Aperitivo, or the French apéritif, is traditionally known as a pre-meal drink. Over time it has transformed into a social event where friends gather for a drink and a large spread of appetizers. A classic Italian aperitivo drink is a prosecco (bubbly wine) or a spritz (made with Aperol orange liqueur, prosecco and soda).

Aperitivo could be compared to an American “Happy Hour,” however in Italy, with the purchase of a single drink you gain access to all the food available. It’s a pre-set buffet of food, meaning no menus, but as long as you have a drink, you can keep eating! Bars will have a wide variety of appetizer-style foods, which will keep changing throughout the night.  Prices can range anywhere from as low as 6 euro to 10 euro.

Where to go?

Kitsch: 6:30-9:30 p.m.
This is a Campus Florence favorite, just on the other side of Santa Croce on Viale Antonio Gramsci, 1.  Buy a drink for 8.50 euro and have a giant spread of traditional Italian dishes that keep changing from 6:30 to 9:30 every night. Take your friends and check it out!

Soul Kitchen: 7-10:00pm
Another one of our staff favorites… Great vibe and great music. Grab your friends and head down to Via de’ Benci, 34R for a guaranteed good time.

Moyo: 7-10:30 p.m.
Located a few doors down from The Red Garter at Via dei Benci 23r, try out this place before heading out for a night out with your friends. Every Wednesday they have a special sushi aperitivo! One drink and a sushi spread for 10 euro.

Zoe: 5-7:00 p.m.
If you feel like taking a stroll across the river, You should give Zoe a try. Looking out over the river, at Via dei Renai 13r, this is a true Italian hang out. 7 euro gets you a great variety of authentic cuisine and a real Italian experience.

Rex Café:  7-9:30 p.m.
When visiting Rex, it is as though you’ve traveled back in time to 1976. This Italian hotspot will leave a lasting impression with its unique ambiance of funk and jazz playlists, along with its extravagant decor including leather furniture and mosaic tiles. This laid back environment is inviting to students and can be found at Via Fiesolana, 25.