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Italian culture means many things, but in particular, food. You will see in many of the articles and videos that you can find on my YouTube channel, Italy Unveiled, that every region and often cities have their own particular dish. Milano, has two of the most famous, in the USA such as Risotto alla Milanese (saffron risotto) and Cotoletta alla Milanese (breaded meat).
In this mini guide, I will try to give you some of the most delicious places where you can eat the classic recipes, but because Milano is an international city, I will also introduce you to different kinds of food from various regions and even other countries
Breakfast: A Morning Delight
Your day in Milan begins with a hearty breakfast. Milan offers a variety of options to kickstart your morning with delicious flavors.
Pavè – Porta Venezia is a great choice for a morning pick-me-up. Located at Via Felice Casati, 27, this trendy spot is renowned for its high-quality breakfast offerings. Indulge in their excellent pastries and top-notch coffee in a cozy atmosphere.
If you find yourself in the Nolo district, Fòla on Via Varanini 12 is a modern pastry shop frequented by the city’s young and alternative crowd. Enjoy their unique pastries and a delightful start to your day.
For a convenient breakfast near the central station, head to Mercato Centrale at Via Sammartini 2. This spacious market offers a variety of high-quality food stands, including the famous Pasticceria La Martesana .
It’s an ideal stop for both arrivals and departures.
Gelsomina Repubblica, located at Via Tenca 5, offers a wide range of breakfast options. This spacious venue is perfect for relaxing and indulging in a variety of treats, from Venetian pastries to cheesecake and more.
For a taste of Milan’s best bread, visit Panificio Longoni – Porta Romana at Via Tiraboschi 19. With a pergola-covered outdoor seating area, you can enjoy their wonderful baked goods in a cozy setting.
Lunch: Midday Delights
After a morning of exploring Milan’s attractions, it’s time for a satisfying lunch. Milan’s dining scene offers a range of options to suit your midday cravings.
Giacomo Rosticceria – Risorgimento, located at Via Pasquale Sottocorno, 36, offers a beautiful Liberty-style courtyard where you can enjoy a unique lunch experience. Specializing in gastronomic dishes, their menu includes items like fried mixed seafood, pappa al pomodoro, tonnarello alla gricia, and more.
Trattoria Madonnina – Ticinese, situated at Via Gentilino 6, is a historic Milanese trattoria that has retained its traditional charm. The menu features Milanese classics such as risotto all’ossobuco and cotoletta alla milanese.
Da Berti – Gae Aulenti, located at Via Francesco Algarotti, is a classic Milanese restaurant with a history dating back to 1866. It has been completely renovated and offers all the traditional dishes of Milanese cuisine in an elegant yet unpretentious atmosphere.
Trattoria Milanese dal 1933 – Centro, at Via Santa Marta 11, provides a genuine taste of Milanese cuisine. With closely spaced tables and a bustling atmosphere, it’s an excellent place to try their famous costoletta among other traditional dishes.
Now, with a complete guide to Milan’s culinary scene, you’re well-prepared to embark on a weekend filled with delicious breakfasts, satisfying lunches, indulgent dinners, and delightful after-dinner drinks. Enjoy your gastronomic adventure in Milan!
But you can’t leave Milano if you don’t try its most famous panzerotti. (calzone) only a few steps from Piazza Duomo stop at Luini! Luini, a renowned bakery that has been serving mouthwatering panzerotti for decades. These delectable stuffed calzones are a Milanese specialty, and Luini is a local institution from 1888. I remember like it was yesterday when finished class in high school I was going to get a panzerotto from Luini!
Aperitivo: A Milanese Tradition
Milan is the birthplace of the famous drink Negroni Sbagliato, and what better way to start your weekend than with an aperitivo? Visit Bar Basso on Via Plinio 39, where this iconic cocktail was invented. Join the locals and enjoy a Negroni or other classic cocktails while savoring delectable snacks.
How many times I’ve been there with my family, I absolutely love Bar Basso!
For a more upscale experience, head to Lùbar near Palestro. This chic bar and restaurant, nestled in the Pac (Padiglione d’Arte Contemporanea), attracts an international crowd. The charming garden and eighteenth-century greenhouse provide a unique setting for your aperitivo.
Osteria alla Concorrenza in Porta Venezia is an enoteca (wine bar) of exceptional quality. Established by Diego Rossi of Trippa, it offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, where you can sip natural wines and sample unconventional dishes made from top-quality ingredients.
Campari, the renowned Italian aperitif, boasts a rich history dating back to the late 19th century. It all began at its famous location, which remains unchanged to this day, situated at the corner of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, overlooking Piazza del Duomo. Don’t miss this historical and unique piece of Milan’s heritage. Camparino not only serves aperitivo but also offers a full gastronomic experience, skillfully merging tradition and modernity in the heart of the city.
If you’re looking for one of the best views of the city, you can go on the Aperol terrace in Piazza Duomo,
Dinner: A Feast for the Senses
As the sun sets, Milan’s dining scene comes alive with options to satisfy every palate. Whether you’re craving classic Italian dishes or innovative fusion cuisine, Milan has it all.
Dry Pizza e Cocktail in Brera is the place to be for pizza lovers. Crafted by Lorenzo Sirabella, a student of the renowned Enzo Coccia, the pizza here is top-notch. This trendy spot is often filled with young patrons enjoying both quality pizza and fantastic cocktails.
For a taste of contemporary Milanese cuisine, make a reservation at Ratanà in the Isola district. Chef Giovanni Traversone maintains high standards of quality in a warm and inviting setting. Their signature dish, risotto, is a must-try.
Masuelli San Marco, located in Porta Vittoria, is one of Milan’s timeless restaurants. It’s famous for its traditional Lombard and Piedmontese cuisine with a modern twist. Be sure to savor their exquisite cotolette and agnolotti al plìn.
If you’re in the mood for something innovative and unique, visit Røst in Porta Venezia. This modern bistro offers a menu without traditional courses, encouraging sharing dishes made from the finest ingredients. The simplicity and complexity of their dishes make for a memorable dining experience.
Bentoteca San Vittore, located at Via San Calocero 3, brings an international twist to Milan’s dining scene. This Japanese restaurant, owned by Yoji Tokuyoshi, former sous chef of Bottura, offers a fusion of high-quality Japanese cuisine with Milanese influences. Don’t miss out on their creative and delicious dishes.
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After-Dinner Delights
After indulging in a sumptuous dinner, your night in Milan is far from over. The city offers a range of options for post-dinner entertainment.
Mag Cafè in Navigli is known for its modern cocktail bar experience. It attracts a more sophisticated and discerning crowd compared to the bustling Navigli nightlife.
Lacerba, located near Porta Romana, is a futuristic restaurant and cocktail bar known for its colorful and playful atmosphere. It’s a perfect place to continue your evening with creative cocktails.
Rita Cocktails Navigli, with its commitment to high-quality mixology, has been a go-to spot for over two decades. Situated amid the lively Navigli district, it offers cocktails made with fresh fruits and vegetables and has playful Milanese-themed names for its drinks.
Nora was drunk Lambrate is a young and carefully curated cocktail bar. It focuses on absinthe and offers quality snacks such as affordable oysters and Portuguese canned fish.
For a luxurious and breathtaking experience, consider Ceresio 7. This restaurant and American bar boasts a stunning view of Milan’s skyline from two terraces overlooking a swimming pool. While the signature drinks may come at a premium, the ambiance and views are worth it.
In Conclusion
A weekend in Milan is not just a visual feast for art and fashion lovers; it’s a culinary journey waiting to be explored. From traditional Italian dishes to innovative fusion cuisine, Milan’s restaurants and bars offer an array of experiences that cater to every taste. So, immerse yourself in Milan’s culture, art, and, most importantly, its flavors. Buon appetito!
