Some afternoons need a little sparkle. In Italy, we like to start things off with an Aperitivo. Simple. Relaxed. Not just for the fancy crowd, but for anyone ready for good conversation, laughter, and excellent bites. Picture yourself on the terrace at Sienna Marina: you have your choice of Italian Aperitivo drinks, the water glimmers nearby, and the food. Well, that’s where the magic starts.
What Exactly Is Aperitivo?
Aperitivo is our answer to unwinding before dinner. Traditionally, you sip something chilled or slightly bitter, maybe with a few bubbles. Italian Aperitivo drinks get you in the mood to eat. Classics like the Aperol Spritz, Negroni, Campari Spritz, and Bellini show up everywhere in Sydney these days. Whether you go for the bittersweet punch of a Negroni or the sunshine-bright Aperol Spritz, the idea is the same: prep your palate, lift your spirits.
Italian Aperitivo Drinks We Serve:
- Aperol Spritz: Orange liqueur, prosecco, soda, and an orange slice
- Negroni: Gin, Campari, sweet red vermouth, twist of orange
- Americano: Campari, sweet vermouth, soda water, lemon
- Bellini: Prosecco and fresh peach purée
- Campari Spritz: Campari, prosecco, soda, orange wedge
You’ll see Italian Aperitivo drinks at almost every table as the sun starts to slip down.
Which Italian Dishes Pair Best?
What’s an Aperitivo without food? The right dishes are small, shareable, and packed with bold flavours. We keep it light, so there’s plenty of room for dinner later.
Our favourite Aperitivo food pairings:
- Mini Pizzas – Crisp bases topped with mozzarella, tomato, basil. Easy to share, delicious with any spritz.
- Focaccia – Rosemary, sea salt, golden crust. Soaks up Italian Aperitivo drinks with ease.
- Bruschetta – Toasted bread with tomatoes, garlic, olive oil. Simple and unforgettable.
- Prosciutto and Melon – Salty meets sweet; never fails with a chilled Negroni.
- Marinated Olives – Herbs, citrus zest, served warm or cool. A classic nibble to go alongside any glass.
- Salami Puffs – Cream cheese and salami wrapped in pastry. Try with Campari Spritz for a perfect bite.
- Caprese Pasta Salad – Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, pesto cool and zesty, best with Bellini.
- Grilled Vegetable Farro Salad – Earthy and light; matches the bitterness of amaro drinks.
- Tarallini – Italian snack rings, slightly salty, crunchy, great for lingering over conversation.
You’ll notice how each dish brings out new notes in Italian Aperitivo drinks. Some add sweetness, others amplify the bitterness, all designed for snacking while sipping.

Why Should You Try Sienna Marina’s Aperitivo Hour?
We like to think of Sienna Marina as your stop for real Italian flavours. Our Aperitivo menu means you can slow down, taste something fresh, and enjoy Sydney’s waterfront from the best seat in the house.
- Each plate is crafted for sharing. You decide to mix, match, repeat.
- We pour Italian Aperitivo drinks just as they do in Rome, Florence, or Milan.
- Whether it’s old friends or a date night, there’s a spot for you by the water.
Enjoy more than just a drink. Enjoy a little piece of Italian tradition right here, paired with food that brings the best out of every moment.
Ready to taste the best Aperitivo foods and drinks in Sydney? Pull up a chair at Sienna Marina. Your glass, and your plate, will always be full.