This blog post was originally posted on April 2, 2019 and was updated on September 29, 2020.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like so many things in Rome, happy hour is a bit slower\u2014and a touch more stylish\u2014than what you might find in other countries. <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Another important distinction is it\u2019s all about the food\u2014but not in the way you might think! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The word aperitivo<\/em> itself comes from the Latin verb aperire,<\/em> which means to open your appetite. While there are snacks to enjoy, aperitivo<\/em> in Rome is not meant to replace your dinner, but instead, to enhance it.<\/p>\n\n\n

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Aperitivo in Rome: The Basics<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The aperitivo <\/em>tradition began in Milan and made its way south to Rome, where it has been welcomed with open arms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The usual hours  to enjoy an aperitivo<\/em> in Rome are 7 to 9 p.m. While you can order anything you like, you\u2019re likely to see Italians drinking sunset-hued Aperol or Campari spritzes. Both of these drinks are a refreshing mix of bitter liqueur, Prosecco<\/a>, and sparkling water. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Another popular choice is a Negroni, a drink that packs a real punch with equal parts Campari, gin and vermouth. For a non-alcoholic choice with a similar bitter taste and appetite-inducing quality, order a Crodino<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Your drinks will always come with some kind of salty snack. This could be as simple as a few olives and a bowl or peanuts, a plate of pizza bianca<\/a>, <\/em>or even a buffet of more substantial offerings like rice and pasta salads. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Insider\u2019s Tip:<\/strong> If you\u2019re looking for a light dinner on the early side, look for the word apericena<\/a><\/em>. This is a modern aperitif-dinner hybrid that offers drinks and a hearty buffet. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Best Spots for Aperitivo in Rome<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

1. La Bottega del Caff\u00e8<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The Piazza Madonna dei Monti is the heart of the Monti neighborhood<\/a>. And La Bottega del Caff\u00e8 (Piazza della Madonna dei Monti, 5<\/em>) is at its center. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

With beer on tap, a range of wines, Prosecco by the glass, and spritzes on the menu, there\u2019s plenty to choose from. A trio of peanuts, olives and potato chips, as well as a small plate of sandwiches and mini pizzas accompany your drink. You can also upgrade and add a pinzimonio<\/em>, a plate of fresh crunchy vegetables to dip in olive oil. <\/p>\n\n\n\n