From growing up in Napoli to building a life in Milan, Head Concierge Gianluca Pelella shares the local favourites and much-loved dining spots he returns to time and again.
“Milan is a beautiful city with many food choices. There are always new restaurant, so you have something different to try each day”
Gianluca’s 5 favourite dining spots:
Date night favourites
Italy is celebrated for its romance and you are spoilt for choice when it comes to romantic venues in Milan. Take my personal favourite, Casa Fiorichiari – renowned for its delicious Mediterranean cuisine – the restaurant’s relaxed atmosphere is ideal for lowkey romantics. For dinner with a view, Giacomo Arengario opens its beautiful terrace overlooking the Duomo di Milano in the summer months. As Milan is the city for fashion, you can’t miss the new Palazzo Fendi - the top three floors are devoted to Langosteria Montenapoleone, where you can share a cocktail and super fresh seafood overlooking the Milanese skyline after an afternoon shopping. It’s wonderful for a special occasion, or alternatively Nobu Milano, which serves Japanese dining with a Peruvian influence.
La Dolce Notte
A must-visit for wine connoisseurs, Trattoria Lazzati is a modern Milanese restaurant with an incredible wine list, their sommelier is so knowledgeable, I could talk to him for hours. The Roof Milano is the place to go for aperitivo accompanied by panoramic views - on a clear day, you might even catch a glimpse of the Alps. For a signature Negroni Sbagliato, head to Bar Basso - it’s where it was invented, so of course you have to try it there!
Timeless Milan
Milan’s classic food scene is second to none. For traditional ossobuco or cotoletta cooked in butter, visit the historic Antica Trattoria della Pesa. And of course, Milan wouldn't be Milan with panettone - beloved all over the world, but invented right here. I’d always recommend Pasticceria Cova or Pasticceria Marchesi, Milan’s oldest pastry shop - best paired with an espresso in the morning. Another is Luini, they’ve been open since 1888 and introduced the traditional Puglian panzerotti - a deep-fried savoury pastry stuffed with meat or cheese - to the people of Milan, which is now a firm favourite. They're great for food on the go, whilst you’re exploring the city.
For a family favourite
For my guests travelling with young families, I recommend Cantina della Vetra. It’s a traditional Italian and Milanese restaurant near Via Torino, with a casual atmosphere. There is a little park in front for children to play while their parents dine - so everybody wins. I always recommend their risotto, they’re famous for it.
The best for music
Milan has some wonderful music venues such as IT Maison, which is open every day with live music or DJ sets, perfect for a lively dinner or late-night party vibe. The Navigli area is great for aperitifs and just wandering around until you find somewhere you like to look of. La Bullona is somewhere I often go to with friends - it’s filled with amazing art by renowned international artists which creates a great vibe. They have interesting cocktails, great food - especially their seafood, and good energy and music – it’s very fun and lively. But Just Me Milan is my top choice for those looking for a full night out - go for a late dinner and find yourself dancing until 5am!
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Milan
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Milan
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Address
Milan