The Keyes to Aperitivo

Dear SOON(ER) to be traveler,

Adjusting to the slow-paced, Italian way of life is no easy feat, especially when coming from a country that places value on productivity and strict efficiency. In the U.S., food is fuel that allows us to keep up with our busy schedules. Snacks are a common and essential part of our diets and meals generally occur before the sun sets and last (at most) two hours.

As you will quickly realize, this is not the case in Italy. For Italians food is a big part of their culture and identity. It is a way to build community. Most Italians eat dinner (which can last as long as three hours) between 8 and 10 p.m. and do not snack between meals. For Americans not accustomed to walking 15 thousand steps a day with nothing to tide them over between meals, this can be a hard pill to swallow. Luckily, there is one exception—aperitivo!

Aperitivo is a pre-meal drink and snack, usually occurring between 6 and 8 p.m., that is meant to "open" the stomach before dining. This cultural ritual originated in Turin in 1786 following Antonio Benedetto's creation of the Vermouth drink. Once Benedetto began selling the beverage in his shop, people from all walks of life would gather for a glass after work to socialize. Since then, aperitivo has become a prominent part of Italian culture. It is a time during the day that is dedicated to unwinding and catching up with friends and family.

Traditionally, aperitivo consists of a low-alcohol beverage, such as an Aperol spritz or a peach bellini, and a few snacks to munch on (a nice surprise for unexpecting tourists!). At casual restaurants these snacks typically include potato chips, tarallini (a light and crispy biscuit), nuts, chex-mix, and occasionally olives and beans. While simple, this entourage of finger-food always hits the spot, especially after a long day of classes and sightseeing.

For a more impressive spread, you can go to a fancier restaurant and have aperitivo paired with cured meats, light cheeses with jam, and bread with balsamic and olive oil. If you're lucky, you may also receive the restaurant's specialty appetizer of the day.

During my time in Italy, aperitivo quickly became one of my favorite parts of the day. It is both a way to immerse yourself in Italian culture and a way to get to know those you are traveling with. Aperitivo is also a great opportunity to try new restaurants and drinks. I've listed some of my favorite places for aperitivo below!

Dirty Rat: easily the best Aperol spritz I've had so far, and they also have a killer peach bellini. Snacks usually include potato chips and chex-mix. If you order food as well you can expect a delicious appetizer!

Spazio Morini: Also a great place for a peach bellini! You can sit outside and people watch or enjoy the ambiance and photo-ops of the in-door seating.

Parco della Fortezza Medicea: A great place for drinks and snacks with an absolutely gorgeous view of the city! I recommend going in the evening to see the sunset, but make sure to bring bug spray.

BOOMER,

Maddy