Whether its a classic Negroni, or a Spritzer - or even a Campari on the rocks, the Aperitifs have got to be top preference for a full day of drinking, or an early start to the evening. Aperitifs are typically drunk before a meal, to well, create an appetite. But who’s looking at the rules, eh?

Here are the top bars of London where you can enjoy this typically Italian drink in all its glory - 

CECCONI’s

Cecconi’s is a modern-day classic Italian restaurant serving handmade pasta, seafood and dishes from Italy using the finest ingredients. There are a few different locations but the Mayfair one is arguably the most popular.

Image : Cecconi’s Mayfair

Reservation : +44 (0)20 7434 1500

Address : Cecconi's Mayfair. 5A Burlington Gardens, London, W1S 3EP

POLPO

Polpo started off as a stand alone restaurant in London’s iconic Soho before adding a site in Chelsea’s Duke of York Square. 

Polpo has been serving Venetian style sharing plates to Londoners since 2009. Taking inspiration from the traditional bàcaris of Venice, the menu comprises cicheti (Venetian snacks) followed by larger dishes including pasta and pizzettes, all of which are designed to be shared between the whole table. 

Image : Polpo

Address : 41 Beak St, Carnaby, London W1F 9SB, United Kingdom

Reservation :  +44 20 4537 4341

BAR TERMINI

One of London’s favourite gems to get an authentic Italian Negroni, Bar Termini in Soho serves up a divine Aperitivo. They have a menu filled with Campari-based cocktials, including a Campari Old Fashioned and Sbagliato. They also have a special £4 Aperitivo menu available between 5-7pm. Get there early though as it fills up quickly!

Image from Best cocktails in London at Bar Termini - Like Love Do

Reservations :  +44 (0) 7860945018

Address : 7 Old Compton Street, London W1D 5JE

SORELLA

Sorella is a true neighbourhood Italian inspired restaurant awarded Michelin Bib Gourmand 2019, 2020 & 2021. The bar focuses on the glorious tradition of aperitivo and twists on classics with seasonal Bellinis, Americanos and Vault Vermouth Negronis on tap. 

Image : Sorella

Address : 148 Clapham Manor St, London SW4 6BX

Reservations : 020 7720 4662 

MELE E PERE

Three brothers and a friend set out to create a genuine neighbourhood Trattoria, reminiscent of the fabulous family run places of Northern Italy where all of them grew up. Their seasonal menu is cooked with British produce and exceptional Italian ingredients - and are known to have London’s largest selection of Vermouths behind the bar. 

They also have an exclusive Italian wine list by the glass and carafe. 

Image : Mele E Pere

Address : 46 Brewer Street, Soho, London W1F 9TF

Reservation : 020 7096 2096

Their sister sites include Gotto Trattoria and Pizzeria, The Lock Inn and Pesca Trattoria. 

Written by Stuti Khetan, Beverage Trade Network