"L'apéro" isn't a drink — it's an institution. Here's how to host and attend like a Parisian.
Apéro is strictly pre-dinner, typically 6–8 PM. Arriving on time is fine (unusual in France). If it stretches past 9 PM, you've unofficially become dinner — have something to contribute.
Arrive with chips ("chips"), olives, or a bottle of wine or pétillant. Showing up empty-handed once is forgiven. Twice is noticed. The gesture, not the price, matters.
The French debate — it's a national sport. At apéro, expect frank discussions on politics, philosophy, and society. Agreeing too readily is boring; a well-argued counter-point is respected.