An apéro, “c’est quoi ça?” “What’s that?” you may ask. The French dictionary defines an apéro (short for l’apéritif) as "a social function; a convivial moment shared between friends, colleagues or family, generally preceding a main meal, and during which light drinks, alcoholic or not, are consumed, accompanied by small snacks or appetizers such as charcuterie boards."
A non-native French person may believe that an apéro is simply an appetizer among friends. I’d like to share with you that an apéro is much more than just food and small talk. An apéro is the prequel to the night that lies in store.
Let’s start from the beginning, upon arriving at the home of the friend that’s hosting the apéro, you will “faire la bise” that is, greet everyone with an “air kiss” on each cheek. You may catch note of the question and response, “Ça va?” A swift “How are you?” “I’m good”, before the main conversation course begins.
The apéro could take place wherever there's a welcoming table filled with hors d’œuvres that make your mouth water, such as tuna rillettes or pâté en croûte, refreshing drinks that swirl in your glass as you make a cheers, (“santé'' or “tchin”) all while passionate debates and warm laughter encircle the air.
This lively apéro could be on a terrasse with chic bistro style folding chairs, in a garden surrounded by storybook vines, or cozy inside near a fireplace. Wherever it may be, I’m sure that the impeccable way in which the table is presented will catch your eye. It’s rare that you’ll see a jar of olives or a box of pretzels on the table. (Presentation goes hand in hand with the art of culinary French culture).
Instead, you’ll notice the starters and crudités thoughtfully placed in dainty bowls and dishes. Everything has a purpose; you may find a laquiole knife used to spread creamy perfectly salted french butter onto tiny radishes, cut in the shape of flowers, or petits toasts. Or maybe you’ll see a petit pot of toothpicks next to a platter of sliced saucisson gently touching the sprigs of parsley used to decorate the plate.
If you like cheese and bread then you’ll especially be in for a treat if gougères happens to be offered during the apéro. ( A gougère is a baked savory choux pastry made of a puffed dough commonly mixed with gruyère or Comte cheese.)
Having an apéro is the perfect time to slow down and appreciate your life amidst family, friends, colleagues, or interesting new company. In the summertime, almost nothing beats a fine glass of Rosé. If it’s especially sweltering out, add a few ice cubes to your glass and now you have a Rose piscine; a “swimming pool rosé”.
As the seasons change and the air cools, winter brings its own delights. Picture yourself with a cozy cup of vin chaud, a mulled wine infused with aromatic spices like cinnamon, cloves, and citrus. For a simpler touch, a black coffee or une verre (a glass) of sparkling mineral water will do just fine. In every season, the spirit of the apéro invites you to slow down, enjoy, and take it all in.
I hope the French’s « joie de vivre » sweetly makes its way into your world. We invite you to consider hosting an apéro—it doesn’t have to be perfect, just an opportunity to be present. Let it unfold naturally, without rush. Savor each bite and every word shared with your guests, allowing yourself to slip into vacation mode as you take your time tasting the delicacies that lie before you.
A la vôtre!
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