The aperitivo is practically an institution in Italy. An early evening drink, the aperitivo is supposed to stimulate the appetite before dinner, as compared to the digestivo, a drink supposed to help with digestion after dinner. While this sounds as if Italians use any old excuse to enjoy a nice drink — and why not? — the aperitivo is much more a social and lifestyle choice rather than simply a medicinal one.

Walk around Rome in the early evening, all the terraces and bars are filled with people meeting friends, catching up after work before heading home, or couples enjoying the afternoon’s golden light before sunset.