Italian aperitivo is more than a concept; it is a mandatory part of the Italian lifestyle. Starting in the early or late afternoon, the main idea behind aperitivo is to enjoy a drink accompanied by salty snacks. A sort of an interlude to dinner, this lengthy affair is meant to whet up your appetite before dinner—even the word aperitivo stems from aprire, meaning to open up.
The widely accepted belief is that Antonio Benedetto Carpano, the inventor of the famed vermouth, was the first to introduce the concept of aperitivo in his Torino-based bar. The idea quickly caught up, and although traditional aperitivo used to include merely things like crackers or olives, it has transformed into a more elaborate affair and may incorporate anything from cold cuts, cheese, crostini, and bruschetta.
Typical drinks served during aperitivo include classics such as subtly bitter Campari, Aperol, or Cynar, as well as vermouth, various cocktails such as Americano or Negroni, sparkling, red, and white wine, or beer. This concept has spread throughout the country, and it is offered by traditional establishments, as well as modern bars.