You are all invited on a quick trip to Italy with Ottawa Magazine food editor and City Bites blogger Shawna Wagman…

What: Aperitivo is a pre-meal drink designed to stimulate the appetite for dinner. It’s a popular ritual in parts of Italy that involves gathering together after work for a drink and a delicious spread of snacks. The Nicastro family invites CITY BITES readers to discover traditional aperitivi cocktails paired with house specialties from Ventuno’s kitchen and its neighbouring negozio.

When: Thursday, Dec. 15 between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Where: Caffé Ventuno, 1355 Wellington St. W., www.caffeventuno.ca

Cost: $20 for one cocktail (negroni, bellini, or prosecco recommended) includes classic aperitivo snacks.

Please note that capacity in the restaurant is limited so this event will be first-come-first-served. Feel free to wander around Nicastro’s negozio “next door” before of after joining us for aperitivo. Browse for holiday gift ideas and be sure to check out the tremendous salume e formaggi selection. If you plan to stay for dinner at the restaurant to experience the new winter menu, please reserve ahead by calling 613-729-9121.