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• Italian Drinks

18 Famous Italian Drinks and Cocktails To Sip and Enjoy

• Feb 17, 2024

Ever wondered what makes Italian beverages so alluring and diverse?

Famous Italian drinks, such as cocktails and other beverages, range from sparkling aperitivos to bitter-sweet Amaro, satisfying every palate.

In this post, I’ll tell you about:

• Aperitivo drinks and their pre-dinner ritual
• Italian sparkling wine-based cocktails
• Italy’s love affair with bitters and Amaro liqueurs
• Classic cocktails with an Italian twist
• Popular non-alcoholic alternatives

I made a table to help you quickly sort through the article. Click on the cocktail name to jump to the relevant section.

Key Takeaways

• Italian cocktails offer a diverse range of flavors, from bittersweet like Negroni or Spritz Veneziano to fruity and creamy such as Bellini, Rossini or Bombardino.
• Traditional centuries-old Italian aperitivo drinks include Aperol Spritz, Negroni and Campari Soda.
• I also recommended to try non-alcoholic beverages like San Pellegrino’s Aranciata and Limonata or Chinotto for its unique bitter flavor. 

Aperitivo: Italy’s Pre-Dinner Drink Ritual

Aperitivo drinks, enjoyed before a meal to whet the appetite, hold a significant place in Italian culture. These traditional Italian drinks are the perfect way to unwind after a long day and delight in small bite-sized snacks with friends and family.

The following drinks are ideally suited to stimulating your appetite before a meal:

Aperol Spritz: The Sunset-Colored Sensation

Aperol Spritz, a famous Italian drink, is a gorgeous golden orange drink that radiates a beautiful hue, evoking the warmth of a summer sunset. This refreshing and slightly bitter cocktail is made with Aperol, Prosecco, and soda water, garnished with an inviting orange slice.

The Aperol Spritz has a rich history:

• It was created in the early 1900s when two brothers inherited their father’s liquor company.
• Its popularity soared throughout the 20th century.
• The official Aperol Spritz recipe was perfected in the 50s.

This delightful drink, being among the most popular Italian drinks, has become a staple in Italian drinking culture, perfect for sipping during aperitivo hour or enjoying popular Italian wines.

Negroni: A Bold Triad of Flavors

The classic Negroni, a bold and flavorful Italian cocktail, was created by Count Camillo in 1919 at Caffè Casoni.

This popular Italian drink brings together equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, served on ice with an elegant orange peel. The Negroni’s unique flavor profile stems from the combination of these three ingredients, creating a harmonious balance between bitter and sweet.

As an iconic aperitivo drink, the Negroni sets the stage for a delightful Italian meal, awakening the senses and preparing the palate for what’s to come.

Boulevardier

Introducing the Boulevardier, a whiskey-based variation of the classic Negroni. This enticing cocktail is made with bourbon, Campari, and sweet vermouth, stirred and served over ice.

The Boulevardier was first created in Paris in the early 1920s by American journalist Erskine Gwynne, who published a magazine called Boulevardier.

The bold flavors of this captivating cocktail make it the perfect pre-dinner drink for those seeking a unique twist on the traditional Negroni.

Campari Soda: Simplicity at Its Finest

Campari Soda embodies simplicity at its finest, a light and bitter aperitif that highlights the distinct flavor of Campari liqueur. Invented in 1860 by Gaspare Campari, this Italian drink combines Campari with sparkling soda water, offering a refreshing alternative to heavier cocktails.

The strong bittersweet flavor, with notes of cherry, orange, clove and cinnamon, captivates the taste buds and makes it the perfect pre-dinner drink to stimulate the appetite.

Served with an optional orange slice, Campari Soda is a testament to the beauty of simplicity in Italian drinking culture.

Spritz Veneziano

Spritz Veneziano, a popular Italian wine-based cocktail, has its roots in the 19th century. Believed to have been created in the Veneto region of Italy, this delightful drink gained popularity in the 1950s with the introduction of Aperol, a key ingredient.

The Spritz Veneziano is made with a blend of Prosecco, Aperol or Campari, and soda water, served in a stemmed jumbo wine glass and garnished with a twist of orange.

With a nod to Venice’s rich history, the Spritz Veneziano offers a refreshing and effervescent experience, perfect for aperitivo hour.

Sparkling Wine-Based Cocktails

Italian sparkling wine cocktails present a delightful variety of bubbly and refreshing drinks, ideal for celebrations or a relaxed afternoon.

I will examine some popular sparkling white wine-based cocktails like Bellini, Rossini, and Limoncello Spritz, which highlight the adaptability of Italian Prosecco and enchant the taste buds with their sparkling fruity flavors.

Bellini: Venice’s Fruity Cocktail Creation

The Bellini, a fruity Prosecco-based cocktail, was created in the renowned Harry’s Bar in Venice by Giuseppe Cipriani in 1948. Named after the Venetian Renaissance painter Giovanni Bellini, this delightful concoction combines peach purée and Prosecco to create a sweet and refreshing beverage.

Perfect for brunch or a romantic evening, the Bellini transports you to the picturesque canals of Venice with every delightful sip.

Rossini: A Strawberry Twist on Tradition

The Rossini is a refreshing spin-off of the classic Bellini, incorporating puréed strawberries instead of peaches. This delectable cocktail blends Prosecco with the vibrant red berry, creating a luscious and fruity drink perfect for brunch, dessert, or simply sipping under the warm Italian sun.

The Rossini’s bright colors and enticing flavors capture the essence of Italy’s love for fresh and vibrant ingredients, reflecting the best of Italian cuisine.

Limoncello Spritz – Prosecco-Based

Limoncello Spritz, a Prosecco-based cocktail, brings a zesty twist to the traditional spritz. Made with Limoncello, Prosecco, and soda water, this invigorating drink offers a unique lemon flavor that’s both sweet and tangy.

The Limoncello Spritz is perfect for those seeking a refreshing and citrusy alternative to the classic spritz, making it an ideal choice for enjoying Italy’s sun-drenched afternoons.

Italy’s Love Affair with Bitters: Amaro and Its Variants

From the sunny beaches of Sicily to the busy streets of Milan, Italy’s fondness for bitters is profound.

Amaro liqueurs, known for their complex and intriguing flavors, have been an integral part of Italian digestivo culture for a long time. Let’s examine these captivating elixirs, including:

Tiramisu Martini

Sicilian sunset.

Amaretto, a sweet almond-flavored liqueur, has a rich history dating back to the 16th century. According to local legends, it was created by an artist named Bernardino Luini, who was a student of Leonardo da Vinci. This delightful liqueur can be enjoyed in various ways:

• In countless cocktails
• Added to coffee or hot chocolate
• As an ingredient in the scrumptious Italian dessert tiramisu

With its versatile and enticing flavor, Amaretto is a beloved addition to the world of Italian liqueurs .

Inspired by the classic Italian dessert , the Tiramisu Martini is a luscious and indulgent cocktail that blends Amaretto, coffee liqueur, and cream to create a decadent treat for the senses. With its rich and velvety texture, the Tiramisu Martini is perfect for sipping after a sumptuous meal or enjoying as a dessert in its own right.

This delightful concoction showcases the versatility of Amaro liqueurs and the creativity of Italian mixology.

Originating from the Bay of Naples and the picturesque Amalfi Coast, Limoncello is a lemon-flavored liqueur cherished for its zesty and tangy taste.

Traditionally served chilled as an after-dinner drink, Limoncello captures the essence of Italy’s vibrant citrus fruits and provides a delightful end to any meal.

With its rich history and refreshing flavor, Limoncello is a true testament to Italy’s love affair with bitters.

The Sicilian Sunset is a refreshing and unique cocktail that features the bitter-sweet flavors of Averna Amaro.

Made with Averna, orange juice, and soda water, this enticing beverage offers a delightful balance of sweet and bitter notes, making it the perfect drink for a warm summer evening or a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

The Sicilian Sunset captures the essence of Italy’s love for Amaro liqueurs, showcasing their distinctive flavors and the art of Italian mixology.

Classic Cocktails with an Italian Twist

Italy’s passion for mixology has led to an array of classic Italian cocktails with a unique twist. From the Negroni Sbagliato’s pleasant mistake to the Americano’s rich and dark flavors, these innovative concoctions showcase the creativity and expertise of Italian bartenders.

Let’s explore these delightful variations, including the Agricola Punch, a grappa-based drink with a refreshing and invigorating taste.

Related : Learn what some of the best Italian grappa brands are.

Americano: Italy’s Gift to the Cocktail World

The Americano, a classic Italian cocktail with a rich history, combines Campari, sweet vermouth, and soda water to create a unique and balanced flavor profile. Served on ice with an orange twist, the Americano’s bold and distinctive taste makes it a popular choice for aperitivo, as it stimulates the appetite and prepares the palate for a delicious Italian meal.

As Italy’s gift to the cocktail world, the Americano has earned its place among the classics.

Negroni Sbagliato: The Pleasant Mistake

The Negroni Sbagliato, or “Mistaken Negroni,” was born out of a happy accident at Bar Basso in Milan in the 1970s. The bartender mistakenly used Prosecco instead of gin in a traditional Negroni, creating a less bitter and sweeter variation of the classic cocktail.

With its unique combination of ingredients, the Negroni Sbagliato offers a delightful alternative for those seeking a new twist on an old favorite.

Agricola Punch – Refreshing Grappa-Based Drink

The Agricola Punch is a refreshing grappa-based cocktail that offers a unique and invigorating taste. Made with lemon juice, simple syrup, and soda water, this delightful drink is garnished with fresh mint and lemon slices, providing a burst of flavor and a touch of elegance.

The Agricola Punch showcases the versatility of grappa and the creativity of Italian mixology, making it a perfect choice for those looking to explore the world of classic cocktails with an Italian twist.

The Non-Alcoholic Alternatives

For those who prefer their beverages without a kick, or can’t legally drink alcohol yet , Italy offers a range of delightful non-alcoholic options.

From the crisp and refreshing taste of San Pellegrino sparkling water to the citrusy delights of Aranciata and Limonata, these fizzy sodas provide a taste of Italy without the alcohol.

Let’s explore these popular Italian drinks, perfect for kids and adults alike.

San Pellegrino: Italy’s Prized Sparkling Water

San Pellegrino, Italy’s prized sparkling water, is sourced from Mont Pellegrino near Palermo, offering a crisp and refreshing taste that has captured the hearts of Italians and visitors alike. This famous non-alcoholic beverage is often served with meals or enjoyed on its own as a thirst-quenching alternative to alcoholic drinks.

With its natural carbonation and distinct mineral taste, San Pellegrino has become synonymous with the finest Italian dining experiences.

Chinotto: A Bitter-sweet Soft Drink

Chinotto, a unique Italian soft drink, is made from chinotto fruit juice and offers a distinctive balance of sweet and bitter flavors.

This intriguing beverage has a complex taste profile, making it a refreshing break from traditional sodas and a perfect non-alcoholic alternative for those seeking a taste of Italy’s love affair with bitters.

Chinotto’s bold and memorable flavor is a testament to Italy’s passion for innovative and captivating beverages.

Aranciata & Limonata: Citrusy Soda Delights

Aranciata and Limonata, two popular non-alcoholic citrus sodas, are the perfect refreshments for a hot summer day or a family gathering.

Aranciata, a fizzy orange soda, is made with fresh orange juice and carbonated water, while Limonata combines sparkling water and lemon juice for a sweet and tangy treat.

Both sodas are part of the Sanpellegrino Tastefully Light sparkling fruit range, offering a taste of Italy’s vibrant citrus fruits in a fizzy and delightful beverage.

Concluding Famous Italian Drinks

If you need to find your way through the famous Italian drinks, this article offers a crucial starting point.

Italy’s rich and diverse drinking culture offers something for everyone. With a wide array of sparkling aperitivos, bitter-sweet Amaro liqueurs, and refreshing non-alcoholic alternatives, Italian cocktails and drinks are a true reflection of the country’s passion for fine flavors and creative mixology.

I hope you enjoy this journey through the world of Italian beverages and are inspired to indulge in these delightful drinks.

Before You Leave, Read This:

• Rigatoni with Basil and Pecorino Cheese, Balsamic Vinegar-Glazed
• 33 Classic Italian Sauces, Plus Two Of My Own
• Why Do Italians Live So Long and Healthier Lives?
• What is Italian Prosciutto – Prosciutto Explained
• Is Too Much Olive Oil Bad for You? – The Facts and Risks Explained

Related Articles:

Exploring The Wines of Liguria: Cinque Terre and Beyond

19 Italian Water Brands, Practically Categorized – Know What You Drink.

18 Italian Coffee Machine Brands for Authentic Espresso Lovers

Italian Grape Varieties (With Pictures)

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17 Famous Italian Cocktails

It’s hard for me to decide which I love more: Italian food or Italian cocktails . One is hearty, full of herbs and spices, and incredibly delicious. 

The other is light, refreshing, sometimes bitter/sometimes not, and incredibly delicious! So how does one choose between them?! 

( Spoiler alert: I don’t! I freely partake in them both!)

All jokes aside, though, Italian cocktails are entirely underrated.

After all, Italy is the place that brought us the fizzy, fruity bellini and the tart and zesty limoncello. 

People often associate alcohol with Mexico, Russia, Thailand, and Germany, but when it comes to incredible cocktails, the Italians have it going on! 

Now, let’s take a look at some of Italy’s very best cocktails. 

1. Classic Aperol Spritz

This gorgeous golden-orange drink is bubbly, refreshing, and somewhat bitter.

If you’re looking for a lovely cocktail that isn’t so sweet that it gives you a toothache, this is an excellent option.

It takes only 3 minutes to make, and the ingredients are minimal.

You’ll need only ice, Aperol, dry prosecco, club soda, and an orange slice for the garnish. 

2. Easy Bellini  

If you’re looking for something a bit sweeter to enjoy, try the classic bellini, made with only three ingredients (prosecco, frozen sliced peaches, and peach juice) and fresh peaches for a garnish.

In case you were wondering, it tastes strongly of peaches. It’s also a beautiful golden color that’ll make your brunch table look like a million bucks. 

3. Classic Negroni

For those of us who enjoy a slightly bitter cocktail with just a hint of sweetness, the three-ingredient, 5-minute negroni is a perfect choice.

It contains one ounce each of gin, red vermouth (semi-sweet is best if you want the drink to retain its bite), and Campari. 

It tastes best served on ice, and don’t forget to add the cute orange peel to the glass for style! 

4. Italian Spritz

If bubbly, refreshing, and tart are more your style, try the Italian spritz instead.

You’ll combine prosecco and Aperol (or Campari) with a couple of slices of lemon and ice. 

It’s zesty and a lovely light pink, and if you enjoy drinks whose tart flavor will perk you right up, you’ll adore the Italian spritz. 

5. Italian Paloma Cocktail

Although Palomas are more closely associated with Mexico, the Italian Paloma is nothing to sneeze at, as my grandpa would’ve said.

It’s relatively low in calories and walks that fine line between bittersweet, sweet, and outright sour. 

The Campari gives it its wonderful color, and most of the flavor comes from the various juices – grapefruit, lime, and lemon.

Add the tequila, a little Italian orange soda, a pinch of salt, and simple syrup, and you’ll have a strong drink with a robust flavor that no one will forget.

6. Americano Cocktail

As you’ve probably already noticed, Italian drinks are often bitter, and the Americano cocktail is no exception.

It’s an old-school drink, and the recipe hasn’t changed much through the years. 

It combines Campari, vermouth, and soda water on ice.

The bitterness is somewhat tamed by the earthy, herb flavor of the vermouth, giving this drink a rich, dark flavor that’s hard to describe.

7. Limoncello Lemon Drop

This light yellow drink is basically very tart lemonade with a robust and vodka-infused flavor. 

It’s tasty and refreshing all year long, but it’s ideal for the warmer months of the year when the days are long, and the heat seems endless. 

If the sharp bite of lemon isn’t something you enjoy, you may want to skip the sugar rim, as the added sugar does nothing to cut down on that sour and acidic dose of lemon that hits your lips.

8. Rossini Cocktail

Unlike many of the drinks on this list, this vibrant, candy-colored cocktail is incredibly sweet.

It’s like a sweetened bellini made with strawberries instead of peaches.  

The light taste of the champagne blends right in with the simple syrup and strawberries, making it hard to tell there’s any alcohol in this sugary treat at all.

9. Hugo Cocktail

Hugo cocktails are similar to mojitos, but they’re not as strong. Instead of rum, you’ll use prosecco or sparkling white wine.

(Doing so lightens the alcohol taste, as well.)

You’ll also add a bit of sparkling water, which further dilutes the alcohol and gives the drink its stunning, sparkling appearance. 

Finally, you’ll sweeten it with elderflower syrup and add a few ice cubes and sprigs of mint.

It’s a clean, fresh cocktail that pairs well with most dishes.

10. Puccini Cocktail

Puccini cocktails are the ideal mixture of sweet and tangy, and like most cocktails on this list, they’re super simple to make. 

All you’ll need is your favorite citrus fruit (mandarin oranges, clementines, or tangerines are best), Mandarine Napoleon liqueur, and prosecco. 

The best way to describe them is to say they’re mimosas with a bite. 

11. Cranberry Pomegranate Prosecco Cocktail

These light, lovely mixed drinks are one of my all-time favorites to serve around the holiday season.

They look so festive with their sugared rims and cranberries and pomegranate arils as garnishes.

They’re also unbelievably tasty, and that’s coming from someone who isn’t gaga over cranberries.

You’ll simply mix a bottle of prosecco with some cranberry-pomegranate juice.

If you prefer a fruitier drink, go heavier on the juice. If you enjoy the dry flavor of prosecco, use more of it instead.

12. Milano-Torino Cocktail  

If you’re looking for a thicker, sweeter, and more potent version of the Americano cocktail, the Milano-Torino should suit you perfectly. 

It uses nearly the same recipe as the Americano, but it takes the soda water out of the equation, so nothing gets watered down. 

Additionally, you’ll use Vermouth di Torino, which is sweeter than traditional vermouth. 

13. Garibaldi Cocktail

You’ll make this sunset-colored drink with only two ingredients, and it shouldn’t take you longer than a couple of minutes.

It’s a thick, tart, and bitter drink that combines orange juice and Campari.

It’s ideal for those looking for a little hair of the dog or a mid-morning or brunch cocktail. 

14. Angelo Azzurro 

Angelo azzurro, or the blue angel, is a complete blast from the past. Check out any romantic comedy or romance movie from the late-80s/early-90s.

Chances are you’ll see someone drinking a blue angel.

It’s vibrantly blue, sweet, and strong. All it contains is gin, triple sec, and blue curacao.

That alone should tell you just how quickly and powerfully this drink will hit you. 

15. Negroni Sbagliato

I like how the recipe refers to this drink as a “mistaken” negroni.

In essence, that’s precisely what it is. The two recipes are almost identical. 

The only difference is that you’ll use sparkling wine instead of gin.

You’ll also use sweet vermouth, but plenty of people use that in their negronis anyway (though I prefer semi-sweet).

The result is a slightly less bitter negroni that’s also a touch sweeter than the original.

Depending on the ABV of your sparkling wine, it might not be as strong as the true negroni, either. 

16. Limoncello Gin Collins

This drink is a combination of the limoncello lemon drop and the Tom Collins. 

It features ingredients from both and combines them in a way that brings a rich, woodsy sweetness to the drink without overpowering its natural tartness. 

The mint is a nice touch, both in appearance and flavor, and the club soda gives the drink a gorgeous, two-tone appearance that starts clear and strengthens to a brighter yellow at the bottom.

17. Aperitini

The name of this charming orange drink may sound like “appletini,” but don’t get the two confused; they’re nothing alike. 

If you order an apertini hoping for an appletini, you’ll be sorely disappointed. 

To make this 5-minute drink, you’ll mix silver tequila, Aperol, Campari, orange juice, orange bitters, sugar syrup, and prosecco. 

The result is a bitter, tangy orange juice-like drink that’ll almost make your mouth pucker while drinking it. It’s strong, though, but it really is good.

It may take some getting used to if you’ve never had it before, however. In my opinion, it’s more of an “acquired taste.”

With these authentic Italian cocktails, you’ll almost feel like you’re on the Italian riviera! From an aperol spritz to a bellini to a classic negroni, you won’t be able to resist these drinks.

Ingredients

Classic Aperol Spritz

Easy Bellini

Classic Negroni

Italian Spritz

Italian Paloma Cocktail

Americano Cocktail

Limoncello Lemon Drop

Rossini Cocktail

Hugo Cocktail

Puccini Cocktail

Cranberry Pomegranate Prosecco Cocktail

Milano-Torino Cocktail

Garibaldi Cocktail

Angelo Azzurro

Negroni Sbagliato

Limoncello Gin Collins

Instructions

• Select your favorite recipe.
• Organize all the required ingredients.
• Prep an Italian cocktail in 30 minutes or less!

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10 Classic Italian Cocktails and How to Make Them at Home

These Italian cocktails are perfect for an at-home aperitivo.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

Whether you’re wandering the picturesque canals of Venice or touring historic Florence , no day in Italy is complete without an aperitivo. The pre-dinner aperitivo is an Italian tradition, which includes an early evening snack paired with a glass of wine, beer, or a cocktail. It might be a while before we’re sipping spritzes in a Roman piazza, but until we can travel again, we’ve got the next best thing: recipes for a few of the most iconic Italian cocktails.

Campari and Aperol are among the most common apéritifs in Italy, serving as main ingredients in classic Italian cocktails like the Aperol Spritz and Negroni. We’ve rounded up a few of our favorites, so you can bring Italy home, one delicious sip at a time. Go a step further and recreate a traditional Italian aperitivo at home with one of these cocktails and snacks like olives, cured meats, and focaccia. Finish your meal with some homemade limoncello — this Italian lemon liqueur is often served after dinner in southern Italy.

Related : More cocktail ideas

1. Aperol Spritz

The Aperol Spritz is a classic Italian cocktail that’s gained popularity stateside in recent years. Perfect for summer evenings, this drink is sweet, refreshing, and easy to make, with just three ingredients needed.

Aperol Spritz Recipe: In a glass full of ice, combine prosecco followed by Aperol in equal parts. Add a splash of soda and garnish with an orange slice.

Although sometimes overlooked for mimosas when it comes to sweet brunch cocktails, Bellinis are refreshing and delicious. Originally created in Venice, this cocktail combines prosecco with peach nectar or puree for a delightfully fruity drink.

Bellini Recipe: Pour two parts prosecco and one part peach puree in a glass, then garnish with a peach slice.

If you like Bellinis, you’ll probably love Rossinis, too. This sparkling cocktail combines prosecco and strawberries for a fresh take on the classic Bellini.

Rossini Recipe: Pour two parts prosecco and one part strawberry puree in a Champagne flute, and garnish with a strawberry.

Ever since Stanley Tucci showed us how he makes Negronis at home in a video posted to Instagram, this concoction has been popping up everywhere. It’s a beloved classic cocktail for a reason — balanced and bittersweet, it makes for the perfect pre-dinner drink.

Negroni Recipe: Pour one part Campari, one part 1757 Vermouth di Torino Rosso, and one part Bulldog Gin over ice in a glass. Stir for 15 seconds. Garnish with an orange peel or slice.

5. Boulevardier

Known as the Negroni's cousin, this cocktail combines American bourbon with Italian Campari and vermouth under a French name — perhaps not a traditionally Italian cocktail, but it's delicious nonetheless.

Boulevardier Recipe: Combine equal parts Russell’s Reserve 10 Year Old Bourbon, 1757 Vermouth di Torino, and Campari in a glass, stir until combined, and pour over a large ice cube to serve.

5. Campari Soda

A simple Campari soda is the perfect way to enjoy the bitterness of Campari without any other flavors. Plus, with just two ingredients, this is a super-simple Italian cocktail.

Campari Soda Recipe: Mix two parts Campari and one part soda water. Stir and pour over ice. Garnish with an orange slice.

6. Garibaldi

If you thought we were done with Campari cocktails, think again. This cocktail mixes the Italian aperitif with orange juice for a sweeter drink. Take it up a notch by using freshly squeezed orange juice.

Garibaldi Recipe: Mix equal parts Campari and orange juice, and pour over ice. Garnish with an orange slice.

8. Americano

First served in the 1860s, this cocktail has a long and storied history. Make it for yourself at home with Campari, vermouth, and soda water.

Americano Recipe: Pour one part Campari, one part 1757 Vermouth di Torino Rosso, and a splash of soda water in a glass over a large ice cube. Garnish with a lemon peel.

9. Averna Limonata

A traditional Sicilian amaro, Averna was created in 1868. For those unfamiliar, it's bittersweet and herbal, with licorice and orange notes, and you can drink it on its own after dinner or mix it into a cocktail like the Averna Limonata.

Averna Limonata Recipe: Combine two parts Averna with one part fresh lemon juice and 0.5 part simple syrup over crushed ice. Top with soda water and garnish with seasonal herbs like mint, rosemary, or sage to bring out the liqueur's herbal notes.

10. Negroni Bianco

Another take on the classic Negroni, this Negroni Bianco created by Wayne Collins uses the clear Luxardo Bitter Bianco in place of Campari and a Bianco vermouth.

Negroni Bianco Recipe: Pour equal parts Oxley Gin, Luxardo Bitter Bianco, and Martini & Rossi Bianco Vermouth in a rocks glass filled with ice, and stir.

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11 Italian Cocktails You Can Make at Home

By Alex Erdekian

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

When we think drinks in Italy, the first image that comes to mind is likely a bottle of red flowing into glasses around the table—vino is certainly the drink of choice come dinnertime. But let’s not forget about those magical hours before dinner: aperitivo. From 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., bars serve cocktails and light nibbles of olives, cheese, and potato chips, engineered to stimulate the, you guessed it, appetite. And because Italian drinking culture is less about getting buzzed and more about lingering at the table with friends, the cocktails are often a bit lower in alcohol, meaning it's easy to drink down a few. We may not be able to make films like the Italians, kick back like the Italians, or dress like the Italians , but drinking like them is a cinch. Here are 11 Italian cocktails you can make at home now ... or order at a bar sometime (hopefully) soon. Spritzes here we come. Saluti!

If any drink is Italian cocktail-core, it’s the Negroni . Equal parts dry gin, sweet vermouth , and Campari stirred over ice and garnished with an orange slice (or peel if you’re in America), this is a cocktail with flair and flavor. In recent years, the Negroni has become so popular that it was able to support a charity initiative called Negroni Week, during which more than a thousand bars and restaurants around the world participate. Perhaps it’s the simple, irresistible combination of bitter and refreshing. Or the instagrammable red hue. Given that you probably have the booze on hand, large ice cubes, like the ones this tray makes, are the other key. They melt slower, allowing the flavors to remain intact for longer.

Try it at home: Peak extra-large ice cube tray, $13, crateandbarrel.com

This ancestor of the Negroni, originally called a Milano-Torino, got its name by becoming a favorite of Americans abroad in Italy in the early twentieth century. It's even the first drink James Bond orders in Ian Fleming's beloved books. "Bond always had the same thing—an Americano—Bitter Campari, Cinzano, a large slice of lemon peel and soda," he writes. "For the soda he always stipulated Perrier, for in his opinion expensive soda water was the cheapest way to improve a poor drink." To make it yourself, mix one part Campari, one part sweet vermouth, and a splash of soda water in a glass, and serve with a lemon slice. Do as Bond does, and splurge on the Perrier—its surplus of tiny bubbles is key to the drink's bite.

Try it at home: Perrier 24-bottle-pack, from $27, quill.com

We may as well go ahead and thank the Italians for brunch too, because it just wouldn’t be as celebratory an affair without a few rounds of bellinis. The peachy-pink drink consists of white peach pureé topped with fizzing, bubbling Prosecco. In Italy, it’s common to marinate the peaches in wine before mixing them into the glass. The Bellini originated at Harry’s Bar in Venice , which Ernest Hemingway and Truman Capote frequented, and its namesake is Renaissance painter Giovanni Bellini, whose palettes were redolent of the drink's rosy hue. You can puree your own white peaches at home when they’re in season, and frozen when they’re not—but either way, these crystal flute glasses are a fitting vessel.

Try it at home : Crystal flute glasses, from $24, wayfair.com

Jessica Chapel

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Jessica Puckett

The Bellini is so beloved that naturally, it has many spinoffs. And it's the Rossini we turn to when want to sip one. Sweet, sour, fruity, and floral, it swaps strawberries for white peaches, but keeps the other essential ingredient, Prosecco. Serve it at brunch or, since strawberry pairs better than peach with chocolate, it also makes an excellent dessert cocktail. A reliable food processor at your fingertips is a necessity for mixing up fresh, fruity purees like this one requires.

Try it at home: Cuisinart 14-Cup Food Processor, Brushed Stainless Steel, $200, amazon.com

Angelo Azzuro

For an Italian cocktail that’s retro, lesser-known, and comfortingly Smurfish, we give you the Angelo Azzuro. Translating to Blue Angel, it mixes three ounces gin, one and a half ounces triple sec, and half an ounce of blue curaçao, all shaken then strained into a martini glass, garnished with a lemon peel. Though it had a moment of fame when it became a discotheque stalwart across Italy in the 1990s, its origin is uncertain—some say sky-high ABV levels, which give the feel of soaring through heaven, inspired the name. Fun fact: it’s also the go-to drink for Miami Vice character Det. James Crockett (played by Don Johnson). Be sure to get a good-quality curacao like this one to ensure that bright blue hue.

Try it at home: Boulaine Blue Curacao, $7, drizly.com

Negroni Sbagliato

Sbagliato loosely translates to English as "mistaken," or “messed up,” so this is a Negroni gone wrong. But the Italians are wise enough to know that mistakes can be as delicious as a perfectly executed recipe. Legend has it, it was born when a busy bartender at Milan’s Bar Basso accidentally grabbed a misplaced Prosecco bottle while making a classic Negroni. The Sbagliato, therefore, isn't as alcoholic or famously bitter as the OG; instead, it's a festive, celebratory twist that might be, dare we say it, more fun. Any Prosecco works here, but the dryness and fruity bouquet of Mionetto make it a solid choice—it also doesn’t hurt that it’s widely available.

Aperol Spritz

What else could be on the menu for happy hour on a summer Friday at 4:45 p.m. but a spritz. There are all kinds of Italian spritzes—the common denominators are Prosecco and sparkling water—but this version is timeless. Its distinguishing feature is Aperol, a bright orange bitter Italian liqueur of gentian, rhubarb, and cinchona. It’s mixed with Prosecco and club soda, garnished with an orange slice, and served on ice in a large-bowled wine glass. Also called a Spritz Veneziano, it has roots in Venice , where it’s served commonly at aperitivo around the city.

For an alternative style of spritz, enter the Hugo. Originating in the independent Tyrolean region of Alto Adige of Northern Italy, it’s their aperitivo of choice in the mountains. This variety, like all spritzes, has Prosecco and sparkling water, but its star ingredients are elderflower syrup and mint leaves—both ingredients that proliferate in the surrounding Dolomites. These cooling flavors are made even more refreshing on ice and with the optional add of lime.

What can we say, the Italians love their Campari. In addition to the Negroni, another classic use of the red aperitivo liqueur is in a Garibaldi, where it's blended with orange juice. It also happens to be the flagship cocktail of the famed Dante in New York City . A three-to-one ratio of orange juice to Campari makes for a sweet sip, worthy of an Amalfi Coast sunset seen from a rooftop restaurant. And if OJ didn’t make the cut in your most recent grocery store run, never fear— Campari is so aromatic that it’s lovely with nothing but soda water and a slice of orange, too.

Spiked Affogato

An Affogato has almost everything we love about Italian food and drink—a scoop of gelato soaked in a shot of espresso , topped off with a splash of amaretto. The only thing that’s missing is a real liquor. The perfect addition to take this bittersweet dessert into cocktail territory is one ounce of a rich, dark rum (though variations with whiskey and even stout are out there). Serve in a freezer-chilled saucer glass for the ultimate presentation. Italians don’t mess around when it comes to coffee, so to recreate at home, make your espresso with one of Italy’s household mainstays—a moka pot.

Try it at home: Bialetti stovetop espresso pot, $20, amazon.com

Another love child of Italian drink and dessert is the Sgroppino—and this one will surprise you with how delicious it is. The slushy, citrusy concoction blends lemon sorbet, Prosecco, and vodka into a frothy, creamy, boozy treat. It originated as a palate cleanser, but now is commonly served as a full-size cocktail. And, in an unexpected twist, it's popular in summer, where you'll find Italians drinking it mid-day by the beach, when they need a break from the heat. Even if you're not by the sand, it's a perfect warm-weather blend: Whip all ingredients together and strain into a coupe glass for a fancy take.

Try it at home: Schott Zwiesel Note Coupe Glass, $12, williams-sonoma.com

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23 CLASSIC Italian Cocktails To Make at Home – Italian Dreams

If you want to enjoy traditional Italian cocktails at home but don’t know where to start, we’ve got you covered! We’ve rounded up 23 classic Italian cocktails that are perfect for any occasion. If you’re looking for a way to spice up your  Italian alcohol cocktail game, Italy is the place to be. The country has been producing some of the most iconic and delicious drinks in history.

Whether it’s an intimate gathering or a big party, Italian alcoholic drinks will have everyone feeling like they’re sitting on the Amalfi Coast without even leaving their living room. So get out those shakers and mixers because tonight there’s no better excuse than to have an Italian one! 

How Italy Has Contributed to Italian Cocktails We Simply Love!

Italian cocktails are a thing of beauty. Italy is the birthplace of many classic cocktails , including the Negroni and Aperol Spritz.

But did you know that Italy has also contributed to other popular drinks like the Bellini, Vesper Martini, and Americano? Join us as we explore how these popular Italian cocktails came about.

You’ll be able to make some of your favorite Italian-inspired cocktails at home with this handy guide! We’ve included recipes for classics like Negroni and Aperol Spritz, as well as lesser-known but equally impressive concoctions like the Bellini or Vesper Martini.

Plus, we’ve got tips on how to find authentic ingredients in your local grocery store so you can enjoy these drinks anytime you want! So what are you waiting for? Get ready to shake things up with an Italian cocktail tonight.

Italian Cocktail Recipes For You to Try at Home

Spritz veneziano (aperol spritz).

The Italian classic , the Aperol spritz, is a refreshing drink popular in northern Italy and has come to be associated with summer.

The recipe for an authentic Aperol Spritz entails using a bitter orange-flavored spirit called Aperol, which gives it its beautiful sunset color and bittersweet flavor profile.

It’s made by mixing dry sparkling wine such as Prosecco, but many variations exist depending on personal taste preferences, like adding more or less of your favorite mixer (like soda).

Ingredients

• 2 oz Prosecco
• 4 oz Club soda or seltzer

Instructions

• Pour the ingredients into your glass over ice cubes.
• Stir gently before serving.

If you want to get fancy, garnish with an orange slice on top.

Sgroppino al Limone

The Sgroppino al Limone is a delicious Italian dessert cocktail that features lemon sorbetto, Prosecco, and vodka. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, acidic, and robust flavors to end your meal on an indulgent high note.

Make this in bulk for four servings (the recipe makes enough), freeze it for a few hours before you’re ready to indulge, or serve as party favors at your next birthday gathering!

• Lemon sorbetto
• 1 cup of dry prosecco
• Mint leaves
• Soak the sorbet in a bowl to soften.
• Pour in the prosecco and vodka, whisking until smooth.
• Freeze for at least two hours before pouring into four glasses with mint leaves on top.

This drink is a classic Italian cocktail that will amaze your taste buds with subtle flavors. The Hugo combines elderflower spritz, dry sparkling white wine, and soda water for an easy-to-drink beverage. With its subtle but fantastic flavors that make it one of the best Italian cocktails for summer , there is no better time than now to give it a taste!

• 4 oz Prosecco 
• 1 oz Soda Water 
• 1 oz Elderflower cordial
• ½ Orange wheel
• Fresh mint leaves
• Fill a wide brim wine glass with prosecco, then top it off with some fresh ice.
• Add in elderflower and soda water to combine.
• Add an orange wheel, mint leaves, and lime wedge for garnish.

The Puccini is a refreshing cocktail that will be perfect for winter. This drink has variations from the Rossini and substitutes mandarin juice with peaches or strawberries and orange liqueur in place of champagne to make it more festive yet still nice and refreshing!

• 3oz Chilled prosecco
• 1oz Mandarin juice 
• Squeeze the mandarin juice into a champagne glass .
• Add prosecco gradually until it reaches the desired taste.

This delicious Torino liqueur is perfect for a festive evening. It has hints of earl grey tea, lavender, and citrus that will leave you feeling refreshed and ready to party. Italians have been drinking this since 1906, so it’s safe to say they know their stuff!

• 1.5 oz Italicus
• 3 pitted green olives 
• Start by filling a glass with ice, then pour over the Italicus and top it off with prosecco.
• Add olives on a cocktail stick to serve yourself (or your guest) this delicious drink!

Sparkling Wine

The Bellini is a classic brunch drink that originated in Italy. The original recipe includes peach puree and prosecco wine, but variations now also include vodka or champagne.

Whether you prefer it with alcohol or without, the sweet flavor of peaches pairs well with either option for an unforgettable taste experience any time of day!

• 1 Bottle prosecco (or champagne)
• 2 Tablespoons of peach puree
• 3/4 oz Vodka
• Ice cubes (to chill your drink if needed)
• Pour the champagne into a wine glass .
• Add the peach puree and vodka to taste.
• Stir gently with a spoon or straw until well blended.
• Add more peach puree for sweeter flavor or less for drier flavor, depending on preference.
• Serve chilled over ice cubes if desired!

Sweet Vermouth

The Negroni is the perfect drink for a chilly evening. It’s like drinking an Italian sunset in liquid form, with notes of bitterness and sweetness balanced by gin and vermouth. If you’re intent on sitting out under the stars this winter while sipping something warm to take off those cold chills – look no further!

• ½ oz Campari 
• ½ oz Sweet vermouth 
• Mix all three ingredients over ice.
• Stir well and strain into a chilled glass filled with ice cubes or crushed ice.
• Garnish with an orange twist or slice if desired.

Milano-Torino

The Mi-To is a popular Italian drink that was invented in the 1860s. It contains equal parts of Campari and sweet vermouth for an ideal balance between bitterness and sweetness, making it perfect to sip on while people watch outdoor cafes during sunny afternoons.

• 1.5 oz Campari 
• 1.5 oz Sweet vermouth
• Orange slice
• Fill a tall glass with crushed ice.
• Pour in Campari and sweet vermouth.
• Add an orange slice to garnish.

The Italian Gin and It is a drink with an interesting origin. If you replaced the dry vermouth in a martini, it would turn into this cocktail that tastes like sweet wine on ice.

• ¾  oz  Sweet vermouth
• Fill a highball glass with ice.
• Add gin and vermouth.
• Garnish with the cherry.

An Americano is a delightful, fizzy cocktail that will introduce you to the world of so-called “ Italiano aperitivo hour.” Served in highball glasses and combining Campari, sweet vermouth, and soda water, this Italian aperitif combines two worlds for one spectacular taste sensation!

• 1.5 Sweet vermouth 
• Seltzer water or club soda
• Orange twist
• Mix Campari and sweet vermouth into a highball glass filled with ice.
• Top with club soda.
• Add an orange twist for garnish.

The Pirlo is a creative and delicious Italian apéritif . It was invented in Brescia, Italy, and contains Campari instead of Aperol, making it more bitter with hints of rhubarb that make the drink perfect as an appetizer or after-dinner treat ( aperitivo in Italian).

• 1.5 oz Campari
• Fresh orange peel
• 3 oz prosecco
• ¾ oz club soda
• Pour the Campari, prosecco, and club soda into a wine glass filled with ice.
• Stir gently with a swizzle stick or bar straw until well combined.
• Garnish with an orange peel for flavor.

Garibaldi is a refreshing and balanced drink with Italian ingredients. This delicious cocktail includes Campari, fresh-squeezed orange juice, and sparkling water for the perfect balance of citrusy sweetness with just enough bitterness to create your sunny afternoon in a glass.

• Orange wedge
• 4 oz Freshly squeezed orange juice
• Combine the Campari and orange juice in a mixing glass with ice cubes.
• Stir well for 30 seconds or until chilled.
• Add orange wedge for garnish. 

The Cardinale is an excellent cocktail that can be made with any type of liquor. It’s perfect for the summer and winter seasons, as well as anytime you’re feeling adventurous. This recipe is easy to make and will impress your friends at your next party.

• 1/2 oz Dry vermouth
• 2 dashes of orange bitters
• Add all the ingredients into a mixing glass filled with ice cubes.
• Stir until chilled.
• Strain into a martini glass or coupe (depending on preference).
• Garnish with an orange slice or twist if desired.

The Buona Vita cocktail is not only refreshing but perfect for the literary elite. With a mix of gin and Campari with grapefruit juice, it’s sure to be your favorite drink.

• 1 oz Campari
• 1/2 oz Sweet vermouth
• 3/4 oz Fresh orange juice
• 1 dash Angostura bitters
• Combine all ingredients into a shaker filled with ice cubes.
• Shake well until chilled.
• Strain into an old-fashioned glass over ice cubes.
• Garnish with an orange slice (optional).

Rosini is the perfect drink for any occasion. It’s easy to make, tastes delicious, and is sure to be a hit at your next party. This classic Italian cocktail has been around since the 1800s, and it’s still going strong today.

• 3 oz strawberry juice
• 2 oz Spumante Brut
• Start by pouring 3 oz of strawberries into a glass (we recommend Nettare di fragole ).
• Top it off with 2 oz Spumante Brut.
• Stir gently until well mixed.

Negroni Sbagliato

This cocktail is made with gin, Campari, and sparkling wine. It’s light but still packs a punch. You can make it in any glass you want, but we recommend using a champagne flute so that you can taste the bubbles of your favorite fizzy beverage.

• Fill your glass with 2 oz of gin.
• Add 1 oz of Campari, then top off with brut.
• Gently stir until combined.
• Serve immediately while cold.

Dry Vermouth

Martinis are perfect for any time of day, but they’re especially good when you want something light and refreshing, like during summertime or after a heavy meal. They also go well with appetizers, seafood dishes, pasta dishes, salads, and desserts! You can even serve them as part of your signature cocktail menu!

• 1 oz Dry vermouth
• Fill the shaker halfway with ice cubes, then add 3 oz gin.
• Top off 1 oz dry vermouth.
• Shake until cold.
• Strain into chilled glass.
• Garnish with olive.

Blue Curacao

Angelo azzuro.

Angelo Azzuro is a refreshing, fruity drink perfect for any time of year. This cocktail can be made with or without alcohol and is best served in an old-fashioned glass. It’s easy to make and tastes great!

• 1 oz Blue Curacao
• 2 oz Pineapple juice
• Fill your glass with ice
• Add 1 oz of blue curacao
• Add 2 oz of pineapple juice
• Garnish with lime

The Godfather is one of the most popular Italian cocktails for winter . It’s made with vodka, Kahlua, and cream. This drink can be served on the rocks or straight up, depending on your preference. It tastes best when it’s cold outside, so make sure you’re drinking this during the winter months.

• 1 oz Vodka (or Rum)
• 1/2 oz Kahlua
• 2 Tsp Cream
• Ice Cubes (optional)
• Cocktail Shaker
• Add ice cubes into the shaker if desired.
• Pour in vodka and Kahlua.
• Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.
• Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice cubes if desired.
• Garnish with whipped cream topping and serve immediately.

Brooklyn Reloaded

Brooklyn is the perfect cocktail to cool you down on a hot day. It’s also great for any time of year, but it’s delicious in the summer when you need something light and refreshing. This Italian drink has been around since Prohibition times, so it’s got some history behind it.

• 0.25 oz Amaro Lucano Anniversario 
• 0.17 oz Luxardo Maraschino
• 1.5 oz Bulleit rye whiskey
• 0.5 oz Cocchi Americano Bianco
• Slice of caramelized orange
• Place the slice of caramelized orange in a mixing glass.
• Add all other ingredients (excluding ice) overtop while gently muddling them into perfection.
• Add ice cube as you stir.
• Strain into a tall glass.
• Add another ice cube.

Spiked Affogato

Spiked Affogato is the perfect cocktail for any time of year. It’s made with espresso, vanilla ice cream, and Bailey’s Irish Cream. The ingredients are easy to find at your local grocery store or liquor store. You can make this delicious cocktail in less than five minutes.

• 1 scoop of vanilla ice cream
• 2 shots of espresso
• 1 shot of Baileys Irish Cream
• Put 1 scoop of vanilla ice cream in the bottom of your glass.
• Pour 2 shots (or about 4 tablespoons) of espresso over the top.
• Add 1 shot (or about 2 tablespoons) of Baileys Irish Cream on top.
• Mix everything together with a spoon.

Sgroppino is a refreshing Italian cocktail that’s perfect for the summer. It’s made with vodka, prosecco, and lemon juice. The name means “shaken” in Italian because it should be shaken before serving. This recipe will show you how to make one.

• 3/4 oz Lemon juice
• 4-5 ice cubes
• Put all ingredients into a shaker or mixing glass filled with ice cubes.
• Shake vigorously until chilled (about 30 seconds).
• Strain into an iced martini glass or wine goblet.
• Garnish with lemon peel if desired.

Limoncello Spritz

Limoncello Spritz is the perfect Italian cocktail with limoncello for any time of year. It’s light, sweet, and tangy with just enough alcohol to make you feel like you are on vacation. This cocktail has been around since the late 1800s, when it was originally made with limoncello liqueur from Sorrento, Italy.

• 2 oz Limoncello (or any other lemon-flavored liqueur)
• 1/2 oz Simple syrup or sugar
• 1/4 cup Club Soda
• 4 cups Ice cubes
• Lemon slices for garnish
• Combine all ingredients except the lemon slices into a shaker tin filled with ice cubes
• Strain into chilled glass
• Garnish with fresh lemon slice

One For The Road!

One thing is for sure–you’ll never drink the same way again. This article has opened up a whole new world of possibilities, and we can’t wait to see your classic Italian cocktails ! So go ahead, pour yourself one more glass of that delicious Italian cocktail , and get ready to have some fun experimenting with these recipes at home.

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An Italian Mama's Guide to Italy

9 Delicious classic Italian cocktails you will love (+ how to make them)

9 delicious traditional and classic Italian cocktails: their history and how you can recreate them at home.

Italian drinks are often overshadowed by the notoriety of Italian food.

However, Italy is the proud creator of cocktails of world fame, who saw the light in elegant bars of the Italian peninsula and them reached the far corners of the world.

Some of them are perfect for the tradition of Italian aperitivo and al fresco drinks, others are more suited to late nights and cozy interiors.

Whatever the occasion, these are 9 of the most delicious and traditional Italian cocktails and quick tips to make them at home.

Traditional Italian Cocktails chart

Most popular traditional italian cocktails, bellini: the elegant italian cocktails that mixes prosecco and white peach puree.

Bellini is a delightful Italian prosecco cocktail born at the elegant Harry’s Bar in Venice.

History tells us that in 1948, an exhibition of paintings by Master Bellini was planned for a grand opening in Venice and its curator wanted to treat its guests to something special, a drink created just for the occasion.

To see his vision come to life, he approached Cipriani, owner of Venice’s iconic Harry’s bar, and Cipriani delivered a drink that was not only delicious and local but also wonderfully elegant and in line for the occasion.

Inspired by the special shade of the bishops’ clothing Bellini’s paintings, Cipriani created a drink in the same shade, obtained mixing prosecco with the pulp of white peaches from Verona.

Ingredients to replicate it at home:

• 10cl Prosecco or champagne if making a ‘Bellini Royale’
• 5cl White peaches
• Served in a flute
• Find the full recipe for peach bellini here

Rossini, Italian cocktail with prosecco and strawberries

The Rossini cocktail is a variation on the Bellini, the main different being the substitution of peach puree with fresh strawberries.

Like the Bellini, it is served in a flute and it is a summer, pre-meal drink and it requires fresh seasonal produce for the best result.

• 10cl Prosecco
• 5cl Fresh Strawberries
• Lemon juice
• Served in champagne glass

Puccini cocktail with prosecco and mandarin juice

The Puccini cocktail can be considered a winter variation on the Bellini concept, since it mixed prosecco or champagne with the juice of mandarin.

The cocktail came to life in the bar of the elegant Hotel Posta in Cortina d’Ampezzo, a stylish ski station on the Italian Dolomites, and his creator is Renato Hausmann who first mixed in it 1948.

Ingredients to make it at home:

• 7cl Prosecco/Champagne
• 3cl Fresh Mandarin Juice
• Serve in a flute

Aperol Spritz the most famous of all Italian cocktails for aperitivo

The Aperol Spritz is maybe the best known aperitivo drink in Italy, a drink so common it is also synonym with the concept of Italian aperitivo itself.

However, this cocktail has a long history that saw several stages of evolution and variations before it got to the orange delight we are used to today.

The Spritz seems to have been already on existence in Veneto and the Venice region in the 1800s.

At that time, the drink was a mix of white wine and sparkling water and it was popular especially with Austro-Hungarians soldiers who gave it its name.

In the 1920s, the idea to add bitter to this concoction was born and the Spritz as we know it now came to life.

Aperol was added first in Padova and while several variants now exist, the mix of prosecco and Aperol is what is now considered a Spritz Veneziano (Venetian Spritz) by the International Bar Tender Association.

• 3 parts Prosecco (flat wine wine is also used in some variations of it)
• 2 parts Aperol
• 1 part soda/seltz
• Served in large wine glass
• Find the full Aperol Spritz recipe here

Campari Spritz, a spritz with a twist

Campari Spritz is a variation on the Spritz above that uses Campari instead of Aperol.

The result is bitter than its Aperol counterpart and the color a deep red, rather than a light orange, and it is under al points of view as delightful.

The Campari version of the spritz seems to have been born in Milan.

• 3 parts Prosecco
• 2 parts Campari
• 1 part Soda water
• Served in: large wine glass

You can find the exact recipe for Campari Spritz here .

Hugo, a delicate Italian cocktail from Alto Adige

Hugo Cocktails is lesser known Spritz however, it is a lovely light Italian cocktail with a base of prosecco worth trying.

Its creator is Roland Gruber and his region of origin Alto Adige: the cocktail mixes prosecco, mint and melissa officinalis , which gives the cocktail a wonderfully aromatic taste.

Since the melissa syrup is often hard to get, Hugo is often served by elderflower syrup instead.

• 15cl Prosecco
• 2cl Melissa syrup / elderflower
• Dash of soda water /Seltz
• Served in a large wine glass
• Find step by step recipe for Hugo here .

Americano, classic Italian cocktail for after dinner

Americano is the name of a classic Italian cocktails born in Milan in the 1930s.

It mixes Campari, vermouth and soda and it is served in an old fashioned glass, with ice.

The drink is similar to the famous Negroni, an Italian Cocktail now so famous to be legendary and there are different variations on the story of which one was born first.

Whatever story we want to go with, there is no doubt that Americano is often considered a ‘first step’ before a Negroni however, it is also exceptionally popular in its own right and one of the Italian cocktails ever.

• 30ml Campari
• 30ml Vermouth
• Served in old fashioned glass, with ice

Negroni, maybe the most famous of Italian cocktails

Negroni is a classic Italian cocktail so popular it is now almost legendary.

People who love Negroni (like me!) wax lyrical about it an while its strong punch makes it a ‘men’s drink’, it is actually very popular across the whole spectrum of cocktail lovers.

It is an elegant, delicious drink perfect for after dinner and late nights and it seems to have been born by the request of Count Negroni, in Florence, in 1919.

• 1/3 Vermouth
• 1/3 Campari
• Served in old fashioned glass with orange peel

Find the full recipe for a perfect Negroni cocktail here .

Negroni Sbagliato, the best ‘wrong’ Italian cocktail

Sbagliato in Italian means ‘wrong’ or ‘mistaken’, however, there is nothing flawed about this delicious variation on the classic Negroni cocktials.

The sbagliato is said to have been born in Milan and has the same base as a Negroni but substitutes prosecco or champagne to gin, making the taste sweeter and the overall cocktail lighter.

• 1/3 Prosecco
• Served in old fashioned glass

I hope you enjoyed this quick overview of classic Italian cocktails and gave you some good ideas on what to order in Italy and what to try make at home!

If you are looking for more Italian drinks ideas, you may also enjoy this article about Italian digestive drinks . Happy Italian sipping!

Marta Correale

Marta Correale is an Italian mama of two. Born and raised in Rome, Marta has a passion for travel and especially enjoys showing off Italy to her kids, who are growing up to love it as much as she does! A classics graduate, teacher of Italian as a second language and family travel blogger, Marta launched Mama Loves Italy as a way to inspire, support and help curious visitors to make the most of a trip to Italy and learn about Italian culture on the way.

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24 Italian Craft Cocktails to Transport You to a Tuscan Terrace

Italy is a country of rich culture, history, and tradition. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the bustling streets of Rome, Italy has something for everyone.

One of the most celebrated aspects of Italian culture is its cuisine, which is known for its bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Italian cuisine has inspired people all over the world, and it has also inspired some of the most delicious cocktails in the world.

Italian craft cocktails are known for their sophistication, complexity, and depth of flavor. They are made using the finest ingredients, and they are crafted with precision and care.

These cocktails are perfect for any occasion, whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just relaxing with friends.

The best Italian craft cocktails are a reflection of the country's rich history and culture. They are inspired by the flavors and traditions of Italy, and they are crafted using techniques that have been passed down from generation to generation.

These cocktails are a celebration of Italy's culinary heritage, and they are a testament to the country's passion for food and drink.

In this blog post, we will explore some of the best Italian craft cocktail recipes. From classic drinks like the Negroni and the Aperol Spritz to modern creations like the Amalfi Coast and the Sicilian Sunset, we will take you on a journey through the world of Italian craft cocktails.

So sit back, relax, and get ready to discover some of the most delicious and sophisticated cocktails in the world.

1. Arancia Italiano

Arancia Italiano is a smooth and delicious Amaretto cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. This Italian-inspired cocktail has hints of orange and is dressed up for fine dining, but easy enough to make at home. The cocktail is made with Stirrings Cocktail Mixers, and the Lemon Drop Rimmer Cocktail Garnish gives it an extra ooh la la factor.

The Arancia Italiano is perfect for those who love to try new drinks and enjoy a little bit of sweetness in their cocktails. This cocktail is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more. So, if you're looking for a new Italian craft cocktail recipe to try, the Arancia Italiano is definitely worth a shot!

2. Lemon Prosecco Float Sgroppino

If you're looking for a refreshing and unique Italian craft cocktail, the Lemon Prosecco Float Sgroppino is a must-try. Made with only three ingredients – lemon sorbet, vodka, and Prosecco – this cocktail is sweet, tangy, and bubbly all at once. It's the perfect drink to enjoy on a warm summer day, whether as a palate cleanser after a big meal or as a light aperitif.

The addition of vodka adds a subtle sharpness to balance out the sweetness of the sorbet, while the Prosecco adds a delightful effervescence. Served with amaretti or little cantuccini biscuits, this cocktail is a delicious and refreshing treat that's sure to impress.

3. Grilled Tangerine Frozen Negroni

The Grilled Tangerine Frozen Negroni is a unique take on the classic Negroni cocktail, perfect for summer sipping. This frozen version features the bitter grapefruit notes of Campari and the herbal notes of gin and vermouth, with a twist of sweet caramelized citrus from grilled tangerines.

The grilled tangerine adds a nice sweetness that smooths out the rough bitter edges of the Negroni, making this a refreshing and delicious slushie version of the classic cocktail. If you're looking for a creative and refreshing Italian craft cocktail, the Grilled Tangerine Frozen Negroni is definitely worth a try.

The Negroni is a classic Italian cocktail that is a perfect balance of earthy, bitter, and sweet flavors. It is made with gin, Campari, and sweet red vermouth, and is finished off with a flamed orange peel.

The ruby-like jewel tones of the cocktail paired with the bright orange peel garnish make it visually stunning and perfect for any occasion. Its unique flavor profile and rich history make it a standout in the world of Italian craft cocktails.

5. Vampire Cynar Negroni

Looking for a spooky twist on a classic cocktail? Look no further than the Vampire Cynar Negroni! This Italian craft cocktail takes the traditional Negroni recipe and adds a Halloween flair with a smoking sprig of rosemary and a touch of dry ice for a foggy effect. The use of Cynar, an Italian digestivo, brings a sweet earthiness to the cocktail while adding a hint of midnight color.

Strawberry-infused Campari adds a bitter note and a bright red color, making it a perfect addition to this vampire-inspired cocktail. With its unique blend of flavors and eerie presentation, the Vampire Cynar Negroni is sure to be a hit at any Halloween party.

6. Cynar Toronto

The Cynar Toronto is a must-try Italian craft cocktail that perfectly balances sweet and bitter flavors. This stirred drink is a modern twist on the classic old fashioned, with the addition of Cynar, an Italian amaro made with thirteen herbs and botanicals, including artichokes.

Despite its unusual ingredient, Cynar is surprisingly light and sugary in taste, making it a versatile ingredient for cocktails. The Cynar Toronto is a perfect example of this, with its complex yet approachable flavor profile. Whether you're looking for a before-meal apéritif or an after-dinner nightcap, the Cynar Toronto is a delicious option that is sure to impress.

7. Limoncello Spritz

Looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make Italian cocktail? Look no further than the Limoncello Spritz. This crisp and bubbly drink is made with just three ingredients: limoncello, Prosecco, and soda. The sweet and tart flavors of the limoncello pair perfectly with the bubbly Prosecco, making for a drink that is both refreshing and satisfying.

Whether you're sipping it on a hot summer day or enjoying it as a brunch substitute for mimosas, the Limoncello Spritz is sure to please. So why not give it a try and transport yourself to the Italian coast with just one sip?

8. Aperol Spritz

The Aperol Spritz is a classic Italian aperitif that has been enjoyed for generations. This refreshing cocktail is made with Aperol, Prosecco, and soda water, and is garnished with a slice of orange and an olive. It's the perfect drink to enjoy before a meal, or as a mid-day pick-me-up.

The 3, 2, 1 method makes it easy to remember the recipe, and the simple ingredients make it easy to whip up at home. With its bright orange color and bubbly texture, the Aperol Spritz is a crowd-pleaser that is sure to impress. Whether you're sipping it on a sunny patio or enjoying it at a bustling bar, the Aperol Spritz is a must-try Italian craft cocktail that will leave you wanting more.

9. Fernet Braca Cocktail

The Fernet Braca Cocktail is a unique and refreshing Italian craft cocktail that is perfect for those looking for something different. Made with Fernet Branca, an herbal liqueur that is sourced from over 40 herbs and spices from four continents, this cocktail has a heady aroma and a complex flavor profile.

The addition of orange and ginger gives it a citrusy and spicy kick that perfectly complements the herbal notes of the Fernet Branca. This cocktail is a great way to celebrate National Herbs and Spices Day and is sure to impress your guests with its unique flavor. If you're looking for a new and exciting Italian craft cocktail to try, the Fernet Braca Cocktail is definitely worth a try.

10. Limoncello Gin Cocktail

The Limoncello Gin Cocktail is a refreshing and delicious Italian Craft Cocktail that is perfect for a hot summer day. Made with sweet Limoncello, gin, lime juice, and fresh thyme, this cocktail is easy enough to serve individually or prepared into a large batch.

Limoncello, a classic Italian liqueur, is made from the zest of particularly flavorful lemons that grow in the regions of Sorrento, Capri, and the Amalfi Coast in Italy. The addition of fresh thyme gives the cocktail a subtle herbal note that complements the sweetness of the Limoncello. This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy a sweet and tangy drink with a hint of herbaceousness.

11. The Corduroy

"The Corduroy" is a cozy and sophisticated Italian craft cocktail made with rye whiskey and Cardamaro, an Italian wine-based amaro.

The Cardamaro adds a subtle sweetness and gentle bitterness to the drink, while a couple of dashes of orange bitters round out the flavor. It's a simple but delicious cocktail that's perfect for when you want something comforting and sophisticated.

12. Bermuda Hundred Gin Cocktail

The Bermuda Hundred Gin Cocktail is a unique blend of Italian aperitif and tiki drink. This gin-based cocktail combines the bitterness of Campari with the smooth nuttiness of orgeat syrup, resulting in a tropical yet bitter flavor profile.

The addition of pineapple juice and lime gives the drink a refreshing twist, making it perfect for a summer evening. The use of Campari in a tiki drink is what sets this cocktail apart, making it a must-try for cocktail enthusiasts looking for a unique and refreshing Italian craft cocktail.

13. Negroni Fizz

The Negroni Fizz is a refreshing and fizzy twist on the classic Negroni cocktail. This Italian Craft Cocktail combines gin, Campari, and vermouth rosso with tonic water or sparkling wine to create a long and light drink that is perfect for any occasion.

The bitter and sweet flavors of the Negroni are balanced by the fizziness of the tonic water or sparkling wine, making it a delightful and interesting cocktail. The garnish of a thinly sliced piece of orange adds a touch of sophistication to the drink. If you're looking for a new way to enjoy a classic Italian cocktail, the Negroni Fizz is definitely worth a try.

14. Campari and Soda

Campari and Soda is a classic Italian cocktail that is perfect for a hot summer day. This two-ingredient cocktail is made with Campari, an Italian liqueur that has a bitter flavor with strong notes of citrus, herbs, and spices. The club soda adds a bubbly texture to the cocktail, making it a refreshing and light drink.

This cocktail is an aperitif, which means it is usually consumed before a meal to stimulate the appetite. Campari and Soda is a great choice for those who enjoy bitter and refreshing cocktails. Try this classic Italian cocktail and experience the perfect balance of bitterness and sweetness.

15. The Italian American

"The Italian American" is a unique Italian craft cocktail that combines American bourbon with two classic Italian bitter liqueurs, Amaro Montenegro and Campari. A splash of maple syrup and lemon juice create a smooth and mellow yet slightly bitter libation.

Amaro Montenegro liqueur, with its complex balance of flavors including floral notes, herbs, spice, and citrus, is the star ingredient in this cocktail. It tames and tempers the bourbon in a way that Campari alone does not. The result is a well-rounded and simply delicious drink that is sure to impress.

16. Aperol Sour

The Aperol Sour is a refreshing Italian Craft Cocktail that is perfect for summer sipping. Made with Aperol, a bittersweet Italian aperitif that is less aggressive than Campari, this cocktail is a beautiful orange-red color that is sure to catch your eye. The addition of gin adds complexity to the drink, while grapefruit and lavender bitters balance it out.

The foam on top of the cocktail adds a beautiful presentation to the drink. If you're looking for a vegan-friendly option, aquafaba can be used instead of egg white. Overall, the Aperol Sour is a must-try cocktail for anyone looking for a delicious and refreshing drink.

17. Limoncello Martini

The Limoncello Martini is a delightful Italian craft cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. Made with a combination of vodka, Limoncello, lemon juice, and lemonade, this cocktail is full of refreshing lemon flavor that is sure to please your taste buds.

It's easy to make and takes only a few minutes to prepare, making it a great choice for those who want a quick and delicious drink. Whether you're looking for a cocktail to enjoy on a warm summer day or a refreshing drink to sip on during the winter months, the Limoncello Martini is a must-try Italian craft cocktail.

18. Amaretto Sour

The Amaretto Sour is a classic Italian cocktail that has been given a modern twist by Jeffrey Morgenthaler. This cocktail is a perfect balance of sweet amaretto liqueur, sour citrus, and high proof bourbon that gives it a smooth and rich flavor. The addition of egg white creates a creamy, merengue-like froth that adds a unique texture to the drink.

The cocktail has a bad reputation for being too sweet and low in alcohol, but this improved version is perfect for both new and experienced drinkers. The Amaretto Sour is a must-try for those who love Italian craft cocktails and want to experience a modern twist on a classic drink.

19. Grapefruit Spritz Cocktail

The Grapefruit Spritz Cocktail is a refreshing and bubbly Italian Craft Cocktail that's perfect for brunch or a date night. It's a twist on the traditional Aperol Spritz, with tangy grapefruit juice, aperol, and Prosecco.

The cocktail is low in alcohol and easy to drink, with a herbal backbone and a hint of bitterness. The fragrant citrus aroma from the grapefruit zest adds a nice touch.

20. Elderflower Aperol Spritz

The Elderflower Aperol Spritz is a delightful twist on a classic Italian cocktail. With its subtle floral notes and balanced bitter and bubbly flavors, it's perfect for sipping on a warm, sunny day or when you want to transport yourself to the Amalfi Coast or the South of France.

The addition of elderflower liqueur gives it a unique and delicate flavor that pairs perfectly with champagne. This cocktail is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any brunch or cocktail party. Don't miss out on trying this refreshing and sophisticated drink that will transport you to the heart of Italy.

21. Classic Aperol Spritz

The Classic Aperol Spritz is a refreshing Italian cocktail made with only three ingredients – Aperol, prosecco, and club soda. Aperol is an Italian bitter aperitif liqueur that gives the drink its distinct flavor of bitter and sweet oranges, rhubarb, and different herbs and roots.

The cocktail is slightly bitter, yet sweet, with a flavor of oranges and herbs. It's perfect for warm weather and is often enjoyed as an aperitif before a meal. The Classic Aperol Spritz is a great cocktail to serve at parties or gatherings, and it's easy to make in large batches.

22. Holiday Elderflower Prosecco Cocktail

The Holiday Elderflower Prosecco Cocktail is a perfect addition to any festive occasion. This Italian Craft Cocktail is a delightful blend of Prosecco, vodka, and elderflower liquor, which gives it a light and floral taste. The sugared cranberries and sugar rim give it a festive look that is sure to impress your guests.

The sugared cranberries are soaked in a simple syrup and then rolled in sugar to give them a sweet and tart flavor that complements the cocktail perfectly. The sugar rim enhances the floral flavor of the elderflower liquor and adds a touch of elegance to the drink. Overall, the Holiday Elderflower Prosecco Cocktail is a must-try Italian Craft Cocktail that is perfect for any holiday gathering.

23. Bitter Giuseppe

If you're a fan of complex bitter flavors, then the Bitter Giuseppe is a must-try Italian craft cocktail. This low-alcohol cocktail gets its bitterness from the Italian amaro Cynar, a herbaceous artichoke-based liqueur that might not be for everyone. However, when combined with sweet vermouth, a little bit of lemon juice, and a few dashes of orange bitters, the bitterness is perfectly balanced.

Originating from The Violet Hour in Chicago, the Bitter Giuseppe is the type of cocktail you'll want to sip and savor. It's a great aperitif and a regular part of many cocktail rotations. So, if you're looking for a new and interesting cocktail to try, give the Bitter Giuseppe a chance.

24. Amarena Cherry

One of the best Italian Craft Cocktails that you should definitely try is the Amarena Cherry cocktail. This cocktail is made with Amarena cherries, which are small and dark with a tart and delicious flavor. They are usually bottled in syrup and used as a decoration on rich chocolate desserts.

The Amarena Cherry cocktail is a luxurious drink that is perfect for those who love sweet and fruity flavors. It is a perfect blend of sweet and sour flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. If you are looking for a cocktail that is both refreshing and delicious, then the Amarena Cherry cocktail is definitely worth trying.

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About the author.

Dana Frank is a bon vivant, lover of all things gastronomical. She has authored books and written numerous articles on the subject of food and drinks. Dana's passion for cuisine is rivaled only by her love of wine - she enjoys discussing both endlessly.

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12+ Italian Cocktails That Will Transport You to Italy

When you think of Italy, you probably think of delicious cuisine, award-winning wines, world class art, but what about cocktails? Some of your favorite cocktails – like the classic negroni or the Aperol Spritz – all hail from Il Belpaese. If you’re looking for some of the very best Italian cocktails, we’ve found a few of the very best that will transport you to the Amalfi Coast! 

Put away those glasses of Pinot Grigio – tonight’s celebration calls for mixing up some fun Italian cocktails!

Italian Cocktail Recipes

Italian Mule

The Italian Mule is nothing short of flavorful and refreshing – making it the perfect summertime cocktail! You can serve them in the traditional mule glass, but personally, since it’s already a twist on a “classic” cocktail, I prefer serving them up in cute high ball glasses! 

The fun twist, in this case, is the generous splash of limoncello. It’s a nice addition to the vodka and ginger beer you’d find in a traditional mule.

Instructions & inspiration here

Limoncello Sunrise

Personally, I’ve never been a huge fan of Tequila….but I do love the look of a Tequila Sunrise! It’s an impressive gradient of colors – not too much unlike the beautiful sunsets you might experience on your next trip to Italy. 

In the meantime, though, you can still enjoy a Limoncello Sunrise! Instead of Tequila, you’ll be swapping in Limoncello – which is still a beautiful compliment to the Grenadine and orange juice. You can even garnish with a slice of orange and a maraschino cherry before serving. 

Limoncello Spritz Cocktail

For those of you already intimately familiar with Italian drinks, you know how popular spritz cocktails are in southern Europe. Spritz cocktails have been all the rage since the 19th Century, but this Limoncello Spritz is a much more recent invention. 

For the most part, spritz cocktails follow a 3-2-1 ratio – three parts prosecco, two parts bittersweet liquor – like Limoncella, and one part soda water. It’s a super quick and easy cocktail to whip together, and the perfect addition to an evening of al fresco dining .

A Classic Bellini

The only cocktail in this roundup that predates the spritz is the Bellini – believed to have been invented during the 15th Century at Harry’s Bar in Venice. If you’ve never had one before, you’re in for quite the treat! 

A Classic Bellini calls for peach puree – preferably white peaches if they’re in season and available – topped with prosecco. It’s deliciously light and refreshing, and will make you feel oh so fancy while sipping it from a champagne flute.

Limoncello Prosecco Floats

Prosecco and sorbet? Say less! This Limoncello Prosecco Float – perhaps better known as a Sgroppino al Limone – is a fantastic boozy dessert drink. If you hadn’t already guessed, the recipe will include Prosecco and Limoncello, along with a scoop of lemon sorbet. 

If you like your desserts on the tart side, you’ll absolutely love this recipe! It’s a great after dinner drink recipe to break out on hot summer nights. 

Italian Sgroppino

Believe it or not, a classic Italian Sgroppino doesn’t actually call for Limoncello. Instead, it’s made with chilled vodka! You’ll still add in a scoop of lemon sorbet, but the vodka does help to balance things out a bit more, in my opinion. If you’re on the fence about which one you’ll like better, you could always try both! 

Frangelico Espresso Martini

You’ll need to play part barista and part bartender when you mix up this delicious concoction. The Frangelico Espresso Martini will take a little more finesse and equipment to whip together, but the final product is well worth the effort. 

Anyone can have a regular ‘ol espresso martini, but the Frangelico – a golden hazelnut flavored liqueur from Italy – brings this cocktail to a whole other level! If you don’t have any on hand, go get some! Or use Amaretto as an acceptable substitute if you must. 

Italian Campari Spritz

The Italian Campari Spritz is something of a contemporary classic. You’ll instantly recognize it for its distinctive red coloring, and be able to pick it out thanks to its unique, multilayered and bitter profile. Personally, I think it’s great all on its own (once you add in the sparkling wine, or course!) but there’s plenty of variations to be made to this spritz cocktail. 

One popular variation calls for campari and sweet vermouth!

>> Related: Explore the Best Prosecco Cocktails here

Tiramisu Martini

One of my favorite desserts is Tiramisu, so being able to enjoy it in cocktail form is a dream come true! The ingredients aren’t exactly Italian so to speak – Kahlua, Bailey’s Irish Cream, Vodka, – but holy cow, they taste just the classic Italian dessert. 

Most classic italian cocktails are known for being slightly bitter, and can be very citrus forward – think campari orange juice, limoncello, slices of orange as garnish. If that’s not exactly your speed and you’re looking for something a little sweet, the Tiramisu Martini is for you!

Raspberry Limoncello Prosecco

This sparking summertime cocktail is so delicious you’ll want to enjoy it year round! It’s a huge crowd pleaser among anyone who loves Prosecco, but you’ll love it for how easy it is to whip together. All you’ll need is four simple ingredients. 

Because it’s an Italian cocktail afterall, you’ll need some limoncello. You’ll also need some freshly squeezed lemon, mulled raspberries, and sparkling white wine to bring all those sweet and tangy flavors together. 

Amalfi Martini

If a trip to the Amalfi Coast isn’t in the budget this Summer, drown those sorrows in an Amalfi Martini. Nothing can really top the feeling for lounging along the stunning coastline of Italia, but this cocktail is pretty darn delicious.

This recipe calls for a near equal parts gin and limoncello, a splash of fresh lemon juice, and mint leaves for garnish. Technically a martini can be made with gin or vodka, but the gin helps to provide an earthy balance to the strong lemon flavors found in this cocktail. 

Italian Margarita

If tequila is your poison of choice, you need to check out this recipe for Italian Margaritas! You’ll need tequila and fresh lime juice, of course, along with some generous splashes of limoncello and soda water. If it’s in season, you’ll also add in some freshly squeezed blood orange – which gives the entire batch a stunning depth of color.

If it’s not the season to be dining al fresco and you can’t find any blood oranges at the supermarket, pomegranate juice also works! Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, or just making one for yourself, this recipe is sure to impress!

Common Italian Cocktail Questions

What are the most popular cocktails in Italy? While Italy is known for its incredible food and delectable wines, it’s also home to some classic cocktails (most you’ll find in this blog post!). Some of those classic cocktails include the Negroni,  Bellini, and Aperol Spritz.

What is an Italian cocktail?

While there’s many different Italian cocktails out there, many of them call for a simple 3-2-1 ratio – three parts prosecco, two parts bittersweet liquor (think Limoncello, Aperol, Campari), and one part soda water. 

Are cocktails popular in Italy?

While you might assume that Italy is just for wine, some of the world’s oldest and most popular cocktails actually hail from Venice! Hundreds of years after it was first invented, the classic Bellini is still a popular aperitif in Italy! 

How do you say cocktail in Italian?  

It’s the same in English and Italian, though the enunciation is slightly different. 

How to use Italian bitters in a cocktail?

A general rule of thumb when mixing Italian cocktails is to do three parts prosecco, two parts bitters, and one part soda water to top off.

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15 Best Italian Cocktails You Can Make at Home

Are you looking for the best Italian cocktails? What else could we speak about here at Italy Best than only the best things you should try? Well, below, you’re going to find some delicious Italian cocktails, such as one of my favorites, the Negroni Italian cocktail, as well as different Aperitivo drinks. On side of the delicious and refreshing drinks, we will also share with you the best Italian cocktail recipes, so if you want to make them at home, you can easily do it with our guidance.

15 Best Italian Cocktails

For those looking for the best Italian cocktail recipes, you’re in the right place! Below you’re going to find not 10 but actually 15 classic Italian cocktails and a guide to making each of them at home. Some of them are great for Aperitivo time, like an Italian bitter cocktail or a spritz.

Others are meant to be for after dinner. In each case, for a house party, for a grill party, or for a simple gathering with friends or family, you can always surprise your guests with delicious and refreshing Italian cocktails.

1. Aperol Spritz

Most people I’ve seen search for Italian cocktail recipes, usually search for the Aperol Spritz right away. Aperol Spritz is one of the best cocktails for summer, an Italian spritz cocktail we drink during Aperitivo time and it’s one of the most refreshing cocktails you could wish for especially during the warm months.

The Aperol Spritz is one of those easy Italian cocktails that you can make no matter which side of the world you’re living on. As bottled liquor, Aperol is available from the US to Asia in many countries, so you should be able to find it at local grocery stores.

The Aperol Spritz history and the Aperol Spritz recipe

Here’s a bit of history before the Aperol Spritz recipe ! The Aperol was made by Luigi and Silvio Barbieri in Padua in 1919. After WW2, during the 50s’ the Veneto region was at its peak of gastronomic delicacies and chic fashion . This was the time when the Aperol Spritz became popular around the society of Padua.

The term Spritz comes from German Spritzen, and this dates back to the Austro-Hungarian Empire in the 19th century, while they had the Veneto region (as well as others) under their control. In Hungary, the traditional spritz is still a thing, and people prefer drinking wine with soda water. This is called fröccs .

Austro-Hungarian soldiers put soda water in wine because that’s diluting the strong flavor. To the spritz, later on, Aperol was added to create our favorite Aperol Spritz. There are also other types of Spritz with Campari for example (that’s my favorite).

Now the Aperol Spritz recipe needs a larger glass than a wine glass . You should fill your glass with ice, and use 3 parts prosecco, 2 parts Aperol, and 1 part soda. Garnishing it with orange makes it the perfect Italian Aperol Spritz.

Within Italians, especially in the north, the Negroni is definitely one of the most popular cocktails. But what is the Negroni Italian cocktail? And why is it one of the perfect easy Italian cocktails you can do at home? First of all, the Negroni is made with three drinks, just like the Aperol Spritz, and just like many of the best Italian cocktails, you’ll see below.

This drink, along with its two brothers, the American and the Negroni Sbagliato have become really popular in the past few years, and especially in the area of Milan , it is a favored drink. The drink was first created after the demand of Camillo Negroni, who insisted that the Americano is not strong enough, and requested the bartender to make to replace the soda water with Gin.

Negroni is a strong Apreitivo drink, but it’s preferred to be consumed after dinner, when you have a night out, due to its level of alcohol. For a Negroni recipe at home, you’ll need Campari, a good quality Gin, and Sweet Vermouth. You’ll need a whiskey glass, or rocks glass, some ice, and an orange twist for garnishing. Then, you use from each of the three drinks the same quantity when you’re making a Negroni. Quick and simple.

3. Americano

When it comes to classic Italian cocktails, the previously mentioned Americano is one of the tops. The first time the Americano was served was in the 1860s’ in the bar of Gaspare Campari. At that time, this was the one called Milano-Torino, while the Milano- Torino is now a different cocktail you’ll see below too.

During the 1920s’ it became really popular among Americans, and there’s when it changed its name to Americano. This is a simple, delightful, and fizzy Aperitivo cocktail (aperitif cocktail) that’s really popular among Italians, especially up north. The Americano recipe was basically shared at the Negroni since there is only one ingredient that’s changing.

To make an Americano cocktail at home, you’ll need soda water, the same type of glass as for Negroni (whisky glass/rocks glass), ice, Sweet Vermouth, and Campari. The quantity of Campari and Vermouth should be the same. at these should make 85% of the drink. The rest is soda water. Then, garnish with an orange twist.

4. Sbagliato

If you ask what is the best Italian bitter cocktail, in my personal opinion it is the Negroni Sbagliato. This has been my favorite for years now. So much so that at the bars where we go more often for Aperitivo, they already know I always have a Sbagliato. Now, the Sbagliato is another brother of the Negroni, and the name means literally messed up.

Negroni Sbagliato was made first in 1972, and it was Mirko Stocchetto, the bartenders’ mess up. He was making a Negroni when he accidentally used sparkling wine to make the Negroni instead of the Gin. He soon realized what an amazing new taste he made, and the Sbagliato became popular slowly all around the country.

Since it is my favorite drink, I’ll also share why. The Negroni Sbagliato is not as bitter as its brothers, the Negroni and the American. It’s also not as strong as the simple Negroni, and it’s sweeter and lighter, thanks to the sparkling wine. To make a Negroni Sbagliato recipe you need again rocks glass, ice, the famous Italian liquor , Campari, Sweet Vermouth, and Prosecco. The quantity between the 3 drinks here too are the same. Then, you garnish it with an orange twist and it’s ready.

5. Bellini Italian Cocktail

Bellini cocktail was born in Venice combining our beloved Prosecco or Frizzante (Spumante) with peach. The story tells that a barman, Cipriani spent years finding the perfect way to add peach into a perfect drink, while then he created the Bellini with fresh peach juice.

The Bellini cocktail recipe is made with 1 part Frizzante/Spumante and 3 parts Peach puree. We’ve tested it with freshly made peach juice and the taste was almost the same, so that can be another option. Bellini is one of the most delicious and simple Italian cocktails for summer for everyone who loves sweet, fruity drinks.

6. Spiked Affogato

When it comes to the best Italian cocktails, Affogato is actually coming from the dessert called Affogato. This is a delicious coffee treat that now can be made in the form of a cocktail as well. Affogato combines the creaminess of vanilla ice cream with the strong flavor of Italian espresso.

If you love coffee and ice cream, I’m sure you’ll love the Affogato cocktail recipe too! To make this you need 30ml of Bayley’s liquor, 5 whole milk ice cubes, a scoop of vanilla ice cream , and 85ml of cold espresso. To be fair, the Affogato cocktail isn’t actually an Italian invention, so different recipes require different drinks. You can also add whiskey to it to make it stronger.

7. The Garibaldi

Another delicious Italian cocktail for summer is the Garibaldi. This is another Italian bitter cocktail with the base being the Campari again. The Garibaldi is also an aperitivo cocktail that got its name after the Italian military general, Giuseppe Garibaldi, the leader of the Italian troops at the unification of Italy in the 19th century.

There’s a more modern variation to the Garibaldi which uses velvet falernum and rum, but we’re now staying with the original Garibaldi cocktail. For the Garibaldi cocktail recipe, you need Tom Collins, rocks glass, and ice. Then, you should use 1 part Campari and 3 parts of freshly squeezed orange juice. Then, garnish it with a slice of orange.

8. Campari Spritz

The Campari Spritz has the same history as the Aperol Spritz when it comes to where the Spritz itself is coming from. The difference between the two types of Spritz is, that Campari is more bitter than Aperol, and it has a stronger taste too.

When it comes to a Campari Spritz recipe, the steps and ingredients are the same as for the Aperol Spritz. The only thing you’re changing is that you’re using Campari instead of Aperol. Garnishing as well goes differently. While in Aperol they put orange, in Campari you’ll see more often to have an olive in it. Also, the Campari Spritz is the most popular in Venice, and Venetians make it the best!

9. Hugo Spritz

Many of you might have tried already this great Italian spritz cocktail, and if not, I’m telling you now that the Hugo Spritz it’s one of the best Italian cocktails for summer. The Hugo Spritz is a simple, refreshing, and delicious drink made with elderflower.

It combines sparkling white wine with elderflower cordial and a dash of soda water. The Hugo Spritz recipe needs ice, half Prosecco, 1/4 elderflower, and 1/4 soda. You’ll have to garnish it with an orange wheel, fresh mint leaves, and a lime wedge. Your perfect Italian spritz cocktail for the summer!

10. Puccini

Puccini and Bellini are easy Italian cocktails that you’ll love if you’re hosting a fancy brunch, but it’s great for any occasion actually. The two cocktails are basically the same so I decided to add both of them in here. Both Puccini and Bellini can be made easily and they both require only 2 ingredients.

You’ll need a champagne glass for these cocktails and sparkling wine or Prosecco. The Puccini cocktail recipe should be made with 3 parts of Prosecco and 1 par Mandarin juice. It’s a delicious and refreshing one you’ll surely love.

11. Sgroppino al Limone

For anyone looking for the best Italian cocktails with lemon, this one will be a winner. Sgroppino al Limone is one of the most delicious Italian cocktails you could make at home if you like the icy citrus flavor. Now, the Sgroppino al Limone is a perfect combination of Prosecco, vodka, and lemon Sorbetto.

It’s a great drink to have after dinner, or after a Sunday lunch. For a Sgroppino al Limone recipe, you’ll need 2 parts of lemon Sorbetto, 1 part of Prosecco, and 1 part Vodka. Add all these in a blender and mix them together for a minute on the slowest setup. Garnish with a slice of lemon or lime, or even fresh mint leaves.

12. Milano-Torino cocktail

Another of the easy Italian cocktails which have Campari as a base is the Mi-To. As I mentioned at the Americano, that cocktail was called Milano-Torino before it gained its present name. Mi-To is similar to that, and for the reason of not mixing the two cocktails, the city names were shortened.

The Mi-To in taste and ingredients it’s basically like the Americano, it’s just missing the soda water. If you want to make a Mi-To recipe , you have to fill it with ice in a glass that’s used in the Spritz cocktails. Then, you have to use half Campari, and half sweet vermouth, mix it and garnish with orange slices.

13. Angelo Azzuro

If you’ve been looking for Italian cocktails with Limoncello, we’ve finally got one for you! Angelo Azzuro is one of those Italian cocktails that are made with Limoncello and we do love it! Unfortunately, we don’t know exactly the origin of Angelo Azzuro, but it’s said to be a take on the Blue Lagoon cocktail which became popular in the 50s’ and 60s’.

The name of the cocktail literally means blue angel, and it’s quite easy to make. The Angelo Azzuro recipe requires one rocks glass, ice, and 4 ingredients. You should use the same quantity of Cointreau, Limoncello, and Gin, 30 ml of each. This you should be topping with 10 ml of Vermouth. Shake it well, then pour it into the glass and garnish with lemon or lime.

14. Rossini

One of the best Italian cocktails made with fruits is definitely the Rossini, especially if you love strawberries. But who doesn’t love strawberries? Rossini is just as simple as the previously described Bellini and Puccini and it’s similar to the Puccini cocktail actually.

For the Rossini cocktail recipe , you need again champagne glass, and you should use 1 part of strawberry puree and 3 parts of Prosecco. While Bellini and Puccini have no garnish, Rossini should be garnished with a slice of fresh strawberries.

If you’re not satisfied with the previously mentioned Italian cocktails for summer, here’s another option for those who love bitter cocktails. To be fair, Pirlo is kind of like an Aperol or a Campari Spritz. More to the Campari Spritz actually, since it’s using basically the same ingredients.

The only difference is that the Campari spritz is coming from Venice, the Pirlo is coming from Brescia, which is in the Lombardy region. There’s also a tiny difference in the doses of the ingredients. As you could’ve seen already, most Italian cocktails are based on the same liquors.

They are really similar, yet different. For a Pirlo recipe, you’ll need a spritz-size glass filled with ice. do 2 parts of Campari, 1 part Prosecco, and a splash of soda water. Garnish with orange.

Wrapping up the 15 best Italian cocktails

Now, we didn’t give a full description of the method to make each of the Italian cocktail recipes, but the truth is that most of the classic Italian cocktails don’t need such a big description. You use the quantity indicated for the classic Italian cocktail recipes, then you mix them.

Or at those where we pointed out that you need to use a shaker, you do that. Usually speaking, Italian bitter cocktails like the Negroni Italian cocktail, or the Spritz don’t need any shaking, you just have to pour each ingredient directly into the glasses on the ice. Make sure you also check our lists of red and white Italian wines , as well as specific lists for specific types of wines, such as the Pinot Grigio .

Italian version of this article: Migliori cocktail da aperitivo

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Top 15 Italian Cocktails to Try

Italian cocktails blend tradition with flair, highlighting Italy’s rich flavors. I love sharing these recipes because they remind me of Italy’s colorful landscapes and zestful lifestyle. Using fresh herbs, vibrant citrus, and unique liqueurs, each drink tells a story of Italian culture and la dolce vita. Perfect for social gatherings or relaxing evenings, these cocktails offer a slice of Italy’s lively spirit. They’re a testament to Italy’s love for life and flavor, making every sip a celebration. Check out the roundup for a taste of Italy’s finest cocktails.

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• Classic Negroni

The classic Negroni, often hailed as the epitome of Italian mixology, embodies the essence of the best Italian cocktails. This timeless Italian cocktail seamlessly blends three iconic ingredients: gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth. With its vibrant crimson hue and harmonious medley of flavors, the Negroni captures the spirit of Italy, captivating cocktail enthusiasts worldwide. The Negroni is one of the best classic cocktails from Italy, garnished with an orange peel.

A popular Italian cocktail known as the Americano displays the skill and elegance of Italian mixology, earning its position among the greatest Italian drinks. The Americano is a classic Italian cocktail that captures the essence of Italy with its harmonious combination of Campari, sweet vermouth, club soda, and an orange twist for garnish. The drink’s allure lies in its delicate balance of bitter and sweet, creating a harmonious and invigorating experience.

• Aperol Spritz

Sipping an Aperol Spritz is an invitation to immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Italian culture, where the art of cocktail-making has been elevated to a form of expression. Aperol Spritz has become a symbol of Italy’s renowned aperitivo culture, where friends and family gather to unwind, socialize, and savor the moment. This classic Italian cocktail perfectly balances the bitter-sweet flavors, inviting you to indulge in its effervescence and aromatic charm. Don’t forget the orange slice garnish!

The Godfather is a delicious and interesting Italian drink that shows how different and creative Italian mixology can be. Crafted with a perfect balance of amaretto and Scotch whisky, the Godfather tantalizes the taste buds and captures the essence of the best Italian cocktails. Sipping the Godfather is an experience that transcends borders, whisking you away to an opulent Italian lounge or a stylish bar in the heart of Milan.

• Negroni Sbagliato

The Negroni Sbagliato, which translates to “wrong Negroni,” was born out of a fortunate mistake in a bustling Milanese bar. As legend has it, a busy bartender accidentally poured Prosecco instead of gin into a Negroni, giving birth to this beloved variation that has become a classic Italian cocktail in its own right. With its alluring combination of sweet vermouth, Campari, and Prosecco, this sparkling drink delights the senses and offers a refreshing take on the iconic Negroni.

• Italian Margarita

Italian mixologists are known for their ingenuity and invention, and the Italian Margarita is a delicious example of this. The Italian Margarita combines the strong flavor of tequila with the sweet, nutty taste of amaretto liquor in a way that is both interesting and surprising. When lime juice and fresh lemon are added, they give the drink a tangy and lemony brightness that goes well with the richness of the spirits. It can be enjoyed as a refreshing aperitif, stimulating the palate and preparing it for a delectable meal, or as a vibrant companion to a lively gathering.

• Italian Bird

The Italian Bird has a fascinating and complex flavor profile that stimulates the taste senses. The Italian Bird, which is made with aged rum, Campari, fino sherry, honey syrup, and a dash of salt, creates a symphony of tastes that enchant the palate. Sipping an Italian Bird is an invitation to embark on a sensory journey through the captivating world of Italian mixology.

• Limoncello Spritz

Indulge in the refreshing delight of a Limoncello Spritz, a sparkling Italian cocktail that tantalizes the taste buds with its vibrant and invigorating flavors. The bright and acidic aroma of fresh lemon juice is infused into the drink, reawakening the senses with its reviving acidity. With its delectable sweetness and powerful lemony taste, limoncello liqueur enhances the cocktail with exquisite depth and richness while sparkling wine lightens the drink. The Prosecco’s crispness perfectly complements the citrus elements, creating a well-balanced and satisfying taste experience.

• Italian Mule

Prepare your taste buds for a delightful journey with the Italian Mule, a cocktail that combines the warmth of amaretto liqueur, the tanginess of lime juice, and the invigorating fizz of ginger beer. The taste of the Italian Mule can be described as a harmonious balance between sweetness and tartness, creating a truly satisfying experience. The tantalizing taste of the Italian Mule is sure to captivate your senses and leave you craving another sip.

• Italian Sour

The Italian Sour is a drink that has just the right balance of bitter, sour, and mildly sweet flavors. The Aperol provides captivating depth and complexity, giving the Italian Sour a sophisticated edge, while the Sipsmith Gin adds a touch of elegance and a harmonious balance to the overall taste. The simple syrup adds a gentle sweetness that rounds out the taste, providing a delicate balance to the bitterness of the aperol and the acidity of the lemon juice. Its stimulating taste and velvety texture make it an ideal choice for those seeking a sophisticated and well-balanced drink.

• Amalfi Limoncello Martini

Prepare to be transported to the sun-soaked shores of the Amalfi Coast with the Amalfi Limoncello Martini. The gin lends a clean and stimulating quality to the cocktail, providing a solid foundation for the other ingredients, while limoncello adds a sunny and tropical touch to the martini, evoking the essence of the Amalfi Coast and its famous lemon groves. Mint leaves provide a herbaceous undertone to the Amalfi Limoncello Martini. Their aromatic essence uplifts the taste, adding a cool and rejuvenating touch to each sip. Its harmonious blend of sweet and tangy elements creates a revitalizing taste experience.

• Italian Paloma

The Italian Paloma is a beverage that provides drinkers with a flavor experience that is both vibrant and energizing. The Campari adds a captivating bitterness that dances on the palate, providing a sophisticated and complex taste profile, while the pink grapefruit juice contributes a tangy and citrusy brightness that invigorates the senses. The combination of fresh lime and lemon juice adds a delightful tartness, enhancing the overall citrus profile, and the simple syrup adds a subtle sweetness that rounds out the taste. With each sip, you will feel a delightful interplay of sweet, bitter, and tangy flavors that awaken the senses and leave you refreshed.

• Bitter Giuseppe

The Bitter Giuseppe is an Italian cocktail that showcases the rich and complex flavors of Cynar, sweet vermouth, lemon juice, orange bitters, and a touch of kosher salt. Its unique combination of flavors, ranging from the bittersweetness of Cynar to the refreshing tang of citrus, offers a taste experience that is both sophisticated and unforgettable. The Bitter Giuseppe, with its bold and bitter character, stands proudly among the best Italian cocktails.

• The Gentle Italian

Enjoy the elegant refinement of The Gentle Italian, a drink that perfectly captures the spirit of the best Italian cocktails. Crafted with the delightful combination of Lillet Blanc, Aperol, and Prosecco or another sparkling wine, this libation is a symphony of flavors that evokes sophistication and charm. Sip on The Gentle Italian and let its enchanting flavors transport you to the sun-drenched landscapes of Italy, where every sip is a celebration of refined indulgence.

• Appetizer à l’Italienne

The Appetizer à l’Italienne is a sophisticated and enticing Italian cocktail that embodies the artistry of Italian mixology. With a bold combination of sweet vermouth, fernet, simple syrup, and a hint of absinthe, this cocktail is a harmonious symphony of flavors that captivates the senses. Experience the enchantment that makes Italian drinks genuinely exceptional by submerging yourself in the opulence and sophistication of the Appetizer à l’Italienne.

15 Italian Cocktail Recipes

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Written by Paul Kushner

Founder and CEO of MyBartender . Graduated from Penn State University . He always had a deep interest in the restaurant and bar industry. His restaurant experience began in 1997 at the age of 14 as a bus boy. By the time he turned 17 he was serving tables, and by 19 he was bartending/bar managing 6-7 nights a week.

In 2012, after a decade and a half of learning all facets of the industry, Paul opened his first restaurant/bar . In 2015, a second location followed, the latter being featured on The Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.

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9 Italian Cocktails Worth Sipping

By Author Daryl and Mindi Hirsch

Discover nine Italian cocktails that will transport your taste buds to Italy.

Traveling to Italy has culinary rewards that include pizza and pasta as well as many more Italian foods and desserts . But, make no mistake – some of these edible rewards are best imbibed from a glass.

In Italy, people fill sidewalk cafes every day of the week. While munching on a range of snacks, from salumi to cheese, their hands clutch glasses of wine as well as flutes filled with sparkling Prosecco and a variety of classic Italian cocktails.

Fun Fact Italians don’t say cheers when they make toasts. They say salut e or cin cin instead.

Drinking Italian Cocktails In Italy

Cocktails are nothing new in Italy.

Italians have been sipping Aperol Spritzes and Negronis for more than a century. It just took some time for Italy’s sophisticated sippers to jump the pond in a serious way.

The popularity of those two particular Italian cocktails has skyrocketed in recent years to the point that it’s practically impossible to find a bar in the United States that doesn’t serve one or both. However, while we sip the occasional Negroni and Aperol Spritz , they’re not the only Italian cocktails we craft at home.

Drinking Italian Cocktails At Home

We drink a variety of Italian drinks at home when we enjoy aperitivo sessions filled with olives, cheese and assorted cured meats. It’s a custom we learned about in Bologna and one that we’re happy to recreate when we have company as well as when we don’t.

These are our favorites Italian cocktail recipes to craft at home:

9 Of The Best Italian Cocktails

Frequently Asked Questions

Italian cocktails are cocktails invented in Italy. They’re typically crafted with Italian liqueurs like Amaretto, Aperol and Campari.

The Negroni is the most popular Italian cocktail both in Italy and beyond with the Aperol Spritz a close second.

While it’s always a good time to drink Italian cocktails, the best time is during the Italian pre-dinner ritual known as aperitivo.

Italy is the best place to drink Italian cocktails but it’s also easy and fun to craft them at home.

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Thirsty for more cocktails.

About the Authors

Daryl and Mindi Hirsch

Saveur Magazine’s BEST TRAVEL BLOG award winners Daryl and Mindi Hirsch share their culinary travel experiences and recipes on the 2foodtrippers website. Since launching the site in 2012, they’ve traveled to over 40 countries in their quest to bring readers a unique taste of the world.

Disclosures

Article Updates We update our articles regularly. Some updates are major while others are minor link changes and spelling corrections. Let us know if you see anything that needs to be updated in this article. Funding We purchased the ingredients and tools used to craft these cocktails.

Original Publication Date: March 25, 2023

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Italian-style cocktails from the Dover – recipes

The Dover restaurant in Mayfair does its New York Italian roots proud with a mean drinks list: we present its martini, the eastside, a bicicletta, the godfather and a New York sour

A selection of our favourite Italian- and Italian-American-inspired cocktails. Many of our cocktails at the Dover are strained into frozen glasses. Put the glass(es) in the freezer for 30 minutes before serving, removing them just a minute or so before pouring your drink(s).

The Dover martini

Our take on a timeless classic, developed by our head of bar, Pietro Lucchese.

75ml vodka – we use Konik’s Tail 3 drops orange bitters 1 splash dry vermouth , to spray or rinse the glass – we use Cocchi Extra Dry 1 o range twist , pared off with a peeler or paring knife, to garnish

Pour the vodka and orange bitters into a mixing glass, add ice all the way up to the top and stir gradually, moving the ice in a continuous circular motion. Once the ice starts to melt, add fresh ice to fill the glass back up to the top. Taste as you go: the drink should taste very clean, and will take time to chill down and dilute to deliver the very pure taste of the spirit.

Swirl or spray half a shot of dry vermouth all around the inside of a frozen martini coupe, pour out any excess, then strain the martini into the glass and garnish with the orange twist.

Zesty and zippy, this is another Dover original formulated by Pietro Lucchese.

3 cucumber slices 3 mint leaves, plus 1 leaf extra to garnish, but only if you don’t have dehydrated lime 50ml gin – we use Bombay Sapphire 25ml fresh lime juice 20ml simple 1:1 sugar syrup, made with 20g caster sugar dissolved into 20ml water 1 slice dehydrated lime , to garnish (optional)

Muddle the cucumber slices in a cocktail shaker – this means giving them a light bash, which you could do with a pestle or the back of a spoon. Clap the mint leaves between your hands to release their oils, then add to the shaker, too.

Add all the remaining ingredients apart from the dehydrated lime (if using), then add ice to the top of the shaker. Shake and strain into a chilled glass, then strain again into a frozen coupe – the double strain will ensure the cocktail is smooth. Garnish with a slice of dried lime or a mint leaf, and serve

An early version of a spritz, a cocktail that is now popular not only in Italy, but all over the world.

50ml Campari 50ml dry Italian white wine – ideally pinot grigio 40ml soda water 1 orange slice , to garnish

Put all the ingredients in a wine glass, fill to the top with ice, stir and serve.

A 1970s classic, named after the film.

40ml scotch whisky (we use Johnnie Walker Black Label) 20ml amaretto

Add both spirits to a frozen rocks glass, add ice, stir and serve.

New York sour

20ml aquafaba (AKA vegan foamer) 50ml bourbon – we use Maker’s Mark 20ml fresh lemon juice 20ml simple sugar syrup Port wine , to float 3 drops Angostura bitters , to finish

Put the aquafaba in a large shaker tin, add the bourbon, lemon juice and sugar syrup, then dry shake (ie, without ice) to aerate the drink – the whipping creates tiny bubbles and ensures a smooth froth. Add ice to the shaker, shake again, then fine strain into a sour glass. Add a port wine float and finish with neat drops of the bitters on top.

Pietro Lucchese, The Dover, London W1

• Italian food and drink

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Top 10 Best Sambuca Cocktails: Easy Recipes To Make At Home

Although traditionally enjoyed alone , sambuca makes a wonderfully refreshing cocktail ingredient that can add a sweet and herbal twist to your drink.

In this guide, you will discover the top 10 best sambuca cocktails to make at home:

• Sambuca Caffè Corretto
• Flaming Sambuca A La Mosca
• Italian Tourist
• Sambuca Sazerac
• Sambuca Coffee Frappe
• Vesper Sambuca
• Fairy’s Flower Lemonade
• Terry’s Orange Coffee
• Flaming Lamborghini

Simply use the links above to jump ahead or scroll down to read them all!

Meletti Sambuca

What Are The Best Sambuca Cocktails?

More sambuca guides.

• Top 10 Best Sambuca Brands
• What Is Sambuca & How To Drink

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• Absinthe Guide
• Vermouth Guide
• Eau-de-Vie Guide

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Check Out The Best Sambuca Brands

1. Sambuca Caffè Corretto

Molinari Sambuca

Although you could argue that a caffè corretto isn’t strictly a cocktail, it’s a great way to enjoy sambuca and one of the traditional ways to serve it .

Simply add a 5 ml (⅙ Oz) of sambuca to an espresso cup and swirl it around so it leaves an even coating of spirit on the inside. Afterwards, just pour in the 45 ml (1.5 Oz) of coffee straight from the espresso machine.

No need to add sugar, the sambuca sweetens the espresso enough!

2. Flaming Sambuca A La Mosca

Another option that isn’t quite a cocktail but is an absolute must-try way of enjoying sambuca is A La Mosca. In our main sambuca guide , we explain how this means “with the fly” as well as its origins.

Simply add one to three coffee beans to a shot of sambuca and set it alight. Let the flame gently roast the coffee bean and caramelised it with the sambuca’s sugars. Afterwards, simply sip it an enjoy. If you catch a coffee bean, bite into it for some additional flavour.

Finally, we prefer using a jet flame lighter as it’s easier when lighting from an angle.

3. Italian Tourist

A fruity way of enjoying sambuca, the Italian Tourist is a colourful and zesty cocktail that we believe was created by the Antica Distillery . To make an Italian tourist, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 15 ml (0.5 Oz) Sambuca
• 45 ml (1.5 Oz) Passion Fruit Liqueur
• 20 ml (⅔ Oz) Lime Juice
• 100 ml (3.4 Oz) Grapfruit Juice

Simply shake all the ingredients with ice and then strain it into a highball or Collins glass pre-filled with crushed ice. You can then garnish it with half of a passion fruit.

4. Sambuca Sazerac

We can’t remember where we first heard of this fantastic twist on a classic absinthe cocktail . However, you simply replace the absinthe with a larger dose of sambuca, which creates a sweeter, more anise-forward cocktail. You’ll need the following ingredients:

• 60 ml (2 Oz) Bourbon Whiskey
• 30 ml (1 Oz) Sambuca
• 4 Dashes Angostura Bitters

Use a mixing glass with ice to combine the bourbon, sambuca, and bitters. Stir until cold and then strain into a tumbler over broken ice. You can then use lemon peel as garnish.

5. Sambuca Coffee Frappe

You’ve probably realised that there’s a theme here with all these coffee references! After all, it’s one of the most famous pairings with sambuca. Simply combine 30 ml (1 Oz) of sambuca with 15 ml (½ Oz) of coffee liqueur.

Shake it well with ice and then stream it into a cocktail glass or a small shot glass like the one above. You can use a little whipped cream to garnish or a lime peel instead.

6. Vesper Sambuca

An exhilarating twist on James Bond’s original cocktail , we’ll be replacing the dry white quinquina with sweet and herbal sambuca. You’ll need the following ingredients:

• 90 ml (3 Oz) London Dry Gin
• 30 ml (1 Oz) Vodka
• 15 ml (½ Oz) Sambuca

First, combine the gin, vodka, and sambuca and stir with ice. Afterwards, strain the ingredients into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with a twist of lemon.

7. Sambucata

Molinari Sambucata

Here’s a cocktail that we discovered on Molinari’s official site who has a variety of sambuca concoctions worth checking out. The Sambucata is somewhat similar to the Vesper but arguably more flavoursome thanks to the addition of bitters and essential oils.

Furthermore, the vodka is replaced with sambuca while Vermouth is used instead of quinquina.

You’ll need:

• 5 ml (⅙ Oz) Sambuca
• 40 ml (1.4 Oz) Gin
• 25 ml (0.8 Oz) White Vermouth
• 2 Drops Orange Bitters
• 1 Drop Essential Oil

Stir the ingredients in a chilled mixing glass and strain over ice. It looks particularly fantastic using a chilled Nick & Nora glass !

8. Fairy’s Flower Lemonade

Meletti Flower’s Fairy Sambuca Lemonade

An excellent summer refreshment, we spotted this wordy concoction on Meletti’s Instagram page! You will need:

• 120 ml (4 Oz) Mineral Water
• 1 Whole Lemon
• Mint Leaves

Thoroughly squeeze the lemon into a mixing glass, add the sambuca, and stir the ingredients. Pour into a Highball or Collins glass pre-filled with ice and top up with the water to taste. If it’s a little sour, you can add sugar but this is best done beforehand so it has fully dissolved.

Add the mint leaves and a twist of lemon for garnish.

9. Terry’s Orange Coffee

We named these after the UK’s favourite Christmas chocolate orange. However, it’s probably a well-known cocktail by a different name! This will be a last (but not least) coffee and sambuca cocktail. It’s a wonderfully gourmand experience for people who enjoy full flavours.

You’ll need the following ingredients:

• 90 ml (3 Oz) Hot Double Espresso
• 30 ml (1 Oz) Grand Marnier
• Whipped Cream

Add both the sambuca and Grand Marnier into a warm, large espresso cup and swirl it until it’s mixed and evenly coating the inside. Top it up with the coffee and gently stir it.

Finally, unlike the Frappe earlier, this demands whipped cream on top. Leave it on top or mix it in, you’ll love this richly-flavoured sambuca cocktail.

10. Flaming Lamborghini

A popular take on the classic Flaming Sambuca, the Lamborghini consists of the following ingredients in equal measures:

• Coffee Liqueur
• Blue Curacao
• Irish cream

We admit that it’s a weird one but it’s very popular in nightclubs. The sambuca and coffee liqueur are served together in a cocktail glass. Meanwhile, the Irish cream and blue curacao are in two shot glasses next to it.

The bartender sets the cocktail glass’ contents alight and you start drinking it through a straw. As the glass empties, you pour in the shot glasses at the same time.

Honestly, we’re not convinced and it just sounds like a messy recipe for a fire hazard! However, we’d love to hear your thoughts about this one in the comments!

Now that you have read about the best sambuca cocktails, why don’t you check out some of our related spirit guides?

• What Is Sambuca?
• Best Sambuca Brands
• What Is Jenever?
• Vermouth Spirit Guide
• Best Spirit & Liquor Glassware
• Alcoholic Spirit Homepage

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23 Most Popular Italian Drinks & Beverages You Must Try In Italy

Marco Santos

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Looking for the ultimate Italian drinks guide? Look no further!

When visiting Italy, it’s easy to get lost in the incredible history, food, culture, and landmarks of Italy. But, an often-overlooked element is the fantastic array of drinks in Italy that you simply have to try out!

In this definitive guide on drinks from Italy, we’ll outline the 23 most famous Italian drinks and beverages that you simply have to give a go when visiting Italy. Ranging from cocktails to spirits, to wines, to strong Italian liquor as well as non-alcoholic Italian drinks too, we’ve got you covered in this Italy drinks guide!

So, Let’s raise our glasses, and as the Italians say, ‘Cin Cin’!

Disclaimer: This post contains links to services or products that I trust and recommend and from which I may earn commissions. Read our privacy policy for more.

Pssst…Have you packed all your essentials? Make sure to read our European packing list post to ensure you’ve ticked all the packing necessities off your list!

Italian Cocktails

Aperol spritz.

By Jess from Jagsetter

The Aperol Spritz is a refreshing Italian cocktail made with Prosecco, Aperol, soda water, and ice. Sometimes, a slice of orange is added for a little extra zest. The Aperol spritz is known as a pre-dinner drink in Italy and is often served with light snacks such as popcorn. While it’s traditionally paired with appetizers, it’s become so popular that it’s acceptable to drink it at any time of day.

The nascent origins of the drink are traced to the Veneto region of Northern Italy in the 1800s—when the concept of the Spritz began. Italian’s wanted to make their wine less potent—so they spritzed their wines with water. In time, the recipe evolved as Italian’s tested different ingredients to make it more palatable. By the 1900s, it became the Aperol Spritz that Italian’s know and love today. 

Now, the drink is an Italian staple and can be ordered in almost every bar & restaurant in the country. The drinks’ popularity has evolved so much that it’s available on a global scale. I’m a huge Aperol Spritz fan and first tried it in Italy, but seek it out everywhere I go now and even try to make them at home.

By Jessie Moore of Pocket Wanderings

A refreshing Bellini is the perfect Italian cocktail for a warm summer day. The Bellini was invented between the 1930s and 1940s by Giuseppe – the chef who also invented the raw beef dish of carpaccio. It was inspired by Venetian painter Giovanni Bellini and was first created in the infamous Harry’s Bar of Venice. So when you are next visiting Venice , be sure to stop by to enjoy a classic Bellini cocktail where it all started. You won’t be able to snap a picture though, as photos are not allowed in order to maintain the privacy of the bar’s discerning visitors.

A sweet and fruity cocktail, it is made from just two ingredients: peach purée and Prosecco, an Italian sparkling wine. Due to its simplicity, the quality of the Bellini relies heavily on the quality of the ingredients. During the summer months, fresh ripe peaches should be used for the purée. Out of season, high-quality frozen peach purée will do the trick. Finally, a good dry Prosecco is best used. For a little extra flavour and a dash of rich pink, you can also add a little dash of raspberry purée.

By Veronika from Travel Geekery  

If you’ve recently paid a visit to one of the European ski resorts, you have surely come across Bombardino. The typical Italian winter cocktail originated in northern Lombardia and has become widespread on the slopes of Austria, France or even the Czech Republic.

Bombardino is primarily warm eggnog topped off with whipped cream and sprinkled with cinnamon. There’s usually some extra alcohol added – typically a brandy.

It’s best enjoyed on a slope in the Italian Alps, especially after a few rides got your blood pumping.

You can easily make Bombardino at home if you’re stocked up on eggnog, but be careful with the heating process – eggnog contains raw eggs and you can imagine what a mess it would create if you boiled it.

There’s a legend connected to the origin of Bombardino. A young Genovese man moved to the Italian Alps and eventually opened a ski lodge. When one day a group of skiers unexpectedly showed up from a blizzard, he quickly put together a warm drink from ingredients he had at hand. One of the customers exclaimed “what a bomb” that drink was – and from that, the name Bombardino was born. The drink quickly grew in popularity and the rest is history.

Campari & Soda

By Nicole from Go Far Grow Close

Campari is a bright red bitter alcohol that was invented in 1860 by Gaspare Campari in Novara, Italy. It was originally coloured with carmine dye which is derived from crushed cochineal insects and this gave the drink its distinctive red colour. Carmine dye is no longer used today, although Campari only stopped using it in 2006 after pressure from various groups.

No one knows the exact ingredients of Campari. They are a closely held secret. However, it is marked by underlying flavours of cherry, cascarilla, clove, rhubarb, cinnamon and orange peel.

Campari and bubbly soda water is widely viewed as a wonderful aperitif, a drink served before a meal or at cocktail hour. Its bitter flavour and clean finish are said to stimulate the appetite.

Today, not only is Campari and soda one of the most recognized cocktails in the world , but Campari has also become the key ingredient in another famous Italian drink – the negroni. The negroni was Invented in 1919 by Count Negroni – who asked to add a touch of gin rather than soda to his drink.  

Hugo Spritz

By Lori from Italy Foodies 

When you find yourself parched from sampling the amazing food in northern Italy and looking for a refreshing Spritz alternative, try a light and delicious Hugo Spritz. This traditional speciality drink is low in alcohol with just the right touch of floral sweetness.

Originally, the syrupy base of a Hugo Spritz was made from lemon balm (a herb in the mint family) but the essence of a local flower replaced it. Today, the drink is crafted with elderflower liqueur made from the white blossoms of the elderberry tree (St. Germain is the most famous brand used). Locally made Prosecco is then added, whose grapes are grown extensively throughout the Veneto. Add in a bit of Seltzer or club soda to top off the drink to help maintain the frizzante nature of the prosecco, and you have quite an Italian refreshment. The standard garnish is a sprig of fresh mint leaves.

Considered an aperitivo enjoyed before a meal, the Hugo Spritz is served as an alternative to the popular orange liqueur-based Aperol Spritz, aka Spritz Veneziano, a drink found throughout Italy.

If you enjoy a good spritz cocktail, try Hugo Spritz the next time you visit Italy.

By Marco from Travel-Boo

Next up on our list of top Italian alcoholic drinks is one that’s not for the fainthearted. The much-loved Negroni cocktail is almost purely alcoholic in nature. It was said to have originated back in 1919 at the Caffe Casoni in Florence . Here, Count Camillo Negroni reportedly asked the bartender to change up his favourite cocktail, the Forsco Scarselli, by substituting soda water with gin.

The popular Negroni is usually made by combining one part vermouth (Rosso), one part gin and part Campari and then topped off with an orange peel as garnish. 

Having seen a surge in popularity, many companies have even gone as far as producing ready-to-drink versions of this popular Italian drink, such as the Antico Negroni 1919 version.  

Popular Italian Wines

By Annabel from Smudged Postcard

The red wine Barolo is produced in the northern Italian region of Piedmont. It is made from the grape variety Nebbiolo which is grown across the Langhe wine area south of Turin . However, the grapes which go into bottles of Barolo are only grown in a small area on the hillsides around the village of the same name.

Barolo goes well with truffles – another feature of Piedmont cuisine. The wine also works really well with red meat and strong cheeses.

The tiny village of Barolo is well worth visiting – there you’ll find a small corkscrew museum and several restaurants and wine bars and it’s a great spot to enjoy lunch.

Barolo is a rich, fruity red wine, aged for a minimum of three years. The wine doesn’t come cheap but it’s worth every penny. If your budget won’t stretch to a bottle of Barolo, another good quality Nebbiolo wine from Piedmont which is well worth trying is Barbaresco.

Brunello di Montalcino

By Isabelle from Cultured Voyages

Brunello di Montalcino is a very special wine. Produced in the area that surrounds the town of Montalcino in Tuscany, a stop to try some of this very delicious Italian drink is a must when in the region on a Tuscan road trip . Falling more on the exclusive, expensive side of the pricing scale, this fantastic red wine justifies its price tag with a product that many wine critics cite as being Italy’s best wine. 

Made from 100% Sangiovese grapes, this wine boasts Italy’s highest DOGC classification. DOGC stands for “Denomination of Controlled and Guaranteed Origin”, which is a government classification that indicates Italian wine of the highest standards. 

In terms of taste, Brunello di Montalcino is a bold, full-bodied wine. A younger Brunello is a little more tart, with earthy, fruity notes. When given time to age, these tart notes become sweeter and earthy tones are replaced with smoother, more leathery ones. 

A Brunello with a ‘Normale’ classification will have been aged for 5 years, while a ‘Riserva’ will have been aged for 6. A Brunello di Montalcino will really come into its own, however, after 10 years of ageing – so have a little patience before uncorking that bottle! 

Cannonau Wine

By Claudia From Strictly Sardinia

Unknown to most outside of Italy, Sardinian wines are actually excellent. 

Sardinian Cannonau wine – which you may know as Grenache – is one of the endemic grapes of Sardinia (not to mention the most planted one), and one of its most popular red wines – to the point that it is said that about a fifth of the bottles of wine in Sardinia is of Cannonau.

The best Cannonau production is said to be in eastern and southern Sardinia, in the provinces of Cagliari and in Ogliastra, and Nuoro. 

This is a rich, full-bodied wine, with spicy hints, low acidity and high in alcohol. Though most wineries have their own Cannonau wine, there are a few you simply can’t miss if you ever visit the island. Pala, a winery in the small village of Serdiana, makes its own excellent one; as well as Contini. 

Yet, the best Cannonau in the island is the Nepente di Oliena, known for being one of Gabriele d’Annunzio (Italian poet, journalist and soldier during WWI) favourite wines.

Chianti wine

By Roxanne from Faraway Worlds

If you’ve ever enjoyed a dry Italian red wine, it’s probably Chianti. Produced in the largest wine-producing region in Italy, Chianti is the most famous wine in Tuscany. Chianti is made primarily from the Sangiovese grapes originally grown in the area. Only wine made in the Chianti region and containing at least 70% Sangiovese grapes is allowed to be called Chianti.

Chianti is rated according to the percentage of Sangiovese grapes used and how long the wine has aged for. The label on the wine bottle will indicate how the wine has been rated. The DOC or DOCG labels in particular guarantee that the wine has been made in the traditional way using the original grapes in Chianti. In short, it’s a guarantee of quality, although there are many excellent (and often more expensive) wines without those labels.

Historically, Chianti came in a squat bottle contained in a straw basket called a fiasco. Now, however, that’s less common, with most Chianti producers using standard wine bottles. Regardless of the bottle, enjoying a long lunch while sipping a glass of Chianti is the perfect way to spend an afternoon in Tuscany , all while sampling one of the best Italian wines!

By Jade from The Migrant Yogi

Lambrusco is an effervescent (frizzante) red wine that is primarily produced in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy.  It is also the name of the grape varietal that is used in production.  The Lambrusco grape has a long history of being cultivated for wine, dating as far back as the Etruscans.  It was renowned for its high yield and versatility.

The wine is quite popular and comes in a variety of styles, varying from very dry (secco) to sweet (dolce).  While the grape itself is not naturally sweet, the level of sweetness is adjusted by varying the amount of fermentation or adding sweet grape must.

The effervescent quality of Lambrusco comes from a second fermentation that takes place in a pressurized tank – in the style of Charmat.  

While many people visiting Italy will opt for more traditional wine tastings while in the Bel Paese, why not schedule a Lambrusco tasting for a truly unique experience to have in Italy ?  Try the varying degrees of sweetness and effervescence and see what you like best!  Lambrusco makes for the perfect addition to spring picnic and an assortment of salumi!  

Negretto Wine

By Allison from Eternal Arrival 

For a little-known but absolutely delicious and good Italian wine that you simply have to try during your stay in Italy, keep an eye out for the elusive but tasty Negretto wine. This indigenous grape varietal was rescued from near-extinction by passionate winemakers in the Emilia-Romagna region who believed in its power to express terroir and create powerful, delicate wines. 

Whereas many winemakers shifted to more internationally-recognized varietals — Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Pinot Grigio, etc. — a handful of dedicated growers are dedicated to preserving the rich oenological history of Italy’s 2,000+ native wine grapes. 

Many of those wines are rather a niche and hard to find (only 400 of those grape varietals are produced in any significant volume), but if you are visiting Bologna, Italy you’ll likely be able to find some winemakers still vinifying Negretto in small quantities. 

If you can find a Negretto made by the winemaker Erioli, pounce on it! His wines are delicate, with chocolate, blackberry, and olive notes all with a lovely, light structure. He also makes a delicious white wine from Alionzo grapes (pictured) that is another rare varietal.

Primitivo wine from Puglia

By Anda Travel For A While

Each region in Italy produces local wines, but the wines from southern Italy have come to attention more recently. 

The Primitivo grape from the Apulia region in southern Italy takes its name from its early-ripening, it isn’t ‘primitive’ as it might sound.

Primitivo grapes make a strong-bodied wine. The wines are a dark ruby shade, with a fruity and spicy flavour. They also have a high alcohol content and a lot of tannins. Another advantage is the price, as they are still pretty inexpensive.

The wine goes well with steaks or lamb dishes. It isn’t uncommon to have a glass of Primitivo before dinner with a plate of cured meats or local cheeses. Having a glass of wine during la passeggiata is one of the best things to do in Lecce and the rest of the Salento area. 

Find a good table outside around sunset, when the locals start their evening stroll before dinner. Order a glass of local Primitivo and a plate of local specialities to share, and prepare for the Italian show of the world walking by. It’s a great start to your evening.

By Enzo from Inguaribile Viaggiatore

Prosecco is a typical Italian white wine. It is mainly produced with the Charmat method and has an effervescence that is diversified into two types: still prosecco and sparkling prosecco.

The name “prosecco” indicates a DOC alcoholic drink originating in the area between Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia. Among all, some prosecco is particularly renowned and have achieved the DOCG quality mark (DOC Garantita);  the best known undoubtedly being the Prosecco di Conegliano-Valdobbiadene.

Prosecco is made from white grapes belonging to the vine of the same name (Prosecco precisely), now better defined as Glera;  this denomination was introduced in 2009, so as not to confuse the grape variety and the wine, while better protecting the DOCG brand of Prosecco di Conegliano-Valdobbiadene.

In reality, those of Glera MUST make up at least 85% of the total grapes, while the remaining 15% can be made up of chardonnay, pinot grigio, verdiso, bianchetta trevigiana and other strictly regulated grapes.

The Prosecco grape is native to the Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia;  it grows luxuriantly in the provinces of Treviso, Belluno, Venice, Padua and Vicenza.

Prosecco (Glera) has been cultivated for over 200 years and was mentioned (in 1772) in the eighth volume of the “Giornale d’Italia” by the famous academic journalist Francesco Maria Malvolti.

Since 2019 the hills of Prosecco have also been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

By Helga from ShegoWandering

The Vin Brulé is present around Italy, as also in Europe on the alternative name of “mulled wine”. Each territory has its own story and its own recipe for this drink. The Vin Brulé originates from Faenza, where every January there’s a tradition called the “Nott del Biso”, where they burn a large puppet in the city centre, while locals are warming themselves up with the tasty hot wine drink. In places such as the town of Piacenza , locals also typically enjoy a glass, or two, of Vin Brulé on Christmas Eve, whist celebrating with their families.

The original recipe is made of 1 bottle of Sangiovanese red wine (but another type of Italian red wine is great too), 1 cinnamon stick, 200g sugar, 4-5 cloves, 1 orange zest and 1 lemon zest. 

Then, how to prepare it? Pour the wine in a pot, prepare the orange and lemon zest, and add to it along with the sugar and the other ingredients. Mix it all well, and on low heat cook it for a few minutes. Turn off the heat before it starts boiling! You don’t need Christmas or any feast to enjoy a delicious Vin Brulé. On a stay-at-home cozy night, it’s just perfect to warm you up!

Italian Liqueurs

Amaretto – traditional italian drinks.

By Dave Chant from www.davechant.com

Amaretto is a sweet Italian liqueur originating in North Italy in Saronno (fairly near Milan ). Derived from the Italian for bitter (amaro), this drink is generally known as only a little bitter. 

Made popular the world over by Disaronno in the sixties, the drink is actually much older. Both Disaronno and the Lazaronni family lay claim to being the founders of Amaretto. The latter made amaretto cookies in the 19th century and decided they should make an accompanying drink to these biscotti.

However, the more romantic story is that the birth of Amaretto lay in 1525. One of Leonardo da Vinci’s students (Bernardino Luini) painted a widowed innkeeper. Out of gratitude, she gave him back a brandy steeped in Apricot kernels. Amaretto, thus, was born.

It’s contemporarily known as an almond infused liqueur, but most recipes are actually made with apricot kernels or a mixture – for instance, Disaronno contains just apricots. Sometimes, it is even made with peach pips.

It’s also a very versatile drink. Mixed in the west with Coca-Cola, giving it almost a Cherry Cola-Esque taste, and also in Italy with coffee and many desserts such as Tiramisu. It also mixes well with whisky and vodka to make creamy cocktails. Amaretto is even used in savoury dishes to make sauces for vegetables and fish and even added to chicken.

By Linda from La Dolce Fit Vita

I think everyone has at some point daydreamed of that glamorous Italian dolce vita moment. You know, the one where you’re cruising down a Vespa on the Amalfi Coast, with a gelato in one hand and sunglasses that are so vintage chic you could just die? Well, what if I told you could live that exact Italian fantasy in just a little drop of lemon heaven?

Limoncello is exactly that- summer and instant vitamin sea in a drink. It doesn’t come as a surprise in fact, that the drink originated right on the Amalfi Coast, on the island of Capri to be exact. 

The creator, as Italian tradition always goes, was a little old ‘nonna’ or grandmother. The lemons in her garden were so exquisite it was a waste to not make something grand out of them. In time, the recipe became so popular it spread across the globe through mass distribution. To this day, however, the home-made version remains Italy’s preference- a true Italian Must-Try when travelling through the country.

The liqueur is quite strong and has an alcohol content ranging between 20 and 32 p. The strength in alcohol however is offset by the sweetness of the Sorrentine lemons (the only lemons that should be used according to the original recipe). After letting the lemon peels soak in pure alcohol for about a week, the mixture is combined to a sugar syrup and then left to sit for another month.

According to how much sweetness or acidity you are looking for, you can adjust how long to soak the alcohol with the peels. The crucial thing is that the drink is served chilled. You can enjoy a limoncello as a nice aperitif or more commonly as the Italians do, as an after-dinner digestif.

By Michele A Taste For Travel

One of the most popular drinks in southern Italy is Mirto, a bittersweet liqueur enjoyed as an after-dinner digestivo. It’s an artisanal drink made by infusing aguardiente (clear odourless grain alcohol) with the macerated berries of the Myrtus Communis plant, an evergreen shrub that grows wild throughout the Meditteranean. 

The plant itself was considered sacred in Greek-Roman times and symbolized peace so its glossy leaves were (and still are) often used in wedding wreaths and garlands. While many parts of the plant were considered to have antiseptic properties and were key ingredients within medicinal tonics throughout antiquity, today the most traditional Mirto liqueur is made of the plant’s purple berries. 

This revered regional Italian liqueur is usually served after a multi-course dinner to guests or diners in restaurants in Sardinia as well as the Salento region of southern Puglia . The slightly bitter taste of Italian digestivos is believed to aid the body in its digestion. 

But unlike Italian Amari (which is brandy infused with herbs and bitter botanicals) Mirto Rosso is a much sweeter digestivo. Its lovely royal purple hue makes it especially appealing. A welcome finish extended to valued guests, it’s meant to be sipped and savoured while relaxing after a hearty Sardinian meal. 

By Larch from The Silver Nomad

Sambuca was invented in 1851 in Civitavecchia on the west coast of Italy, just below Rome, by Luigi Manzi. In 1851, he wrote a letter mentioning that he had started a small business. The small business produced “an aniseed which is a very good digestive after a meal” which is now a popular worldwide after-dinner liqueur.

The origins of the name are hazy. It is said that the Manzi named it Sambuca after the “Sambuchelli”, watermen who went to the fields with water and anise to quench the peasant’s thirst in his native Ischia . Another school of thought is it could be from “Sambuco” the Italian for elderberry, though they are not actually one of the ingredients.

Sambuca is a colourless liqueur with a very high alcohol content – 38-42% – with a strong aniseed taste. The drink is often enjoyed “con la Mosca” which literally means “with fly” but in reality means that 3 coffee beans are floated on top and chewed while drinking. The other traditional way Sambuca is served is to flambé the spirit before drinking it. Saluti!

Italian Spirits

By Daniel from Layer Culture

Fernet is an Italian spirit which was made in Milan in 1845, originally known for its medicinal properties, it soon became popular with the masses and got popularized as a recreational drink which was promoted by the company Fratelli Branca. 

This led to the spirit being the star of many posters and calendars before eventually getting exported to South America and is one of the most significant drinks in the culture of Argentina today. The brand even built a distillery there, it was simply that popular! 

There are various brands of Fernet that are not Fernet Branca. However, it is good to know that Fratelli Branca’s version of the spirit is still formulated according to its original recipe which has been handed down the generations. It consists of 27 herbs as well as other ingredients and the exact formula is still a closely guarded ’trade secret’, and today is known as one of the most famous Italian bitters to be exported from Italy. 

You can still find Fernet in many bars in Italy but beware it is not for the faint-hearted. Fernet is such an unusual spirit that it is one every visitor must try, and since it was originally formulated in Italy, you may as well see what all the hype is about. 

Italian Beers

Italian beer brands.

Calling all beer lovers! Whilst Italy may be renowned for its vast array of Italian cocktails, wines, and liqueurs, you shouldn’t discount Italian beers!

With beer being amongst the world’s most popular drinks, it’s no surprise that you’ll find a good selection of beers when visiting Italy. Although more traditionally considered a top wine producer, Italy has seen hundreds of micro and artisanal breweries pop up across the country in recent years. Seeing the production of “Birra” (Beer in Italian) rise year on year.

Of course, you may already be familiar with may well-known Italian beer brands such as Peroni, Moretti or even Nastro Azzurro, many of these have sadly be sold off to global beer conglomerates. Thankfully, Italy’s craft-beer scene is well and truly alive, placing overall third at the 2018 European Beer Star awards and winning an impressive 19 medals! 

Next time you visit Italy, be sure to taste some of the best locally produced artisanal beers in Italy such as the Baladin beers, Birra del Borgo or Birrifico Italiano to name but a few!

Non-Alcoholic Italian Drinks

By Katy from Untold Travel 

Do you love chocolate and coffee? Then head to the northern Italian city of Turin for il Bicerin, a truly decadent treat. 

Bicerin is a layered drink made from espresso coffee, drinking chocolate and freshly whipped cream served in a stemmed glass so you can see the beautiful layers formed by careful preparation. 

This drink first appeared in the 18th century at the historic Caffè Al Bicerin that continues to serve the people of Turin their speciality to this day. Now, many cafes across the city serve Bicerin throughout the year but in winter it’s the perfect way to warm up.

Celebrated by literary greats Alexandre Dumas and Umberto Eco, Bicerin is more than a drink. Rather, it is celebrated as a ritual. When in Turin, seek out one of the famous historic cafes and sit at a marble-topped table, stir your Bicerin and enjoy slowly as you take in the atmosphere. 

For surroundings to match the decadence of your beverage, try Baratti & Milano where chandeliers drip from the ceiling and your companions are bronze statues.

By Sasha Naslin from The Alternative Travel Guide

When I am in Italy, I am an omnivore and an “omni-drinker”: everything there is just so good. But my favourite of all times is the quintessential Italian Cappuccino. 

This iconic drink was invented by the Capuchin monks (“Frati Cappuccini” in Italian) in a monastery north of Rome in the 17th century. ⠀

In addition to the similar name of the monk order itself, their cassock was brown, a shade that we will now call “Cappuccino”. The cassock also had a long pointed hood – “il cappuccio”, that also sounds similar to a Cappuccino. 

In the Middle Ages, black coffee was considered the devil’s drink because of its properties: the drink invigorated the spirit and created addiction. It is believed that this is why the monks began to add to the “sinful black coffee” white “pure” milk! Milk softened the taste of coffee, diluted the colour, and made the coffee less strong. 

A little later, the mechanic Giuseppe, who lived near the monastery, improved the Cappuccino preparation technology. He invented the prototype of the Cappuccinatore. 

The machine included two compartments: one heated water to steam, and the second contained frothed milk. It was a simple mechanism with a pair of tubes. To this day, the coffee machines that make cappuccino use the same technology. 

By the way, if you don’t want to look like a dumb tourist, never order a cappuccino in the afternoon. In Italy, cappuccino is considered something to have at breakfast or during the morning only!

Welcome to Travel-Boo. My blog is where I share travel tips, suggestions, and stories focused on European travel adventures!

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Ferrari is an interesting contemporary cocktail that combines equal parts Campari and Fernet Branca—the bitter Italian amaro. Ferrari is usually taken as a shot, though some argue it makes a decent sipping drink. The ingredients are assembled in a shot glass, but they can be first mixed with ice and then strained into a glass. No one knows when Ferrari first appeared or what is the origin of its name, but it is assumed it first appeared in NYC bars. 

Ferrari is an interesting contemporary cocktail that combines equal parts Campari and Fernet Branca—the bitter Italian amaro. Ferrari is usually taken as a shot, though some argue it makes a decent sipping drink. The ingredients are assembled in a shot glass, but they can be first mixed with ice and then strained into a glass.

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15 Cocktails Named After the World’s Great Cities (and Long Island)

words: Nick Hines

What’s in a city’s name? Just saying “New York” or “Paris” or “London” can conjure images of a metropolitan lifestyle and grand architecture. But for some of the most popular and most-loved cities, the name stands for something more: a cocktail.

We dug through cocktail recipes to find the best-tasting cocktails named after cities. New York has multiple cocktails, while others just have one iconic cocktail. Travel around the world in liquid form with these 15 drinks named after cities.

Singapore Sling

The eponymous Singapore Sling dates back to 1915 at the Long Bar in the Raffles Hotel. Bartender Ngiam Tong Boon whipped up a gin , cherry heering, Benedictine, lime, and bitters cocktail, and then topped it off with soda. Today the drink is popular around the world, and many know it as the drink that kicked off the journey in “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas.”

Long Island Iced Tea

Yes, we know Long Island isn’t a city. But it’s a drink so renowned that it’d be a shame not to include it. The Long Island Iced Tea may look like iced tea, but it’s an intoxicating mix of tequila , vodka , light rum , triple sec , gin, and just a tiny splash of cola.

The Parisian

When you think Paris and France, your mind likely drifts to fine wine. Instead, you should be thinking of the Parisian, a vermouth -forward cocktail with gin and creme de cassis.

New York City has a whole line up of cocktails named after the boroughs. The Manhattan is probably the most famous of those — borough-wise and cocktail-wise. It’s a mix of rye whiskey , sweet vermouth, and bitters and then garnished with a cherry.

The northernmost borough in New York City borrows a lot from the perfect martini. It’s a mix of gin, sweet vermouth, dry vermouth, and then, to make The Bronx its own, a splash of orange juice.

The Brooklyn

The Brooklyn was a cocktail long before Brooklyn became known for hipster bars and craft cocktails. Like the Manhattan, it’s a whiskey-based cocktail. The Brooklyn is made with whiskey, dry vermouth, maraschino liqueur, Angostura bitters, and an orange peel garnish in a martini glass.

The country’s most diverse neighborhood has a cocktail very similar in composition to The Bronx. It’s a perfect martini (gin, sweet vermouth, and dry vermouth), but instead of orange juice, it has a splash of pineapple juice. When shaken, the pineapple juice creates a foam head almost like an egg white.

Chicago Fizz

When you hear of a rum and port cocktail, you probably don’t think “Chicago.” But that’s exactly what the Chicago Fizz is. It’s made with white rum, tawny port, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white.

Moscow Mule

Despite the name, the Moscow Mule is not a Russian export. It was invented in the 1950s by the owner of a then-struggling Smirnoff. Today, it’s one of the most well-known cocktails around.

Boston Rum Punch

Boston was the home of the founding fathers, and it’s not hard to imagine them having a Boston Rum Punch or two back in the day. It’s a simple cocktail composed of rum, lemonade, and little bit of nutmeg and lemon peel to garnish.

Milano-Torino

The Milano-Torino (or Mi-To) is essentially a Negroni without the gin. It gets it’s name from its ingredients: Campari (from Milan) and sweet vermouth (from Torino). Top that off with soda water and there you have it. After years of American tourists ordering the drink in Italy, the common name has shifted away from the origins a little. Now it’s commonly known as the Americano .

Cape Codder

One of your first drinks could have been a Cape Codder and you didn’t even know it. The cocktail is simply a vodka cranberry (named after Cape Cod, Massachusetts) that can be spruced up with a simple lemon and mint garnish.

The London Fog takes after the weather feature the city is known for. It’s made with London dry gin, chilled water, and absinthe . Brighten it up with a crisp green apple garnish.

Many cocktails are spins on the classic martini, and the Osaka Dry is one of them. It’s a mix of vodka and saké garnished with pickled plum or a lemon twist.

“Crud” isn’t the most flattering name to attach to a drink. But at the J-Bar in Aspen, Colo., Crud has come to mean quality milkshake cocktail. Aspen Crud is simply five scoops of vanilla ice cream with added shots of bourbon.

Published: March 17, 2017

• 15 Cocktails Named After the World’s Great Cities (and Long Island) | VinePair
• https://vinepair.com/articles/15-cocktails-named-after-cities/
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• 2. Pinzeria by Bontempi – unforgettable signature cuisine
• 3. Sartoria Lamberti: when haute cuisine meets haute couture
• 4. Butler – little Italy in the heart of Moscow
• 5. Mollusca – the best place for mussels
• 6. Feel at home at Casa di famiglia
• 7. Vabene! for true pizza lovers
• 8. Sicilian cuisine at La Bottega Siciliana
• 9. Botteganova Organic – an Italian gastro boutique
• 10. Roberto Restaurant: dine like an Italian
• 11. Accenti: culinary traditions of Emilia-Romagna
• 12. Semifreddo: fine dining in an Italian style
• 13. Amarena Albero – a true spirit of Italy
• 14. A romantic dinner at La Provincia
• 15. Farro Pasta Bar: pizza, pasta and cocktails

Moscow is a city of a thousand tastes. A traveler can find almost all national cuisines here for any budget. If you are a fan of Italian food, about 2,000 restaurants offer both classical and exclusive Italian delicacies. How to choose the best place among such a variety of options? Let’s see what restaurants are highly rated by the locals and visitors of the city.

It's a traditional Tuscanian fish stew, a mix of seafood creatures. Cacciucco means 'small dimensions' as all the ingredients are chopped into very small pieces. This stew is usually cooked from 5 different types of fish and shellfish and served with thin slices of stale bread. The legend says that fishermen helped hungry children and everyone put one fish in their pot, that's how this soup was created.

Average bill: 1,000 – 2,500 rubles

Osteria Mario is a network of cozy family restaurants with locations in almost all Moscow districts. It is a place where you’ll enjoy the cuisine the way the Italians do. The authentic Pizza Romana, Cacciucco  seafood soup, and mussels in white wine will never leave you indifferent. There is a special zone and menu for kids. Each Saturday and Sunday, the young guests can have fun at cooking classes, making pizza and ravioli with their own hands.

Average bill: 1,500 – 2,000 rubles

Pinzeria by Bontempi is a network of eateries where you can taste pinza, a unique dish created by Valentino Bontempi, an Italian chef and the author of bestselling gastronomy books. The pinza was inspired by the Roman Empire's simple but hearty flatbread, which Virgil mentioned as the food that gives strength. The chef restored the lost recipe, and now everyone in Moscow can taste an oval-shaped, tender delicacy. In addition to almost 30 varieties of pinza, the restaurants serve home-made pasta, gluten-free dishes, and vegan food. A real paradise for healthy lifestyle enthusiasts!

It's a rich Italian soup made of vegetables, meat, pasta or rice. The common ingredients are tomatoes, potatoes, beans and celery. Minestrone is a synonym for 'a mix of all things' and originated in the Roman Kindom where it was vegetarian by necessity.

Average bill: 3,200 – 4,100 rubles

Sartoria Lamberti is a luxurious restaurant inside the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, not far from the Moscow Kremlin. But it is famous not for its location, but for its unique concept and haute cuisine. Right after the threshold, there is a shop where a seamstress embroiders monogrammed gifts for visitors. The restaurant’s interior is designed as a tailor's shop, with columns in the form of thimbles, mannequins, lamps looking like men's cuffs, cutlery with needle ears on handles, and other attributes of an atelier. The menu includes classical Italian dishes, such as minestrone , seafood risotto, and black truffle linguine. And true gourmands will appreciate exclusive haute cuisine masterpieces. There is an open kitchen with a wood-burning oven and a grill, where meat, fish, and seafood are cooked. The bar offers a good choice of wines and a variety of signature cocktails, which can be prepared and presented right at your table. A good place for fine dining lovers!

This dish comes from Northern Italy whose climate is ideal for growing rice (riso means 'rice'). The key ingredient is semi-rounded short-grain rice cooked with meat, fish or vegetable broth. Try risotto with parmesan cheese and white wine. Add saffron for flavour and yellow colour.

Average bill: 3,000 – 5,000 rubles

Butler is a Michelin-selected restaurant located in a beautiful historical building near Patriarshiye Ponds. Its impeccable Sicilian cuisine by the chef Giuseppe Davi will not leave you indifferent. In addition to pasta, risotto , and pizzas, the restaurant offers a large selection of fish and seafood dishes. Oysters, sea urchins, shrimp, tuna, and Dorado fish are just a few choices in a long menu list. The one who prefers meat dishes will definitely appreciate premium steaks cooked on an open fire. The interiors of the restaurant also give aesthetic pleasure and, in combination with high-level service, will make your dinner unforgettable.

Mussels are a type of bivalve mollusks, that are similar to clams and oysters. They are a great source of vitamins and have a mild, faintly sweet flavor. Mussels can be pan-roasted, steamed, stewed, or added to other dishes.

Average bill: 2,500 – 3,000 rubles

If you have a taste for mussels , then Mollusca is right for you. Very few restaurants can boast of 101 sauce recipes for this popular seafood. You can choose between creamy, salty, or chocolate flavors. The restaurant's menu includes many other culinary delights: sea bass crudo, salad with grilled squid, Neapolitan-style fritto misto, and many others. All this diversity is the creation of Gianmaria Sapia, a hereditary chef from Liguria. Mollusca has three locations in the central districts of Moscow. The interior of the restaurant is designed in the style of Art Nouveau with Art Deco elements.

It's an authentic no-bake Italian dessert with a coffee flavor. It means 'cheer me up' because of the two caffeine-containing ingredients - coffee and cocoa. Tiramisu is made from espresso-dipped ladyfingers and mascarpone cream.

Casa di famiglia is a network of cozy Italian restaurants located in the residential areas of Moscow. They are very popular with the locals due to their family concept, average prices, and good choice of pizzas. The menu has 19 pizza variants, including vegetarian ones. Here, you can order practically all Italian hits: pastas, bruschettas, risotto, and authentic tiramisu and semifreddo desserts. But it is not only good cuisine, but also a warm atmosphere that attracts visitors here. "Casa di famiglia" is translated as "family home," and the place deserves this name. There is a special children’s menu. And while adults are having a chat, kids can have fun under the supervision of animators in a playroom.

This traditional Italian dish comes from Bologna and it seems the oldest type of pasta. Lasagna is stacked layers of wide and flat pasta and a variety of other ingredients, including sauce, vegetables, cheese, meat, etc. The word 'lasagna' refers to a pot where this dish was cooked.

Vabene! reminds one of old Italian trattorias: brick walls, colorful tablecloths, designer lamps without shades, and paintings on the walls. You’ll find 25 pizza types of 3 different sizes here: 30, 38, and 80 cm. The wine list has several options by glass and about 50 in bottles. In the morning, the restaurant offers fixed-price breakfasts, including the branded one. Vabene! is also known as a delivery service where you can order all Italian cuisine dishes, from classical pizzas, pastas, and lasagnas to gourmet beef tagliata and vitello tonnato.

This dish comes from the region of Lombardy and the word means 'bone with the hole'. Ossobuco is made from cross-cut veal shranks that are slowly braised with vegetables, broth and white wine. Braising makes this tough meat tender. It is usually served with mashed potatoes.

Average bill: 1,300 – 2,700 rubles

La Bottega Siciliana is a little island of authentic Sicilian cuisine near the Red Square and the Bolshoi Theater. The restaurant is divided into 3 parts: a pastry shop, a hall with a view of the open kitchen, and a cozy hall with a fireplace. The menu is rather diverse and includes all popular Italian dishes. Seafood lovers will enjoy sea urchins, oysters, wild fish ceviche, and shrimp crudo. And true gourmands are advised to taste ossobuco Milanese, a venetian-style calf-liver, and an eggplant dish made according to chef Nino’s recipe. The pastry shop serves more than 30 desserts and genuine Italian gelato.

Botteganova Organic is a place where the dreams of healthy lifestyle fans come true. This is a family restaurant where the love of Italian gastronomy coexists with the idea of healthy eating. All the products are carefully selected and purchased from the best farms. In addition to pasta and pizza, the menu has steaks and fresh seafood  cooked right before your eyes in the open kitchen. There is also a signature dish that is worth tasting. It is the Kabardian smoked cheese that adds some exotics to classical Italian cuisine. At the gastro boutique inside the restaurant, one can buy fresh vegetables and all kinds of Italian products. There is one more thing that makes the place stand out among other restaurants. This is an underground parking lot where the owners of eco-friendly electric vehicles can charge their cars for a nominal fee.

Oysters are one of the most delicious seafood dishes. Oysters can be cooked in a variety of ways. They may be smoked, boiled, steamed, pan fried, grilled, or baked. The unique flavor of an oyster, which may be salty, sweet, buttery, copper, briny, or melon, heavily depends on where it was caught.

Average bill: 1,000 – 1,500 rubles

If you happen to walk along Rozhdestvensky Boulevard, the best choice for dinner is Roberto Restaurant. This is a small but very cozy place, which was named after its first Italian chef. The place has always been very popular, both among locals and tourists. Italian celebrities visited the place more than once. Among them were actor Michele Placido, football player and coach Nevio Scala, and musician Marco Armani. In 2004, the trattoria became one of two Moscow restaurants to be awarded a certificate confirming the authenticity of Italian cuisine outside the Apennine Peninsula. The menu includes traditional Italian hits, dishes from local, seasonal products, and signature delicacies such as beef fillet with black truffle sauce. Sea urchins, oysters , and crabs can be ordered straight from the aquarium. The bar offers a good list of elite wines from all Italian regions. Visitors with children will appreciate a special menu for kids.

Antipasto is a traditional Italian snack (the word “antipasto” literally means “before meals”). It may be hot or cold and it may contain cold cuts, seafood, cheeses, and vegetables.

Average bill: 530 – 1,300 rubles

Accenti is located in a detached building in a quiet Moscow courtyard. People come here to enjoy authentic Italian cuisine and relax from the hustle and bustle of the big city. The interiors are decorated with green plants and flowers, paintings, classical chandeliers, and plaster figures. An old carved fireplace and candlesticks, as well as designer wallpapers depicting sunny landscapes, create an authentic Italian atmosphere. Visitors will enjoy a good choice of antipasti , pizzas, pastas, and desserts. Pizza is cooked according to the old Neapolitan recipes in a wood-burning oven. Pasta fans are offered spaghetti, tagliatelle, and ravioli made of selected durum wheat. Exclusive delicacies, such as squid tentacles in a Ligurian style, duck breast with caramelized oranges, and fried duck liver with porcini mushroom sauce, are served for hot meals. The basement houses a cozy wine loft with a decorative fireplace, an old Ed. Seiler piano, and racks with a rich collection of wines.

It's a very tasty Italian dessert with the texture of frozen mousse. Semifreddo means 'half cold' and it is made of sugar, egg yolks and whipped cream. This dish is usually served in the form of tarts or ice cream cakes.

Average bill: 7,000 – 7,500 rubles

Semifreddo is not only a popular Italian dessert but also a luxury restaurant in Moscow, not far from Park Kultury Metro Station. This is the brainchild of the famous Sicilian chef Nino Graziano, whose restaurant in Sicily was awarded 2 Michelin stars. The Moscow restaurant is in no way inferior. It is a mixture of modern and classical approaches to fine dining culture. The menu offers traditional Italian and Sicilian cuisine, creative recipes by Nino Graziano, signature dishes from other chefs, and the Semiramis menu. True gourmands will enjoy an exclusive set of dishes with Alba white truffle and black caviar. Whatever you choose — classical minestrone, duck foie gras escalope with marsala sauce, or gourmet semifreddo “Roshe” — everything will be worthy of the honorary title of haute cuisine. The wine list is just like the cuisine: refined and balanced. Due to such outstanding qualities, the restaurant was highly rated by many prestigious guides, including the guides of Michelin, Gault& Millau, and Gambero Rosso.

It's a classic Italian pasta made of spaghetti or other long pasta, guanciale or pancetta, parmesan, olive oil, salt and pepper. Carbonara means 'in the manner of coal miners'. There are different theories for its origin. The dish could be the main meal for charcoal workers or just the black pepper flecks look like coal dust against the creamy pasta.

Average bill: 1,000 – 2,000 rubles

Amarena is an Italian restaurant of the Albero Group that promotes the concept of family dining. Its cuisine is in the hands of Maurizio Romagnoli, a hereditary chef from Italy. So, every dish is simultaneously traditional and unique here. Carbonara  is prepared the way it is done in Italy — without adding any cream, and pizza is made on the thinnest dough. Special attention should be paid to black ravioli with salmon and dried tomato cream, tomato soup with stracciatella, and truffle pasta cooked in a Parmesan cheese head. The interior of Amarena is very democratic and light. It has panoramic windows overlooking the courtyard and the open kitchen, which visually expands the space. The restaurant is open 24 hours a day, so one can have freshly brewed coffee even at night.

Pappardelle is one of the widest types of flat egg paste. The name of this noodle comes from the verb "pappare", which in Tuscan dialect means "to eat with pleasure and joy." The width of fresh pappardelle can reach 3 cm, dry ones are narrower - 1.3-1.5 cm. Homemade pappardelle is not difficult to prepare, but they turn out to be incredibly tasty and aromatic.

Average bill: 1,700 – 3,200 rubles

La Provincia is a cozy corner of Italy not far from the legendary Gorky Park. Here, the chef from Southern Italy will offer you traditional Italian dishes. Pappardelle with truffle, foie gras with quail and saffron pear, and risotto with cuttlefish ink are just a few of the restaurant's signature dishes that are worth tasting. There is also a good choice of seafood: oysters, grilled octopus, Kamchatka crab with spicy herbs, scallops in the shell, sea urchins, squids, and cuttlefish. The interior looks very elegant with crystal chandeliers, white tablecloths, Venetian chairs, candlesticks, and mirrors in solid frames. But despite all this luxury, it turns out to be a democratic restaurant with a homely atmosphere and fair prices.

It's traditional Italian flat oven-baked bread that is cooked in flat sheet pans, flavoured with olive oil and rosemary and topped with herbs and vegetables. Focaccia is regarded as a pizza's precursor. It derives from the Latin word 'focacia' which means 'hearth' or 'fireside'.

Average bill: 800 – 1,200 rubles

Farro is a modern gastro bar located in the historical part of Moscow, halfway between Kitay Gorod and Chistye Prudy. As you can judge from the name, the menu is focused on homemade pasta for every taste. But the restaurant can also boast of its pizza Romana, a variety of focaccias and light snacks, and an extensive wine list. The cocktail collection will impress you with its signature variants inspired by famous painters. Order "Gustav Klimt" to feel the taste of baked-pear brandy ennobled by the flavors of grape and jasmine. And "Frida Kahlo" will let you discover the taste of pink-pepper tequila mixed with passion fruit, blue agave, and lime. The interior of Farro Pasta Bar is also a kind of artwork. It is very atmospheric: designer plafonds, unpainted walls, wooden tables... And its floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows allow one to enjoy the rhythm of Moscow life.

Just make a choice and enjoy a wonderful evening in a warm Italian atmosphere. Pizza Romana, Risotto alla Milanese, Sicilian shrimp, and many other Italian delicacies are waiting for you in Moscow. Buon Appetito!

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Park hyatt milan marks 20th year with design additions.

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One of the Italian design capital’s top hotels, Park Hyatt Milan, is celebrating 20 years of hosting both locals and guests with the completion of a multi-year transformation.

Inside the new Montenapoleone suite at Park Hyatt Milan.

For the past 20 years, Park Hyatt Milan has been welcoming guests into its sumptuous guest spaces and buzzy public venues occupying this 1870-built landmark. Set alongside the city’s iconic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II—Italy’s oldest active shopping gallery—the hotel places you right at the heart of this fashion and design capital’s historic center, just moments from the many-spired Duomo di Milano.

Park Hyatt Milan is celebrating its 20th anniversary with the completion of its phased redesign.

Since 2020, this landmark urban retreat has undergone a property-wide transformation, with the re-imagination of its guest accommodation, AQVAM Spa and common areas (including the newly created fine dining restaurant Pellico 3 Milano) all revealed in 2022, and a collection of new signature suites now completing the full hotel update. Visit the hotel now and you’ll see a fresh new look across much of its opulent interiors.

The fine dining Pellico 3 Milano restaurant of Park Hyatt Milan.

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As the property celebrates the completion of its phased re-design, the focus falls on its newest luxury accommodation options, the palatial Duomo, Montenapoleone, Brera, Solferino and Fiori Chiari signature suites. This is where you want to stay for the ultimate Park Hyatt Milan experience.

The renowned Italian architect, Flaviano Capriotti (who also designed the interiors of Mio Lab cocktail bar and the restaurant Pellico 3 Milano) led the design of these five distinct suites, which are each named after a site or district of Milan.

Inside the Montenapoleone suite of Park Hyatt Milan.

Inspired by the idea of a serene retreat amid the cityscape, as well as the modernity of Italy’s great post-second-world-war architects, Capriotti transformed these sprawling hideaways with references to Milan and nearby regions of Italy. Green Verdi Alpi marble features alongside Italian walnut and furnishings by prominent Italian designers feature throughout.

The private terrace of Park Hyatt Milan's Montenapoleone suite.

The hotel’s Duomo and Montenapoleone suites are located on the top (sixth) floor, with expansive living areas leading out to private outdoor terraces and a Jacuzzi also built into the Duomo suite’s outdoor area. A highlight of the hotel’s biggest suite, Montenapoleone, is its statement double-sided fireplace set at the heart of the lounge area.

On the second floor, the Brera suite overlooks the hotel’s 19th-century glass-domed courtyard, while the slightly smaller Solferino and Fiori Chiari suites mirror each other, with the Fiori Chiari suite also featuring a balcony overlooking the city center. Each of these suites comes with the same style language and use of locally sourced materials.

Mio Lab cocktail bar of Park Hyatt Milan.

If you’re here before May 04, you can also tuck into the 20 th anniversary menu of Pellico 3 Milano where the chef Guido Paternollo has devised a series of new dishes drawing on Milanese tradition. On this menu, the flavours of Milan and the region of Lombardy are showcased in reinterpretations of Milanese classics like saffron risotto and Cotoletta alla Milanese (veal cutlet). At Mio Lab cocktail bar, the occasion is then being marked with the creation of the PHM20 cocktail, which is a twist on the Bloody Mary.

When you’re here it’s clear that Park Hyatt Milan ’s anniversary celebration is as much about celebrating the hotel’s connection to Milan as it is about marking this significant milestone.

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