Whet your appetite with an aperitivo in Singapore – a pre-dinner ritual that we're obsessing over now.
In a cosmopolitan city like Singapore, we get the pleasure of exploring different cultures, especially when it involves food. Today, let’s look into the Italian tradition of aperitivos. Think of it as a pre-dinner snack and drink that opens up your appetite. It’s not meant to replace a full meal, but we can’t blame you if you fill up. We get carried away too while enjoying lighthearted conversations over cured meat and cheese. For those ready to take part in this Italian girl dinner, here’s where to find aperitivo in Singapore.
Where to have an aperitivo in Singapore
1. Employees Only
For the veterans in the night scene, you’ll know that the energy at Employees Only is often incomparable. The minute the sun sets, the music turns up and it’s party central with napkins thrown into the air and dancing filling the space. But if you’re looking for a moment to wind down and relax, hit up the bar during its Aperitivo Hour which starts at 5pm. Pick between classic or Employees Only cocktails to go along with snacks like oysters, shrimp cocktail, or steak tartare.
Employees Only, 112 Amoy Street, Singapore 069932
2. Lavo
This rooftop dining destination is your gateway to a luxurious Italian dinner. Set atop the iconic Marina Bay Sands hotel, its champagne brunches and 20-layer chocolate cake are the things of dreams. Talk about pure indulgence. We recommend swinging by just before the evening dinner crowd so that you can get front-row seats to the sunset. Pick between spritzes and variations of Negronis for your aperitif of choice. Don’t forget to put in an order for sharing plates of fried calamari or tuna tartare to complete the aperitivo experience.
Lavo, Level 57, 10 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018956
3. The Dempsey Project
It’s all about thoughtfully sourced produce at The Dempsey Project. The menu is diverse and caters to the palates of many, including vegans, vegetarians, and anyone keeping gluten-free. Grab a seat and browse the Sunset and Beyond menu for gourmet plates that are great for sharing. The za’atar flatbread with dips is the perfect pre-dinner snack, or treat yourself to savoury wagyu beef nachos. Wash it all down with an Aperol spritz and you’ll be all warmed up for dinner.
The Dempsey Project, #01-12, 9 Dempsey Road, Singapore 247697
4. Rosso Vino
For an authentic taste of Italy, Rosso Vino is the top recommendation. Not only is the food bursting with flavour, the service is incredibly top notch. And with its alfresco setting, you can spend your time pretending you’re in the bustling streets of Italy. After ordering your aperitif of choice, order appetisers like the assortment of bruschetta or homemade garlic bread that’s warm and toasty. Now you’re armed and ready to people-watch till the sun sets.
Rosso Vino, 15 Merbau Road, Singapore 239032
5. Latteria Mozzarella Bar
What better way to enjoy your aperitivo in Singapore than with plates of freshly made cheese? Latteria Mozzarella Bar has (you guessed it) some of the creamiest mozzarella and burrata cheese interpreted in various ways. You can get it deep fried, glazed with balsamic, or even smoked! Drinks wise, you can find a number of fortified wines on the menu served by the glass, or splurge and go for a bottle to enjoy as a group. If not, go for Aperol or Limoncello spritzes for a sweet touch.
Latteria Mozzarella Bar, 40 Duxton Hill, Singapore 089618
6. Altro Zafferano
Warm Italian hospitality, impeccable views, and convivial ambience – what more could you ask for? You’ll be sent on an immersive journey through contemporary southern Italian fare shaped by history. If you manage to get a seat outside, we highly recommend it because the views of Marina Bay are spectacular. The cocktail menu has a number of gin-based drinks that are perfect aperitifs. Your choice of snacks includes beef tartare, caviar, spiced olives, and more.
Altro Zafferano, Level 43, Ocean Financial Centre, 10 Collyer Quay, Singapore 049315
7. Apero
Tucked away in a shophouse within Circular Road, Apero is a breath of fresh air with its clean and minimalist decor. Vinophiles, pop by for the curated wine list at pocket-friendly prices by the team’s sommelier. As you sip away, nibble on snacks like crab cakes, beef carpaccio, and marinated olives. You can’t go wrong with a cheese board either, and the team offers a great selection, including a baked camembert filled with truffle. So good.
Apero, 37 Circular Road, Singapore 049393
And there’s your list of aperitivo spots in Singapore. Cheers!
