The Aperol Spritz — the fizzy, bright orange cocktail hailing from Italy’s Veneto region — has taken the world by storm, but the Italian tradition of aperitivo goes far beyond the ubiquitous drink. In cities like Florence, Venice, and Rome, where I live, sidewalk cafés routinely fill up in the early evenings, but it’s also common to offer guests an aperitivo when hosting a dinner party or leisurely lunch on weekends or holidays at home.

The word “aperitivo” comes from the Latin “aperire,” meaning “to open,” so it’s meant to prepare your appetite before a meal. But the social aspect of it is just as important: All over the Italian peninsula, aperitivo is considered a chance to sit down with family or friends and enjoy some quality time together. If you want to plan an Italian-inspired aperitivo, here are some tips to keep in mind.