Tucked away behind a wall of climbing ivy on Uptown Park Boulevard, the luxurious Hotel Granduca sits quietly regal, its discreet presence often mistaken for a private residence or apartment complex. But step inside this boutique Galleria-area hotel, and you’re greeted by a scene right out of Italy: Warm, rust-colored walls, period furniture covered in rich brocade and antique suits of armor greet you in the lobby entrance.

The hotel’s fine-dining Italian restaurant, Restaurant Cavour, is nestled against a salt-water pool (complete with cabanas) and a  lush outdoor courtyard. The scene for weddings and other special events, the poolside patio was the setting for a kickoff event last week to introduce Hotel Granduca’s new Aperitivo program at the hotel bar.

In Italy, Aperitivo is part of the classic evening meal structure, essentially a pre-dinner drink often enjoyed with snacks and small canapes like olives, crostini and the like. The kick-off event showcased the bounty that will be on offer as part of the hotel’s Aperitivo program. Three types of chilled soups — tomato gazpacho, green gazpacho and chilled grape and almond soup — were offered to guests, along with a large assortment of crostini. A soft cheese crostini with caramelized onions and cured salmon and caviar crostini were big hits that night. Dry sausages and cheeses were artfully arranged, as were deviled eggs, skewers of artichoke hearts and crispy cheese fritters.

aperitivo

Cocktails, still wine and Prosecco were the beverages of choice, along with Granduca’s classic Italian spritz. Made of Aperol, Prosecco, a splash of club soda and a wedge of orange, the fizzy, bright orange-colored drink seemed to epitomize Italian cool.

“Thursday nights, I can totally see myself stopping here for a drink and some snacks,” a girlfriend of my said as we noshed on the spread of goods. There was even a server bearing a tray of cigars — definitely a nice service for those so inclined.

The Aperitivo program at Hotel Granduca officially began yesterday (September 5), and will be offered 5 to 8 pm every Thursday. With the purchase of a drink, guests will  have access to a buffet of Italian snacks similar to those offered at the kick-off event. It’s a fantastic deal and a great chance to experience a little bit of Italy right here in Houston.

HOTEL GRANDUCA, 1080 Uptown Park Blvd. near Post Oak Blvd., hotelgranduca.com