It is an event that serves as an appetizer to dinner with the purpose of socializing with friends while drinking sunset-hued cocktails and snacking on a selection of cheeses and salami, bruschetta and sometimes fried foods. 

It is so embedded in the Italian lifestyle that bars all over the Italian peninsula host aperitivi with various drink and food options every day. How did this tradition become so popular in Italy and what are some of the best drinks to consider ordering when going to an Aperitivo?