Article written by contributor AV
Are there beautiful restaurants in Milan? Of course, there are, and plenty! Whether for the ambiance, the atmosphere, the service, or the dishes offered, Milan certainly doesn’t lack a selection of great places. From cocktail bars to cafes and restaurants, here are some of my favorites.
You can read this article in Italian here
Sogni Milano: Beauty in Sant’Agostino
Antique lanterns, velvet sofas, painted porcelain on the walls, candles, and wildflowers on the tables create an intimate and cozy atmosphere. My recommendation? Book a table in the veranda or settle in the elegant dining hall with a social table. On my 2024 restaurant wishlist for its seafood cuisine, I loved the opportunity to order numerous off-menu items prepared with the catch of the day. The sea urchin linguine and the scorpionfish paccheri were excellent, and you can’t leave the table without trying the rose cake accompanied by fresh cream.
Sogni
Via S. Calocero, 8 (M2 Sant’Agostino)
Giardino Cordusio: Lounge in Greenery
On the ground floor of Palazzo Venezia (now Hotel Cordusio Gran Meliá), sit back on sofas and armchairs, relaxing with an aperitif surrounded by lush plants, marble tables, and crystal chandeliers. Whether ordering a “signature” Negroni or a glass of bubbles, every drink is served with savory snacks and a stand featuring 4-5 finger foods. No need to worry about the rain—the courtyard has a skylight, providing an open-air feel.
Giardino Cordusio
Palazzo Cordusio Gran Meliá (M1 Cordusio)
The Magic of Rotonda Bistrò
Slow down near the Rotonda, especially if it’s the one on Via Besana. Surrounded by a large portico, the area has become an important exhibition venue with MUBA – Children’s Museum and its adjoining bistro inside the former church of San Michele. Open for breakfast, lunch, snacks, and dinner, the bistro is also ideal for Sunday brunch, featuring a menu enhanced by a must-try low-temperature cooked egg and the “trio” dish (risotto alla milanese, meatballs in sauce, and marinated salmon). Music lovers shouldn’t miss the live performances on the first Wednesday of every month.
Rotonda Bistrò
Via Besana 12 (M3 Porta Romana)
NAËVE: A Beautiful Patisserie in Brera
A new pastry shop with a cosmopolitan soul but a French flair. Elegantly decorated in pastel colors, it features a curvy pink counter by the entrance that catches the eye with its display of pastries. Alongside traditional viennoiserie and drinks, you’ll find babka, Japanese cakes, basque chocolate, cheesecake, as well as masala and matcha lattes, and yuzu lemonade. French influences are prominent too, with rare treats like tourteau fromagé and Parisian flan, alongside apple tarts, cannelés, and madeleines. Keep your card and E-Wallet handy as the place is cashless.
NAËVE
Via della Moscova, 51 (M2 Moscova)
Nik’s & Co: Restaurant and Cocktail Bar
The art of mixology in a New York-style cocktail bar, though we’re in Milan, near the Central Station. The 1920s-30s decor and the alluring drinks menu are inspired by the travels of Nik, an imaginary bartender who can traverse time and space. Alongside the drinks, the chef’s playful creations complete the experience. Standouts include “Kwood” (Jerusalem artichoke, watercress, and black truffle), inspired by Amii Stewart’s famous song, and the “Pacman” octopus. For a full experience, don’t miss the tasting menus.
Nik’s & CO
Via Giovanni Schiaparelli, 14 (M3 Sondrio)
Beautiful Spots in Milan: The List
Here’s a handy list to screenshot with more beautiful bars and restaurants in Milan:
- AL FRESCO – Via Savona, 50 (M2 Sant’Agostino)
- ANDREA APREA CAFFÉ – BISTROT – Corso Venezia, 52 presso Fondazione Luigi Rovati (M1 Porta Venezia)
- AUTEM – Via Serviliano Lattuada, 2 (M3 Porta Romana), qui la recensione completa
- CASA TOBAGO – Viale Papiniano 8 (Autobus 66)
- LA CORTE ROMANENGO – Via Caminadella, 23 (M2 Sant’Ambrogio)
- MOTELOMBROSO – Alzaia Naviglio Pavese, 256 (Autobus 79 e 46)
- NORAH WAS DRUNK – Via Nicola Antonio Porpora, 169 (M2 Lambrate)
- POTAFIORI – Via Salasco 17 (Tram 9), qui la recensione completa
- RIVOIRE – Via Formentini 9 (M2 Lanza) e Via Malpighi, 1 (M1 Porta Venezia)
- SISU – Via Gaudenzio Ferrari, 1 (Tram 2, 14)
- SURFER’S GARDEN – Piazza Caduti del Lavoro, 5 (Passante Milano Tibaldi)
- ZIZANIA MILANO – Via Celestino IV, 11 (Tram 3)
Have you ever been to these beautiful and Instagram-friendly spots in Milan? Let me know on Facebook or Instagram!
Feel like reading more? Here the best burgers in Milan, where to eat low cost in Milan, the best historic patisserie in town and… how to spend a weekend in Cinque Terre in Italy!
