Verona food guide · aperitivo
Aperitivo in Verona: 4 bars for a good first round
The best aperitivo is less about a perfect spritz and more about choosing the right corner of the city before dinner.
Updated July 2026 · Welcome to Verona Editorial Team
Make a place, not a drink, the decision.
Start with a historic wine bar, a relaxed osteria, a riverside terrace or a casual focaccia-and-glass stop. Arrive early for the view, and remember that the best tables are rarely the ones found at the last minute.
01 · An informal central first round
Osteria La Mandorla
A relaxed choice for wine and traditional snacks in the centre. It works well when the evening starts without a fixed plan and you want to let the nearby lanes do the rest.
02 · A spritz with an Adige view
Terrazza Bar al Ponte
Come for the terrace above the river near Ponte Pietra, especially around golden hour. Outdoor tables are sought after, so verify the current booking policy and arrive with some flexibility.
03 · Focaccia and a casual drink
Osteria del Caval Matto
A central, laid-back osteria for focaccia, simple plates and an easy first glass. Keep it as a flexible stop rather than an over-planned reservation.
04 · A serious Veronese wine list
Antica Bottega del Vino
The historic option when the wine itself is the occasion. Choose it for a deeper Amarone or Valpolicella exploration with traditional dishes, and reserve if you want to make a proper evening of it.
Golden hour needs a backup plan.
Terrazza Bar al Ponte is all about the river view. If the terrace is full, keep the walk through Ponte Pietra and Veronetta as the reward.