Now Newton-ians can unwind as the Italians do at da LaPosta‘s new Aperitivo Hour every Thursday through Saturday from 4:00 to 6:00pm. Chef-owner Mario LaPosta picked up a few traditions during his time in Rome (while he was learning to make his amazing pizzas), including the afternoon ritual of sipping a low-alcohol cocktail and grazing on some tasty light bites.

Make a reservation here or just pop in to the Washington Street eatery to try an easy-to-sip libation like the Milano-Torino (Martini Rosso, Campari) or a Figurati (Lambrusco, Chambord, Peychaud’s Bitters). You can tide yourself over between lunch and dinner with nibbles like Olive “all’Ascolana” (Lightly Fried stuffed with Fennel Sausage) and Nonna’s Polpettine (Beef Meatballs, Pomodoro, Smoked Ricotta Salata), or whatever strikes your fancy – take a spin through the menu below to whet your appetite.

If you have Qs give them a call at 617.964.2665.