What Is Aperitivo in Florence and What Makes It So Special?

Aperitivo is an Italian tradition that has gained massive popularity all around the world over the past few decades, but it originated right in the heart of Italy, giving Florence the chance to offer their take on the unique concept. If you’re visiting Florence, making sure to partake in Aperitivo during your stay should be high on the agenda.

What Is Aperitivo?

In its most traditional form, Aperitivo is a short, Italian ritual that takes place just before an Italian meal. Generally a light snack is served, along with drinks such as sparkling wines, Prosecco or a bitter Vermouth-based drink called Aperol Spritz. The Aperitivo can be enjoyed in the form of a buffet, where the guests have various light foods and drinks to pick-and-choose from. It is seen as the social “interlude” of a meal, allowing guests to simply sit and chat in a relaxed atmosphere, nibbling through typical Italian bar snacks such as olives, nuts and bruschetta. Afterward, guests sit down and enjoy the main course.

Origins of Aperitvo

The tradition of Aperitivo has its origins in the late 1700s. Imbibers quickly realised that drinking on an empty stomach could cause them to be too intoxicated, too quickly. Thus, the Italians were amongst the first cultures to realise that drinking should always be preceded by a bite to eat. This was initially a very simple bar snack such as prosciutto and melon, however it slowly developed into the wider variety of foods we associate with Aperitivo today. In addition to this, there was also a shift in attitude which accompanied the ritual – instead of just a chance to soothe a rumbling stomach before dinner, Aperitivo slowly began to incorporate itself into the wider culture, becoming an opportunity to socialise, develop relationships, and simply enjoy quality time with good company. It still remains one of the most integral traditions in Italy today.

Florence’s take on Apetitvo

It thus comes as no surprise that Florence has not only taken this ancient tradition, but taken it and improved it for the modern era. As with all things Italian, simplicity is key to maintaining a sense of tradition and quality; thus, bars and restaurants in Florence will rarely offer up an extravagant buffet or array of drinks during an Aperitivo session. However, this doesn’t mean that they don’t put as much effort into providing an enjoyable time for their customers – indeed, quite the opposite is true.

Take La Onzina, for example – one of Florence’s favourite watering-holes. La Onzina is famed for producing traditional Florentine dishes alongside regional spirits and wines. Their Aperitivos are no exception – based around their signature cocktail choices and light grazing food items, La Onzina provides the perfect atmosphere in which to enjoy the traditional meet-up-over-drinks-and-snacks experience. For a longer luxurious experience why not try “Discover Aperitivo Time with Drinks and Food” (which you can book here), which takes you through some of Florence’s top food spots for one of their Apertivo experiences?

The Culture of Aperitvo in Florence

Aperitivo remains one of the bedrocks of Florentine culture to date – it provides a moment of respite in between the busyness of day to day life, while still contextualising itself as an important part of any dining experience. It has become so popular that Aperitivo spots are now more typically known “happy hour” cafes or bars; with discounts on food and drink during certain hours of the day and night.

It is also important to note that Aperitivo is present in all types of Italian culture; from small family bars to high-end, fine-dining restaurants. The twist differs from place to place – from alcoholic cocktails to smooth mocktails – but what always remains is the laidback setting and lounge atmosphere. Both for tourists and locals alike, it is ideal opportunity for you to gain an insight into popular Italian life and habits.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Aperitivo is a traditional ritual that has become an integral part of both Florentine and Italian culture alike. Whether you are looking for an interactive experience with friends or just a simple pre-meal “bite”, it is highly recommended that you utilize some of Florences’ greatest local haunts to get your fix. The city offers up a great variety of Aperitivo experiences and with tours such as “Discover Aperito Time with Drinks and Food” (which you can book here) for those wishing for something more guided and unique; you can rest assured that whatever kind of experience you are looking for – Florence will have it!