Aperitivo is often one of the first habits people encounter after moving to Milan. It shows up early in conversations but it’s rarely explained.

Most people learn how aperitivo works by observing the locals. And that’s often where confusion comes from.

Aperitivo in Everyday Life

In Milan, aperitivo usually happens in the early evening, after work or classes. It’s a moment to pause before the night continues.

You meet someone, order a drink, and spend some time together. Food is present, but it’s not the main focus. The evening doesn’t have a fixed direction yet, and that’s part of the point.

The Food That Comes With It

In most places, the food is simple and meant to accompany the drink.

It’s common to see: chips, olives, taralli, small pieces of focaccia or bread, sometimes salami or cheese, occasionally a small plate prepared by the bar.

What’s served can change from day to day. Portions are usually modest, and people don’t pay much attention to them once the drink arrives.

About the Price

Aperitivo prices in Milan tend to fall into two broad ranges. In more classic or informal bars, aperitivo usually costs around 10–12 euros.This typically includes the drink and a small selection of snacks.

In more curated or design-driven places, prices often sit between 15 and 20 euros.

In these cases, you’re usually paying for the setting, the cocktails, and the atmosphere rather than a larger amount of food.

Once this is clear, pricing feels easier to read and expectations tend to align naturally.

How People Choose Where to Go

Over time, aperitivo becomes less about the concept and more about habit.

People return to places that match their rhythm, somewhere close to work, a bar that feels familiar, a place that suits a certain mood. Some evenings call for something quiet and others for something livelier.

That’s why aperitivo can look very different from one night to the next.