Aperol, Prosecco, soda water, and orange is a delightful combination—no matter what the New York Times says. Here are five great places to indulge in this unfairly maligned drink all summer long.
All-Purpose
1250 9th St., NW; 79 Potomac Ave., SE
Both locations of the popular pizzeria offer $8 “O.G. spritzes” during happy hour at the bar (5:30 to 7 PM in Shaw; 5 to 7 PM in Navy Yard). The newer Southeast waterfront location also pours bottomless spritzes (as well as bellinis and other day drinks) during brunch for $21 with the purchase of a brunch specialty or pizza. Pick a table by the water or on the lovely rooftop terrace.
Centrolina
974 Palmer Alley NW
This chic Italian osteria and market in CityCenterDC lets you design a spritz the way you want. Choose from 10 vermouths and liqueurs (including, yes, Aperol) with soda or Prosecco and an orange twist. While you’re at it, throw in one of chef Amy Brandwein’s handmade pastas.
Little Coco’s
3907 14th St., NW
Stop by this Petworth joint from 5 to 7 PM, Monday through Thursday, to indulge in unlimited Aperol spritzes for $23 per person. Want more than just spritzes? OK, fine. The aperitivo hour deal also includes negronis, daiquiris, basil gimlets, and more as well as all-you-can-eat nibbles such as meatballs or green onion zeppoli.
Officina
1120 Maine Ave., SW
Take in waterfront views—spritz in hand, obvs—at Nick Stefanelli’s three-story Wharf cafe, trattoria, bakery, market, and wine shop. During aperitivo hour weekdays from 4 to 6 PM, $8 draft Aperol spritzes come with complimentary snacks.
Osteria Morini
301 Water St., SE
This Navy Yard Italian spot with waterfront patio serves a whole spritz menu. Find a riff on the classic (orange- and basil-infused Aperol, Cocchi Rosa vermouth, Prosecco) and a negroni sbagliato (Campari, Dolin sweet vermouth, Prosecco).
Jessica Sidman covers the people and trends behind D.C.’s food and drink scene. Before joining Washingtonian in July 2016, she was Food Editor and Young & Hungry columnist at Washington City Paper. She is a Colorado native and University of Pennsylvania grad.
Anna Spiegel covers the dining and drinking scene in her native DC. Prior to joining Washingtonian in 2010, she attended the French Culinary Institute and Columbia University’s MFA program in New York, and held various cooking and writing positions in NYC and in St. John, US Virgin Islands.
