Fernet-Branca is a curious alcoholic beverage. There is really no other drink like Fernet, which is the more common name for the bitter, black beverage. While there is a sense of mystery and mystique around the Italian drink, that does not stop many interested individuals from falling in love with it.

At Puerto La Boca in Little Italy, we are proud to serve Fernet-Branca to our customers. However, many people have asked us how exactly did Fernet make its way from Italy to America, and this question led us to investigate the history of the beverage.

What is Fernet?

Before we delve into the history of the Italian beverage, it is important to first distinguish what Fernet is. Fernet is actually an amaro, which is a type of bitter spirit. It has a very strong scent and is dark black in color. Fernet is a digestif, which is a beverage that is known to soothe upset stomachs and also help nurse a hangover. It contains a mix of nearly 40 different roots, herbs, and other natural compounds, giving the drink its unique flavor and taste. Fernet is usually either mixed with soda, with most going with a cola of some kind, or enjoyed on its own as an after-dinner digestif.

When Did Fernet First Come to America?

Most experts believe that Fernet first made its way to America in the 1800s, with the Italian import mostly finding its way to San Francisco. In San Francisco, Fernet was originally touted as a cure for cholera, a bacterial disease that was wreaking havoc in the region at the time. Therefore, many in San Francisco clamored for the beverage to help treat the symptoms of the disease.

How Did Fernet Gain Popularity?

Fernet was mostly used as a medicine in the 1800s, although many noted the alcoholic effects of the beverage almost immediately. Fernet really exploded in popularity in the United States during Prohibition, which was the ban on alcohol that lasted from 1920 to 1933. Since Fernet was labeled as medicine for cholera, it was still legal during the prohibition era. During this time, many people desperate for a drink would simply go to the pharmacy or doctor and complain of cholera, and then enjoy a nice bottle of Fernet.

The 1990s Fernet Boom

In the 1990s, Fernet had an unexplained surge in popularity. All of the sudden, seemingly every bartender in San Francisco offered Fernet or a Fernet cocktail to interested patrons. The boom in popularity could be attributed to the rise of craft cocktails and bars in the 1990s, although this cannot be verified. Regardless, the increase in interest in Fernet in San Francisco led to the beverage slowly making its way throughout the United States, and now Fernet can be found at bars across the country.

Enjoy Fernet-Branca at Puerto La Boca in San Diego

While Fernet-Branca originated in Italy, it may be even more popular in Argentina. Argentinians love Fernet, and it is one of the most popular cocktails at nightclubs in Buenos Aires. Puerto La Boca in Little Italy is the most authentic Argentinian restaurant in San Diego, and we are proud to offer Fernet to all of our customers.

If you are interested in trying Fernet-Branca alongside Argentinian classics like empanadas or steak, contact Puerto La Boca today by calling (619) 234-4900.