Cinquanta – Spirito Italiano has reinvented the idea of the neighbourhood bar, transforming a provincial town setting into one of Italy’s most celebrated cocktail destinations. Inspired by the golden era of 1950s Italy, when bars became symbols of rebirth and social connection, the team has created a venue that feels both nostalgic and boldly modern. Every detail here honours that legacy – from its theatrical multi-level design with zoned seating and velvet drapes, to a central island bar that serves as the heart of the room. All seating faces towards this stage-like counter, ensuring a sense of shared experience.

The bar’s style is playful and minimalist, rooted in Italian conviviality but layered with international flair. Classics are reimagined with vibrant local ingredients, and garnishes are pared back in favour of drinks that speak for themselves. Whether served to regulars in the intimate indoor spaces or to guests enjoying the expansive outdoor setup, cocktails at Cinquanta begin with story first, then liquid. Their latest menu, ‘Baropoli’, explores the bar as the new “polis” – a place where commerce, community, and culture intersect – and is physically designed to resemble a supermarket flyer. Each drink within its four sections is inspired by markets or merchant stories, including a non-alcoholic range themed on the local Pagani fruit and vegetable market.

Menus here are always driven by a structured but highly collaborative creative process. After the management team sets the theme, every team member contributes story ideas, which are later refined into drinks, garnishes, or service elements. From development to launch, each cocktail is rigorously tested and accompanied by a considered narrative, while visual design, photo shoots, and launch events are used to further immerse guests in the theme. Drinks are supported by one of the most advanced labs in the region, where the team creates cordials, syrups and distillates using seasonal ingredients, a rotovap, centrifuge, fermenters, and more.

Sustainability is embedded throughout the operation, from local sourcing to thoughtful water and ice production. A reverse osmosis system purifies the drinking and cocktail water; house-made ice is cut and shaped in multiple sizes, and a dedicated staff member oversees its production. In fact, Cinquanta will soon open a 400m² B2B ice facility.

More than half of the 28-strong team has been with Cinquanta since opening in 2021, despite an initially limited hospitality talent pool. Led by two Lyan Group alumni, the bar’s one-to-one mentorship system and horizontal management structure have proven transformative. Each experienced bartender was paired with a novice, who now mentors others. Everyone contributes to menu ideas and service rituals – from the dishwasher to the bar manager.

Cinquanta is a space where hospitality always trumps service – a venue driven by care, culture, and connection. It’s no surprise they’ve been named Best Bar Team in Italy (2023) and recognised among the top 10 teams in Europe.