L’apéro—short for l’apéritif, or what’s known as the French evening prayer— is a pre-meal ritual involving a few drinks and some finger foods. It is a most cherished interlude in the day’s activities—a moment of conviviality, which is so dear to the French. You might think of it as happy hour, but for the French, it is a sacred and a quintessential part of social culture. Taking part in this evening ritual perpetuates a feeling of belonging. The food and drink is an added bonus.
While Americans are aficionados of mixed cocktails, the French would rather reach for their locally-produced spirits and liqueurs, which French regions are rich with. But, I feel the real pleasure of it all exists in the delicacies each regional table provides. In Lyon, while in university, I discovered the pleasures of Cervelle de Canut (Herbed Cheese Spread) while sipping on Beaujolais Nouveau. If you’re visiting the chic French Riviera, you’ll likely get served squares of a famous Pissaladière (Onion, Anchovy and Black Olive Tart) or a bowl of Barbajuans (Fried Ravioli). And whenever I’m visiting Marseille, Panisses (Chickpea Flour Fries) and a glass of rosé wine are my go-to.
Simplicity and lack of fuss are always prevalent—the simpler the better. An apéro is all about whetting the appetite and getting the conversation flowing….