The Ultimate Guide to Italian Bar Snacks: A Great Italian Tradition

When you hear “aperitivo,” you might immediately think of “happy hour,” but that’s just scratching the surface. Aperitivo is an experience that goes far beyond just enjoying some Italian bar snacks—though they are definitely a highlight!

Discover what you need to know about the glorious tradition of Italian bar snacks – and why the tradition is much more than a happy hour. Photo credit: Dennis Schmidt

Italian bar snacks: More than happy hour

Aperitivo might resemble a cocktail hour, but in Italy, it’s an event that typically includes far more than the standard peanuts or potato chips you might expect back home. Unlike the typical American “happy hour,” it’s not about discounted drinks or a fast track to tipsiness with coworkers. So, if you come across an aperitivo advertised as a “cocktail hour” in Italy, it’s likely tailored for tourists rather than locals!

For Italians, aperitivo is a cherished time, usually between 7 pm and 9 pm, where they unwind after work with a glass of wine or Campari and, of course, indulge in a variety of Italian bar snacks. Given that most Italians have lunch around 1 pm or 2 pm and dinner around 9 pm, aperitivo is the perfect way to revive the appetite for the evening meal.

For visitors, joining in on an aperitivo is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local culture, people-watch, relax after a day of sightseeing – no matter whether you have taken part in a tour in the historic city of Rome, or a visit Milan –  and curb your hunger before the late dinner. If you’re eager to partake in this Italian tradition, here’s what you need to know!

8pm Italian bar snacks with drinks – it must be aperitivo time!

Aperitivo: A northern Italy tradition with Italian bar snacks at its heart

Italian food customs are deeply regional, and aperitivo is no exception. The best place to enjoy aperitivo, complete with a fantastic selection of Italian bar snacks, is undoubtedly Milan. The city is buzzing with bars offering an excellent variety of both food and drinks during aperitivo hours.

As you travel further south in Italy, finding a “proper” aperitivo becomes more challenging, but the trend is growing. Cities like Rome, Florence, and even Naples are developing their own aperitivo scenes, with lively establishments perfect for evening people-watching and sampling some delicious Italian bar snacks!

Aperitivo, with Italian bar snacks, is just one of many reasons to explore Milan at night.

No discounts, but plenty of Italian bar snacks during aperitivo

Aperitivo isn’t about drink discounts. Instead, it’s about value—your drink often comes with a little something extra, like a plate of Italian bar snacks or access to a small buffet. Prices vary, but in Italy’s major cities, you can typically enjoy aperitivo, complete with snacks and a glass of wine, for around 8 to 10 euros.

The variety of Italian bar snacks you can expect

The type of Italian bar snacks served during aperitivo varies from bar to bar. While some places may offer simple olives and potato chips, most serve a selection of small bites like bruschetta, focaccia, or even meats and cheeses.

One of the best experiences is when you find an aperitivo buffet. Here, you can choose from a range of Italian bar snacks that might include light pastas, salads, and more. However, remember that…

Italian bar snacks can be anything. And, as a rule of thumb, one drink means one plate of food. If you want more food, buy another drink!

Italian bar snacks are meant to compliment, not replace, dinner

When faced with a tempting aperitivo buffet, it might be hard to resist loading up your plate, especially if you’re hungry or on a budget. But keep in mind, the Italian bar snacks during aperitivo are not meant to replace dinner.

Italians typically start with a small plate of snacks and savor them slowly over the next hour, often leaving some food behind. Piling your plate high or diving in like it’s your last meal can come off as rude and misses the point of the aperitivo.

Another option? Save room to enjoy a delicious Milanese dinner after your aperitivo!

By understanding and embracing the tradition of aperitivo and its accompanying Italian bar snacks, you’ll experience a unique and authentic slice of Italian culture that’s both satisfying and delicious.

Save room for dinner later so you can try some regional dishes, such as cotoletta alla milanese! Photo credit: Michela Simoncini