Food

Q Aperitivo Review

Quaglino’s, the iconic London bar, are hosting a bespoke Aperitivo pop-up on Thursdays throughout September. Aptly titled Q Aperitivo, the event is the first time these cocktails have been shown in London. It follows the successful Aperitivo pop-up in New York’s Dante, a bar ranked number 16 in Worlds Best Bars.

Newly appointed and highly acclaimed mixologist of Quaglino’s, Federico Pasian, alongside Bar Manager Marco Sangion, have created five specially designed cocktails. As Federico hails from the home of Aperitivo, the cocktails showcase the varied landscapes of Italy from the sea to the woods. They balance the zingy bitters with sweet Mediterranean spirits to help the summer linger on.

The Merchant Of Venice is made using Rinomato Aperitivo, Mancino Chinato served with Peroni Ambra. Marco explained that it has the feel of the America’s. Served with some fruit and olives, it was a lovely cocktail.

We loved the presentation of The Vitamin Sea. Served in a shell on top off a bowl of ice, you tilt it and drink from one end of the shell. Tanqueray Gin, Italicus, Maraschino, Bergamot Juice, Lavender Syrup and Bob’s Ginger Bitter combine to create a sweet, citrus taste reminiscent of punch. A very light, refreshing cocktail this was our favourite of the evening.

For another light cocktail, why not try The Milky Way? It’s made using Mount Gay XO, Goslings, Antica Formula, Clear Milk, Cinnamon and Vanilla, Bitter Trilogy and Lemon Juice. They combine to create a unique flavour and after-taste. Given the ingredients it also has a creamy taste, perfect to end the night with.

If you’re looking for something a little more full-bodied then the next two will be up your alley. The Negroni Riposata comprises of Hudson Baby Bourbon, Campari, porcini, Noilly Prat, hazelnut liqueur and coconut butter. It comes in a little jar with a bowl of ice and the waiter pours into into the glass at the table. A sliver of citrus fruit is rubbed around the glass to help with the citrus taste. It was a very strong concoction and unfortunately not one of our favourites.

Into The Woods features Don Julio, Palo Cortado, White Truffle, Amer Picon and Dandelion Bitter. As the name suggests, it was inspired by Italy’s beautiful mountain regions. It’s presentation also helped create the mountain feeling with darker colours, heavier material and served on some seeds.

Complimentary Aperitivio snacks will accompany each cocktail. These include charcuterie platters, arancini, feta-stuffed peppers, spring rolls, falafel, and much more. The small plates are a great way to have a little of everything.

Authentic, live Italian music creates a fun relaxed vibe in this very elegant establishment. Founded in 1929 by Giovanni Quaglino, a restauranteur from northern Italy, Quaglino’s is perfectly located in the stylish and historic Mayfair area. Now under the hands of D&D London, a company who operate over 35 restaurants in the UK, Europe, America and Asia, Quaglino’s remains fashionable. It has hosted royalty including The Queen, Prince Phillip and Prince Harry, as well as Hollywood legends like Angelina Julie and Judy Garland. Now you too can experience the spectacular destination that is Quaglino’s.

Q Aperitivo is on every Thursday in September starting from 6th September. The event runs from 5:30-8pm. All cocktails are £13.50.

Quaglino’s also has an exciting new project on the way, beginning end of September. We can’t say too much about it currently, but it focuses on now and the future while promoting sustainability. Keep your eyes peeled for further information.

Address: 16 Bury St, St. James’s, London SW1Y 6AJ

Website: https://www.quaglinos-restaurant.co.uk/

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 020 7930 6767

Facebook:https://m.facebook.com/quaglinos

Instagram: https://instagram.com/quaglinos

Twitter:@quaglinos

Plus Google: https://plus.google.com/+QuaglinosrestaurantUklondon

#qaperitivo

Written by Caitlin Neal