Andiamo a prendere un aperitivo?

Shall we go for an aperitif?

Pronunciation

an-DIA-mo a PREN-de-re un a-pe-ri-TI-vo — stress on 'dia-', 'pren-', 'ti-'. 'Aperitivo' has five syllables.

When to use it

The perfect low-stakes Italian date suggestion — the aperitivo is casual, social, and ideal for a first or early meeting.

What it means

'Andiamo a' + infinitive = let's go and. 'Prendere un aperitivo' = to have an aperitif. 'Aperitivo' is an Italian pre-dinner drink (typically Spritz, Negroni, or Campari soda) often accompanied by small snacks. The aperitivo hour is 6-8pm.

Variations

Ti va uno Spritz?

Fancy a Spritz?

The Spritz is the most iconic Italian aperitivo

Ci prendiamo qualcosa prima di cena?

Shall we have something before dinner?

Casual and open — leaves the specific drink choice open

Conosco un bar con un ottimo happy hour.

I know a bar with a great happy hour.

Happy hour in Italy usually includes free snacks

Mini Dialogue

— Andiamo a prendere un aperitivo questo pomeriggio? — Volentieri! Dove? — C'è un bar nuovo in piazza che fanno degli Spritz ottimi. — Perfetto — a che ora? — Verso le sette?

— Shall we go for an aperitif this afternoon? — Gladly! Where? — There's a new bar in the square that makes excellent Spritzes. — Perfect — what time? — Around seven?

Cultural Note

The aperitivo in Italy is not just a drink — it is a social institution. Many Italians use aperitivo time specifically for first dates because it is relaxed and commitment-free: you can easily extend to dinner if it goes well, or leave after one drink if not.

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