A Cultural Experience: The Aperitvo Club
Written By Kristin Muir
For those who have a taste for Tuscany and Italian spirits, you may have missed a new, hidden gem added to Market Square that satisfies your needs! Nestled in the back of the Market Street Grocery lies the newly transformed wine bar, The Aperitvo Club.
Frequent customers of the grocery store may recall the name Market Street Grocery Wine Bar when picturing the back of the beloved grocery store. However, in June 2024, the wine bar rebranded into The Aperitivo Club, stocked with a variety of Italian wines and a beautiful array of cocktails on their menu!
The wine bar’s new name originates in the Italian tradition, Aperitivo, meaning “to open” or “begin” your evening experience. While some compare the tradition to American’s happy hour, The Aperitivo Club describes it as “a cultural experience that embodies the essence of socialization, relaxation, and culinary delight.”
Walking into the back of the grocery, you are greeted with an elegant yet inviting room, decorated head to toe with mid-century decor. Being newly owned by Emerson’s restaurant upstairs, The Aperitivo does not fail to meet customers’ comfort preferences. While seating is limited, guests can choose from open, sociable spots at the bar to quaint seating at tables.
This wine bar offers an assortment of wine, originating from iconic wineries in Abruzzo, Alba, and Sicily. If red and white wine isn’t your style, indulge in beautifully crafted prosecco and Italian beer from Veneto, Italy!
While the wine is a must-have while visiting The Aperitvo, the real showstopper from our visit was their cocktail menu. With over a dozen authentic Italian cocktails to choose from, this new bar offers a remarkable experience by combining traditional recipes with Italian ingredients from the Tuscan region! Some stars on the menu include classics like the Garibaldi Flip and Serrano Sour, and even a taste of Pittsburgh with the Market Street Spritz.
If wine and cocktails aren’t your style, Aperitivo offers an array collection of small bites, Pennsylvanian beers, and even non-alcoholic cocktails for everyone to enjoy!
So whether you’re a connoisseur of Italian spirits or simply seeking a sweet escape to Tuscany, don’t miss out on this hidden gem!
The Aperitivo Club is now open Thursdays through Saturdays from 4-9 pm at 435 Market Street in Market Square.
