Rome with a View Cocktail Recipe

If you’re looking for a unique Italian cocktail, look no further than the Rome with a View Cocktail! Made with Italian Campari, dry vermouth, lime juice, simple syrup, and soda water, you’ll love this cross between a Tom Collins and the classic Americano cocktail!

One of my favorite bars in Charleston, The Gin Joint, has a unique menu, where you choose two adjectives from the bartender’s choice section of their cocktail menu. One night, I chose bitter and tart, and I was given a Rome with a View cocktail. Their version used Aperol instead of the traditional Campari, but it was a drink that I instantly fell in love with and had to share on the blog. 

If you love Campari paired with sweet and sour ingredients, you should try my Enzoni Cocktail.

Refreshing – The blend of bitter, sour, and sweet flavors topped with bubbly effervescence makes for a super refreshing drink that is perfect for a warm day or summer picnic!

Low ABV – If you’re looking for a drink that is lower in alcohol, this is the drink for you! It’s great for the social aspect of a cocktail party without the effects that stronger cocktails have.

Visually stunning – The deep red hue of Campari is diluted down into a beautiful red-pink color that is sure to impress anyone that you serve it to.

This cocktail is an aperitif (or before dinner drink) that first popped up in 2008 from mixologist, Michael McIlroy of Milk and Honey in New York City. It’s been described as a cross between a Collins and an Americano.

Traditionally, it is made with Campari, but the first time I encountered it – it was made with Aperol instead of Campari and there was no bubbly soda water. Now that I’ve had two versions, I have to say that I prefer the original just a little more. 

Campari – You can find Campari at just about any liquor store these days. 

Dry vermouth – Use what you like or have on hand. I used Dolin Vermouth De Chambery Dry. 

Lime juice – Use freshly squeezed citrus juice whenever possible. It always tastes better fresh. You can substitute lemon juice just as well. 

Simple syrup – While you can buy simple syrup, it’s far easier and cheaper to make – simply heat equal parts sugar and water in the microwave or on the stovetop in a small saucepan until the sugar completely dissolves and the solution is clear. Allow to cool to room temp and keep in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.

Soda water – Seltzer or club soda works just fine. I will often use my SodaStream to make my own seltzer. 

Garnishes – I used a lime wedge, but an orange slice is a common garnish. 

Step 1: Add the Campari, dry vermouth, lime juice, and simple syrup to an empty cocktail shaker.

Step 2: Add ice cubes and shake until well chilled. Strain into a highball glass – I used my Viski Zenith Deco highball glasses.

Step 3: Top with soda water. Give it a quick stir and garnish with a lime wedge, if desired.

Refrigerate your dry and sweet vermouth so they stay fresh longer. I also buy in half-size bottles so there is less to go through before the taste begins to degrade.

For a sweeter cocktail, simply increase the amount of syrup or add a splash of orange juice. If you want a more sour cocktail, increase the lime juice.

Use Aperol instead of Campari for a sweeter bitter orange flavor. I recommend to consider reducing the simple syrup if you use Aperol as it is sweeter than Campari. 

Can I make a batch or pitcher of the Rome with a View Cocktail for a crowd? Can I do that in advance?

Absolutely! The Rome with a View is perfect for batching. Simply, multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need and mix everything except the soda water in a large pitcher. Chill up to 1 day in advance.

Avoid adding ice directly to the pitcher to prevent dilution. Divide the base amongst cocktail glasses filled with ice, and top with the soda water individually just before serving to keep it fresh and fizzy. I have measurements for a batch of 8 in the recipe card notes to make it easier for you!

Is Campari and Aperol the same thing?

No, they’re not. In a nut shell, Campari is more bitter and less sweet than Aperol. If want a deep dive on their differences, check out my post comparing Campari vs. Aperol.

Should I refrigerate Campari?

It’s not necessary. Campari, like most spirits, is stable at room temperature. However, chilling it won’t harm it and can make for a cooler, more refreshing cocktail if that’s your preference.