh citrus fruits, chilled drinks and lighter snacks. During autumn and winter, consider incorporating roasted nuts, richer cheeses and warming flavours such as herbs and spices.
Seasonal ingredients not only taste better but also help create a stronger connection between food, drink and the time of year.
The Real Beauty of Aperitivo Hour at Home
The real beauty though of an at home Aperitivo hour is not the drink, the food or the music playlist. It’s about bringing people together, encouraging conversation and enjoying a moment of connection before an evening meal.
For me that was one of the most valuable lessons we carried forward from the Covid years: taking time to slow down, gather with the people who matter most and enjoy simple pleasures together.
About the Expert
Enrico Perri joined 45 Park Lane as bar manager in January 2023 after returning from Italy, bringing with him a wealth of knowledge, innovation, and inspiration to ensure Bar 45 remains a must-visit cocktail destination in London.
Enrico’s bar career in London began in 2016 as a barback in a busy bar in Chelsea, before moving to a senior bartending role in the renowned Cecconi’s at The Ned from 2017 to 2018. After this experience, Enrico decided to study hospitality and management in London. During this period, Enrico developed his leadership approach while beginning to create a cocktail menu and shape his own bar concept. He had his first management position with Open House London as Assistant Bar Manager from late 2018 until 2021. After the pandemic, Enrico decided to move to Lake Como, where he oversaw the bar programme of a luxury beach club on the Lake, today, the Marriott Como Edition.
In 2023, he was appointed bar manager at Bar 45, where he had the opportunity to bring his signature style to one of London’s most iconic hotels. During his time here, Enrico led important collaborations with some of the world’s best bars, The Academy Awards, and famous spirits brands like LOUIS XIII and Macallan. He reinvented the Negroni trolley service at the bar, pairing Negronis with personalised bespoke scents, and he launched two menus.
With an unwavering commitment to excellence and a passion for innovation, Enrico continues to drive the development of the beverage programme at 45 Park Lane. His dedication to crafting exceptional beverage experiences has solidified his reputation as a trailblazer in the industry.
