An inside guide to the best eats, sweets, and more in Italy's fashion capital
While I won't claim to be an expert on Milan, having recently lived there for nearly a year, I do feel that I can confidently provide a guide to some of the best spots.
I'm excited to share a taste of my Milano with you. And though it certainly doesn't cover everything, I'd say it's a pretty well-rounded introduction to the city's offerings, allowing you to explore the various neighborhoods of this unique Italian city.
What do I mean by unique? If you've ever been to other parts of Italy, you know that while every city is different, they all tend to have a sort of old world charm (that we lack in the US). Milan feels quite "modern" in comparison, so if you're expecting it to look anything like Rome or Florence, you might be disappointed. But that isn't to say the city isn't beautiful or historically and culturally rich. Milan boasts a variety of architectural styles, including fascist structures (from the days of Mussolini) and modern skyscrapers in the city's financial district. You will also be enchanted by neighborhoods like Brera with it's fairytale-like buildings and pristine cobblestone streets lined with high-end shops. This juxtaposition of old and new is something I really love about the city.
Additionally, Milan’s seemingly unlimited affordable and oftentimes free sources of entertainment guarantee you’ll always have something fun to do. Milan has tons of great museums and hosts some of Italy's best events. For instance, there is a themed week for almost everything. Fashion Week, Design Week, Digital Week, Piano City ... the list goes on.
Lastly, an added benefit to Milan's modernity is the public transportation. It's perfect for getting around all parts of the city and it actually runs on time (I waited over 40 minutes for a bus in Rome that claimed to be arriving in 5). Coming from LA, I truly envy Milan's walkability and ease of getting around without a car.
For the most part, things are pretty orderly in Milan, which made living there a whole lot easier. In the end, it's still Italy, and getting anything done usually takes much longer than it needs to. But when in Rome... I mean Milan ... I guess that's just one of the sacrifices of la bella vita.
So without further adieu --
My little black book to the places that make Milan so delectable.
COFFEE
If you've ever spent some time in Italy, you know that Italians LOVE coffee. While coffee culture differs from what us Americans are accustomed to (a latte/cappuccino after 11 am is frowned upon), Italians are just as, if not more addicted to their daily cup of joe, or should I say morning shot of espresso (and afternoon). I'm partial to my morning cappuccino, which pairs perfectly with a pastry.
My personal favorite spot to grab coffee is ORSONERO (you even have the option to get it iced! -- which is definitely NOT a thing in Italy).
For a taste of quintessential Milanese style in the heart of Milan, head to Giacomo Caffe. Aside from the quality they provide, the space itself is what makes taking a coffee break here so special. You feel instantly chic and intellectual just by stepping foot into this charming establishment.
LUNCH
With 6 locations in the city (bistrot, bakery, etc.), the local Giacomo eateries seem to be an institution in Milan. I've had the pleasure of sipping coffee and nibbling on pastries at their cafe, and having perhaps my favorite meal in Milan at their restaurant, Ristorante da Giacomo. If you are a fiend for gorgeous interiors, you're sure to admire the pastel painted walls and patterned floor tiles while you're twirling your pasta and savoring fresh seafood dishes.
Potafiori is the perfect spot to catch-up with friends, surrounded by larger than life flower arrangements and expertly curated items for the home. Their healthy, organic lunch buffet is a delightful steal in the upscale city.
For gourmet pastries, look no further than Pavé. Although the space feels a little more like a hipster haven in San Francisco or Los Angeles than an Italian patisserie, I personally prefer their selection of goods to the traditional shops in Milan.
If you're looking for the most instagrammable spots, chances are you've already heard of Pasticceria Marchesi. A visit to their Galleria Vittorio Emmanuele location is sure to make all your childhood princess dreams come true. And with its rich history, this pasticceria is a Milanese institution.
I'm disappointed to have only discovered Gelateria Paganelli during my last couple months in Milan. I can easily say it's my favorite gelato shop in the city, and lucky for me that my favorite fruits were in season at the time. This spot is an absolute MUST.
APERITIVO
What is aperitivo? Perhaps my favorite Italian custom! It's often compared to the American happy hour... but in reality quite different. I would say it's closer to the concept of Spanish tapas. It's intended to be a pre-dinner drink that comes with small snacks. And while it's not traditionally intended to replace your meal, you'll find some places offer a large all you can eat spread.
Fonderie Milanese has one of the better quality all you can eat aperitivos. But the real reason I love coming here is the space. Don't forget to make reservations, and if you're lucky you'll be able to book a table in the courtyard (weather permitting).
PRINCI is a Milan bakery chain that now has locations in the US and abroad. They also happen to have a nice aperitivo at their Moscova location, where you'll find a variety of focaccia pizzas, pasta salads, and veggies.
PIZZA
There's always a line at Marghe and for good reason. Simple, seasonal, fresh. You really can't go wrong.
Despite my lengthy stay in Italy, I still find it strange that Italians typically order their own pizza (not to share). How do you eat an entire pizza by yourself? Other than it being incredibly filling, wouldn't you want a little variety? I personally like to share a pizza along with a couple other dishes to split with the table. But maybe that's just me. You do you!
CHEAP EATS
De Santis, a narrow, unassuming, sandwich shop on Corso Magenta, offers quality paninis and a huge variety to choose from. I suggest trying their artichoke spread.
At Miscusi you'll find solid homemade pasta dishes at a fair price. They're all completely customizable. You pick your sauce, pasta, toppings, and voila!
NON-ITALIAN
When you’ve had enough pasta and pizza to fill your hearts’s content, head over to Tokyo Table near the Navigli canals. Enjoy authentic Japanese flavors at this casual, modern eatery - pro tip: go for their weekday lunch buffet
If like me, you're always in the mood for Mediterranean, Nun is the place to go. I'm drooling thinking about their fried eggplant sandwich.
Hygge - Tucked away on a quiet corner off a busy street, this Danish inspired cafe is the ultimate hideaway from the city's distractions. Check out their weekend brunch and snag a seat in their intimate, hidden nook.
DRINKS
For cozy vibes (akin to the Danish "hygge") and great cocktails, head to
B Cafe. While you're there, try one of their cured meat and cheese boards. It's the ultimate spot to sit down, relax, and chat for hours.
Right on the Navigli canals, Mag Cafe is a tiny, but super cool and intimate bar with quirky and effortless charm.
Un Posto a Milano is a bucolic oasis in this sprawling urban town. The outdoor garden is the perfect spot to enjoy a sunset spritz. You'll almost forget you're in the middle of a busy city.
SHOPS
Although I'll be covering shops in part 2 of my Milan City Guide, I figured this post should include some tasty shopping recommendations. I oftentimes find that the best gifts or souvenirs are those you can eat.
My favorite place to pick up gifts in the city are at the top floor of Rinascente, the department store's dedicated food hall with an excellent view of the Duomo. Eataly is also a good option if you don't already have one in your hometown (New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Boston, Las Vegas).
EXTRA
Stepping into Milan's historic gourmet deli is almost like taking a field trip back in time. Peck has been around since 1883, and you'll find there are still the regulars from an older generation shopping for their staples, all while elegantly dressed and sporting perfectly salon-coiffed hair. A true taste of Milan would be incomplete without a visit to its iconic deli.
Stay tuned for Part 2, in which I'll cover the best things to see and do in the city!
