Negroni Week
By: Rosa Mendoza
As you make your weekend plans, here’s a quick look at the history of the Negroni, the philanthropic roots of Negroni Week, and a roundup of our favorite bars participating in this year’s festivities.
White Negroni @ Ordinary Pub in New Haven, CT (Photo by: Rosa Mendoza)
The Negroni
The Negroni — classic, Italian, strong, and bittersweet — is one of the most iconic cocktails in the world. Traditionally served as an aperitivo (from the Latin root aperire, meaning “to open”), meant to stimulate ones appetite before a meal. In recent years, this drink has taken center stage in the American market, as the national palate has grown more adventurous.
The first mention of the Negroni dates back to 1919, when Count Camillo Negroni is said to have asked his bartender, Fosco Scarselli, to strengthen his favorite drink — the Americano (Campari, sweet vermouth, and soda) — by swapping soda for gin. However, this story is contested by French-Puerto Rican Noel Negroni, a living descendant who insists no such count appears in his family tree. (A little more on that scandal here!)
Origin debates aside, Negroni Week has become as much a part of the drink’s story as the cocktail itself. Founded in 2013 by Imbibe Magazine, the event both celebrates the beloved Negroni and raises money for charity. To this day, restaurants and bars who participate select a cause to support for the week — and to that, we happily toast. All week long!
Here are some stellar programs participating this week in some of our favorite American cities:
Boston:
New Haven:
New York:
Philadelphia:
Savannah:
Tampa:
Miami: