HoReCa trends 2026: the importance of the premium aperitivo

How the aperitivo is evolving in Italy

The aperitivo remains one of Italy's best-loved rituals, but guests' expectations are changing. The classic drink with crisps is no longer enough to stand out: customers look for quality, variety and an experience that is cared for down to the details. For bars, hotels and restaurants, this means rethinking the role of the snack.

Trend 1: visible quality

Guests notice the difference between a generic snack and a curated selection. Roasted nuts, refined mixes and recognisable products such as our cheese crackers raise the perception of the whole venue. A small but well-chosen range says more than many indistinct bowls.

Trend 2: variety of flavours

Alongside savoury classics, sweet-and-salty options, spiced and Asian notes and dried fruit are growing. Offering two or three different flavours lets you match different drinks and spark guests' curiosity. Ideas in the savoury and spiced collection.

Trend 3: inclusiveness

More and more groups include people who avoid gluten or certain allergens. A clear alternative, such as a selection of gluten-free snacks according to the product sheet, and transparent allergen information are now part of the service.

Trend 4: presentation

Glass, matching bowls and tidy counters turn the snack into an aesthetic element. Glass jars such as the hexagonal jar also showcase the product in hotels, minibars and welcome amenities. More tips in our guide on setting up the bar counter.

Trend 5: less waste

Sustainability also comes down to stock management. Properly stored dry snacks, standard portions and resealable formats reduce waste and make costs more predictable. To calculate them, read our guide to the food cost of the aperitivo.

Trend 6: the venue's own brand

Upscale hotels and venues increasingly use packs bearing their own logo for minibars, events and gifts: a detail that strengthens the property's identity. See private label.

What it means for your venue

There is no need to overhaul your offer. Simply choose a few quality products, present them well and measure how they sell. A bar can start with an aperitivo mix and a signature product; a hotel with a curated minibar, see minibar snacks.

Aperigusto as your partner

Aperigusto supplies professionals in Italy only, with a catalogue of more than 240 products and eight formats designed for service. To see the reserved terms, register as a B2B customer; once approved, you can try the products with the sample pack.

Frequently asked questions

Who can order from Aperigusto?

Only professional businesses with a VAT number: hotels, bars, restaurants, caterers, beach clubs and resellers. After registration, our team checks the request and activates the account with the reserved terms.

Where do you deliver?

Within Italy only, islands included. Details on timing and conditions in our shipping policy; more answers in our FAQ.