“L’appetito vien mangiando,” is one of our favourite Italian sayings at Eataly. Why? It roughly translates to, “Eating awakens the appetite.” We could not agree more, which is why we love aperitivo.
An aperitivo is a pre-meal drink; the experience of aperitivo is a cultural ritual. Derived from the Latin
aperire, the tradition is meant “to open” the stomach before dining. Accordingly, for centuries Italians have said cheers –
cin cin – over drinks and appetizers in the early evening hours between work and dinner.
Think: happy hour 2.0.
Traditionally, an aperitivo is a carbonated, bitter, and low-alcohol beverage, such as the
Aperol spritz, which is made with Prosecco, Aperol, and a spritz of sparkling mineral water. More flexible today, orders range from wine to beer to a variety of mixed drinks. At Eataly, we are especially partial to the Negroni, a classic cocktail made with equal parts Campari, sweet vermouth, and gin.
Typical aperitivo fare includes crackers, olives, meats, cheeses, and bread. If you have ever enjoyed a salumi-and-formaggi board with a glass of wine at La Piazza at Eataly, you have had an aperitivo – even if you did not realize it! Join us for your next one; head to Eataly Toronto and raise a glass.
Salute!
