- BY ISSIMO
- April 23, 2024
L’Aperitivo Italiano: The Insider’s Guide
Hotel Il Pellicano’s star Bar Manager on what makes the perfect Italian aperitivo
The days are getting longer, and the evenings are getting warmer, what does that mean? Even more reasons to join family and friends in savouring the aperitivo italiano, one of ISSIMO’s all-time favourite rituals.
We’ve already explored a short history of aperitivo – delving into its origins, heritage, and its social role in the Italian lifestyle as a quintessential pre-dinner ritual. So we thought we’d chat to Hotel Il Pellicano’s star Bar Manager Federico Morosi, and discover some of his insights about what he thinks makes L’Aperitivo Italiano such a special ritual that’s something to celebrate. He has served up his fair share of Spritzes and signature cocktails at Bar Roberto over the years, and if anyone knows the secret to the perfect aperitivo, it’s Federico!
And let’s not forget the launch of our brand new ISSIMO Mezzatorre and La Posta Vecchia coasters, which brings a touch of our hotels’ aperitivo magic into your home, in true ISSIMO style.
As Federico tells us, the aperitivo italiano is one of life’s great pleasures that can be enjoyed by everyone; from the local bar where locals meet in a small Italian town, to a more formal affair in a big hotel, to a swish new high-street joint with cocktails that resemble works of art in a glass.
“Aperitif in our country is regarded as a time for gathering and socialising, where we can spend time with special people after a day of work or to commence a beautiful evening in which the only concern is drinking and eating well. We can therefore call it a real moment of relaxation, a small luxury that everyone can afford, and it is part of the culture of our country,” he says.
Of course, everyone’s idea of the perfect l’aperitivo italiano is different, but based on what we hear from guests across our three hotels, ‘Pelli-style’ aperitivo definitely has its own unique charm and atmosphere that makes it a very memorable experience. We suppose a sunset terrace view overlooking the Monte Argentario coastline, the Gulf of Naples, or Palo Laziale’s shores don’t hurt either! As Federico explains, the perfect aperitivo is all about a few simple elements that combine to enhance the experience of relaxing with friends and loved ones.
“L’aperitivo italiano requires only a few basic ingredients: first of all, good company, pleasant music, and finally a good board of snacks accompanied by your favourite drink. The simple recipe is: conviviality, serenity and captivating drinks, all in the name of la dolce vita.”
After a full day spent by the pool or at the beach, or even discovering some of the sites around our hotels’ locations, we just love that time of day where we go back to our rooms, change into something fabulous, and head out to the bar or terrace for our pre-dinner aperitivo. Guests at Hotel Il Pellicano are always greeted with a smile by Federico and his team when they arrive at Bar Roberto, and you can count on him to make a perfect recommendation when it comes to your drink order.
Whether it’s an iconic classic such as Bellini, Negroni and Martini, or something else that tickles your fancy, Federico knows best, and you can bet he’ll prepare something very special for you. We must say, there are few moments of joy that quite compare to the moment one of our hotel staff serves your perfect cocktail on the perfect coaster, and always with a smile!
Whether it’s an iconic classic such as Bellini, Negroni and Martini, or something else that tickles your fancy, Federico knows best, and you can bet he’ll prepare something very special for you. We must say, there are few moments of joy that quite compare to the moment one of our hotel staff serves your perfect cocktail on the perfect coaster, and always with a smile!
“I think the Spritz is great for any occasion, fresh, thirst-quenching and world-renowned with many variations. It’s a cocktail that perfectly captures the Italian vibe, and our Patzy Spritz is always popular too,” says Federico, who is always delighting guests with delicious new takes on timeless classics.
Great company? Sì. A little background music for ambience? Sì. The perfect drink in hand and a selection of delectable canapés on the table? Sì. And don’t forget our fabulous ISSIMO X Lido swimwear for a beach apero! Cin cin for the perfect Aperitivo Italiano!