ICYMI a recent article set off a heated debate after making the bold statement that an Aperol Spritz is “not a good drink.” Well, these spots around Los Angles might beg to differ: especially with summer right around the corner, they are serving up delicious versions of the classic Italian cocktail.
From classics to creative twists and even some on happy hour specials, check out the beloved Aperol Spritzes found at these six spots in L.A.
Massilia’s
Massilia’s recently launched its spring “Aperitivo” Happy Hour menu. The happy hour features special prices on Mediterranean appetizers such as socca chips with pea hummus, roasted red pepper bruschetta, merguez sausages and an Aperitivo platter. Drink choices include wine, beer and cocktails, including their Aperol Spritz, all priced below $11. The happy hour is offered 7 days a week, starting at 3 p.m. and continuing until 6:30 p.m. The Massilia team just redid the patio, perfect for some outside sips.. Can’t make it to Happy Hour? Take advantage of their bottomless spritz brunch.
1445 4th St., Santa Monica,Massilia.com, @maisonmassilia
Inko Nito
Inko Nito is the hip Arts District restaurant and bar specializing in a Japanese robatayaki meets Korean menu. It also happens to boast a killer cocktail program. During Social Hour, check out their signature Inko Spritz made with watermelon, Aperol, yuzu and sparkling wine.
225-227 Garey St., Los Angeles, inkonitorestaurant.com, @inkonitola
Cal Mare
Cal Mare is an homage to the coast of Italy and Southern California from chef/partner Adam Sobel in collaboration with Michael Mina and MINA Group. Located on the ground floor of the newly designed Beverly Center, the restaurant celebrates the best of coastal Italian cuisine and cocktails. At Happy Hour, indulge in one of the most authentic Aperol Spritzes in the city for just $7. Bites to pair include Stuffed Peppers, Mozzarella, Saffron Arancinis and Margarita Pizza.
8500 Beverly Blvd., Suite 115, michaelmina.net/restaurants/southern-california/calmare, @calmarerestaurant
The Crack Shack
Located at Westfield Century City mall, The Crack Shack is a gourmet fried chicken concept is ideal for a post-shopping drink. Sit out on the patio and enjoy their popular spritz cocktail, the Let’s Get Fizzical, made with Aperol, prosecco, and an orange twist. Happy Hour runs from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m which includes $4 off this specialty and some delicious Crack snacks like Fried Pickles, Chicken Lollipops, and Spicy Biscuit Sliders.
10250 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles, Crackshack.com, @getcrackshacked
Conservatory
At Conservatory, West Hollywood’s new chic three-in-one concept, you’ll find not one but three spritzes on the menu. During Twilight Hours, 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.. the street level Café at Conservatory switches from serving up Verve Coffee pastries and sandwiches to cocktails and nibbles. Take advantage of “The Spritz Trail,” a flight-like selection of Amaris from Italy, Switzerland, France and the United States. Each is crafted with sparkling water, prosecco and served with an orange wedge and a Castelvetrano olive. A weekly spritz cocktail is also offered at weekend brunch as well as another on the main bar menu.
8289 Santa Monica Boulevard, West Hollywood, Conservatoryweho.com, @eatconservatory
Grain
Don’t let the name fool you. Grain, the hidden whiskey bar from “Top Chef” Winner Brooke Williamson, is much more diverse than its moniker implies. Nestled in the beachside four-in-one concept Playa Provisions, Grain recently launched a brand new spring menu which includes the King Beach Spritz. An exceptionally refreshing version of the classic, the cocktail is made with cucumber vodka, Aperol, carrot juice, simple syrup, lemon, black lemon bitters and cava.
119 Culver Blvd., Playa Del Rey. Playaprovisions.com, @grainwhiskeybar
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