The Aperitivo

Aperitivo is one of the great Italian traditions beloved around the world — and Milan is its undisputed capital. From trends to customs and curiosities, our guide takes readers inside the city’s most iconic bars and venues to explore the magic of the modern-day aperitivo.

Aperitivo: the all-Italian ritual that’s conquered the world

A symbol of Italian conviviality and tradition, the aperitivo has become a global ritual. Milan — the city of fashion and design — has taken center stage as its capital, a point of reference for food and drink culture, where history, trends, and little-known stories blend beautifully over a glass, turning aperitivo into an iconic daily moment.

But saying “aperitivo” is just the beginning. This ever-evolving Italian ritual boasts over 200 years of history, beginning in post-theatre Turin with the invention of vermouth in 1786 — a wine-based, herb-infused blend created by pastry chef Benedetto Carpano. It quickly became the drink of choice at court, eventually making its way to Milan, where it won over the city’s stylish crowds. Soon after, in 1815, Ausano Ramazzotti created his famous amaro made with 33 secret herbs, and in 1860, Gaspare Campari perfected his iconic red bitter.

Just like vermouths and bitters, wine has always played a starring role in the aperitivo ritual. Think Prosecco DOC — the very essence of Italian aperitivo. Fresh, fruity, and sparkling, it’s a messenger of lightness and sociability.

Rooted deeply in tradition yet constantly evolving, aperitivo is a ritual in motion. Milan’s vibrant food and drink scene has long been a melting pot of styles and ideas, earning the nickname “Milano da bere” (Milan to drink) back in the ‘80s — a nod to the city’s dynamic and ever-changing energy.

Today’s audiences are eager to discover new wine pairings and cutting-edge mixology, yet they still crave the timeless classics that tell a story. The Milanese aperitivo is nothing short of a lifestyle — a cherished moment to pause, breathe, and reconnect amid the rush of daily life. It’s about savoring company, discovering new flavors, and letting the glass become a storyteller. In Milan, where every sip can become iconic, the aperitivo continues to charm, inspire, and define the city’s most exclusive trends. Whether it’s three in the afternoon or four in the morning, here are the must-know spots for a glass of wine and a chat—ranging from historic bars to trendier venues (perfect for Design Week):

Bar Basso: Iconic for the Negroni Sbagliato, created here in 1972, it’s a go-to for fans of the Milanese aperitivo. The vintage atmosphere, complete with its neon sign, makes it the perfect place for a drink with friends.

Càrico: With an urban vibe and New York-style flair, Carico Milano is a creative lab offering top-quality ingredients and a unique tasting experience, centered around a 19th-century carpenter’s table.

Bar Quadronno: Since 1964, it’s been a Milanese institution for sandwiches and aperitifs. Open from 7 AM to 2 AM, it’s a great spot for a coffee or cocktail, located between the city center and Porta Romana.

Cantine Isola: A historic wine shop in the Paolo Sarpi area, loved for its vast wine selection and cozy atmosphere. Every Tuesday, a poem is read aloud to guests, creating a one-of-a-kind setting.

Camparino in Galleria: Located inside Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, this historic venue brings back Milanese elegance, with classic architecture and iconic cocktails like the Campari-Seltz.

Mandarin Garden: Elegant and sophisticated, it’s the ideal spot for an exclusive aperitivo. Refined design and oriental influences enrich the cocktail experience.

Rita & Cocktails: Since 2002 in the Navigli district, Rita has been a must for cocktail lovers, offering outstanding quality drinks and an eclectic food menu. Don’t miss the famous GinZen, the bar’s signature cocktail.

Cavallante: A wine lover’s haven, Cavallante offers a curated selection of wines paired with charcuterie boards. A warm and welcoming place where the host always knows the perfect bottle to recommend.

N’Ombra de Vin: A wine bar with a fascinating history, set in a former 16th-century refectory. Enjoy fine wines and traditional dishes while soaking up the atmosphere of old Milan.

Bar Paradiso: A wine bar blending the retro charm of the ‘60s with a refined food and wine experience. It has quickly become a local favorite in Porta Romana.

The Milanese aperitivo is, without a doubt, a true lifestyle philosophy: a vital moment to pause from the frenzy of daily life, a chance to enjoy good company and discover new flavors. The glass becomes a vessel for stories and anecdotes, continuing to charm and seduce, making Milan the place where the most exclusive trends meet—and where every sip becomes iconic.