Aperitivo is the traditional way for Italians to wind down the afternoon – a chance to sip on cocktails and nibble on an accompanying (often complimentary) side dish, while discussing the day’s events.

But now Sydneysiders can enjoy the same tradition with the arrival of Aperitivo to Bacco Osteria e Espresso. From Wednesday to Friday, the Bacco Espresso bar will be serving up sidewalk aperitivo in the CBD’s Ash Lane. From 4-9pm Chefs Scott Williams and Andrew Cibej (who is the man behind VINI and 121BC Enoteca) will be serving up complimentary seasonal snacks to partner with a tipple.

Every wine or spritz ordered will be accompanied by dishes that will change daily and could include pickled sardines, grilled and served with aioli and radish; jaffles of Taleggio and ‘nduja; veal and pork meatballs with pickled chilli and ricotta salata; arancini of smoked ham and cheese and spicy salami chips. There will also be a regional focus to the aperitivo, with a monthly exploration of different regions of Italy (and their produce) from Tuscany to Puglia and Umbria.

“Aperitivo was always part of my original vision for Bacco,” says Cibej. “The space caters to those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the rest of the city and wanting to try some interesting wines not normally available to the general public.

“Bacco is a great place to unwind after a long day in the office or debrief after some retail therapy. Given our location we’re already seeing people dropping in before dinner and the pre-theatre crowd have really embraced what we’re doing,” he continues.

Just like the dish selection will change daily, so too will the wine. Wines by the glass are set to focus on the offerings available from smaller, boutique Italian vineyards. Classic Italian cocktails will accompany, from spritz to negroni and Americano.