by InTrieste
Everyone loves a good Negroni and it truly is experiencing a modern-day Renaissance. The drink has over a million hashtags on Instagram, a multitude of videos on TikTok, and plenty of variations. However, Negroni hasn’t always been so sought-after.
The Negroni’s origin story is a mixed one that has sparked debates. One account recalls it being created in the 1860s at Caffe Comparino in Milan, Italy as a spin on the classic Milano Torino. This drink was made from Campari and sweet vermouth, and something Americans often ordered. However, they would ask for a splash of soda water.
The drink became so popular among them that it was renamed the ‘Americano’. But the most popular origin story comes from a Count in 1919 Florence. Count Camillo Negroni (1868-1934) was a regular customer at Caffe Casoni in Florence (now known as Caffe Giacosa). He asked the bartender, Forsco Scarselli, to enhance his favorite cocktail— the Americano.
Scarselli decided to replace the soda water with gin and the lemon slice with an orange slice, thus producing the Negroni. Soon after, the Negroni family created their own distillery and made a bottled version called Antico Negroni 1919.
Although popular in Italy, the Negroni wasn’t as well known around the world. Popularity didn’t take off until Orson Welles traveled to Rome in 1947. He tried a Negroni and told the Coschocton Tribune: “The bitters are excellent for your liver; the gin is bad for you. They balance each other.” Since then, the Negroni has had a slow and steady rise.
This simple, once underrated drink has taken the world by storm and has now become a staple cocktail.
But, for those in Trieste, where is the best place to get one?
- Caffè degli Specchi: Nowhere in Trieste gives a more festive feeling than Piazza Unità. So, naturally, the veranda of Caffè degli Specchi is the perfect place to enjoy the scenery with a Negroni in hand. And if the Bora blows, head inside where the chocolate treats are aplenty.
- Mor Cocktail Bar: Easily one of the best cocktail bars in the city, Mor Cocktail Bar features a mix of experimental cocktails focused on unique ingredients and unexpected combinations, and taste testing a few will certainly leave you merry. Try their Negroni sbagliato, for a twist.
- Antico Caffè San Marco: On rainy days, Antico Caffè San Marco is the ideal spot to cuddle up with a good book (or copy of the InTrieste Spring Issue!) or catch up with friends over a, yes, Negroni.
- Eataly: Not only can you enjoy an evening Negroni looking out over the lights on the water, but at Eataly you can also shop for the best Italian treats – food and wine.
- Antico Caffè Torinese: Classy and cool, the Negorini drink matches this particular caffe’s atmosphere. For an added twist, sit outside and people watch while you’re enjoying your drink.
- The Modernist Bistro: The quirkiest option from the list, The Modernist Bistrò, with its concept of sharing, is inspired by the new York clubs, perfect for a cup of coffee, business lunch, aperitivo or dinner accompanied by a DJ set. It is known for its tasty cocktails— such as the Negroni.
