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The Art of the Aperitivo: Where and How Romans Unwind

There’s something magical about early evening in Rome. The golden light, the hum of conversation, the clink of glasses — it’s aperitivo time.

For Romans, this isn’t just a drink before dinner. Aperitivo is a ritual, a social rhythm, and a way to pause and savour the moment. And if you’ve ever sat on a rooftop overlooking terracotta tiles with a Negroni in hand — you’ll know why we try to bring that feeling home to Lyme Regis.

What is Aperitivo, Exactly?

It’s not quite happy hour, not quite dinner. Aperitivo (from “aprire” – to open) is designed to open the appetite and the evening. It usually takes place between 6pm and 8pm (Italians dine much later than us Brits!) and includes:

A light, bitter drink — think Aperol Spritz, Negroni, Americano, or Campari & Soda
Small snacks: olives, crisps, toasted nuts, crostini or cheese
A moment of pause, often standing at a bar or seated with friends

Our Rooftop Favourite: Hotel Cesàri

We found this spot on a research trip and now it’s tradition. Nestled between the Pantheon and Trevi Fountain, the rooftop bar at Hotel Cesàri is one of the most relaxed, panoramic places in central Rome for aperitivo.

From here you get:

A golden view across tiled rooftops and bell towers
Attentive service, but never hurried
A perfectly balanced Negroni or classic Hugo Spritz

It’s romantic, peaceful, and a world away from the tourist hustle just below.

Another beautiful (if pricey) spot is the Terazza Borromini near Piazza Navona. Stunning views and super comfy sofas make this a perfect sundown spot.

Trastevere’s Aperitivo Scene

In Trastevere, things get more rustic, but no less delicious. We often start at:

Bar del Cinque

Tucked just off Piazza della Scala, this candlelit wine bar is a local institution. Their natural wine selection is excellent, and their bar snacks — from spiced almonds to crostini with lardo — are perfect with a glass of orange wine.

Wander a few streets over and you’ll find plenty more: tiny cocktail dens, enotecas spilling onto the street, and casual terraces where people sit on walls, balancing glasses on knees.

Aperitivo Culture at Poco Pizza

While we might not have a Roman rooftop, we’ve created our own coastal aperitivo moment here in Lyme Regis:

Crisp, dry wines and low-ABV spritzes (look out for our Spritz of the Day)
Small plates made for sharing — from olives to flatbread and dip platters
A relaxed, sunset-friendly vibe overlooking the sea

Whether you join us for lunch or dinner, we want every guest to get a taste of that Roman rhythm.

Aperitivo Pro Tips