L’aperitivo at Brunello, London

Unbeknownst to me, Italians have been engaging in a delicious pre-supper tradition – l’aperitivo – since time began. Fortunately, I was recently invited along to Kensington’s 5-star Baglioni Hotel to join in and experience the Italian way of eating.

Rather trivially, I choose my drinks based on the glasses they come in. I like champagne and martini glasses so I usually opt for one of those. On this occasion, I opted for a smooth, delicate rose martini – pretty, tasty and far too easy to drink… Complimenting my cocktail, small plates of deep-fried olives, smoked salmon and a cheese and ham platter – all of which were devoured slowly over conversation and laughs. And don’t even get me started on the bread basket. I ate so much of the focaccia, I think they had to start baking again! One thing that baffles me is how do Italians eat dinner after this? Do any Italian readers want to share the secret? For me, this alone is enough for a meal.

I’m still a little surprised that all of this is only costs £15. A Kensington location, terrace for those warm summer evenings, view of Kensington Gardens, cocktail and snacks plus the welcoming Italian hospitality we hear so much about. This touch of affordable culinary treat is available every night from 18h00 during the summer which, as every Londoner knows, isn’t very long!

Brunello
The Baglioni Hotel
60 Hyde Park Gate
SW7 5BB
44 (0)20 7368 5700

Not Just Another Milla was a guest of the Baglioni Hotel, London.