The Italian ritual of aperitivo — a light drink served with snacks before a meal — is the perfect way to capture the relaxed energy of summer. It’s designed to stimulate the appetite, bring people together, and leave plenty of room for what comes next.

And this season, spritzers are having a major moment.

A fruity, vibrant spritz is the afternoon essential — ideal for long lunches, golden hour catch-ups, and laid-back events. The beauty of the spritz is its simplicity: bubbles, a bitter-sweet hero, soda, and citrus, served over plenty of ice with an eye-catching garnish.

The most successful spritz menus also embrace colour and creativity — vivid orange Aperol, rich red Campari, bright lemony limoncello, and botanical elderflower each bring a different mood to the glass.

Build a Spritz Menu That Suits Every Taste

To create a spritz line-up guests will love, aim for:

• Variety (bitter, sweet, floral, citrus)

• Visual appeal (colour + garnish + glassware)

• Easy builds (quick to assemble, consistent serve)

From classic Aperol to floral Hugo, here are five spritz recipes that cover every occasion.

Spritz Recipes (Easy Builds for Summer Service)

Spritz Service Tips (Quick Wins)

To elevate the spritz experience:

• Use clear ice and full glasses for that premium look

• Garnish generously with citrus + fresh herbs

• Offer multiple flavour styles so everyone can find their favourite

• Consider creative glassware to make the menu feel more curated

Spritz menus are an easy summer win — bright, refreshing, and perfectly suited to social occasions where guests want something light, fun and flavourful.