Article written by contributor Giulia Minguzzi
It only took a few years of living away from home to realise one thing: in Milan, you never get bored. That’s exactly why I started exploring corners of the city I’d never seen before, always hoping to be surprised by what this vibrant metropolis has to offer. Every neighbourhood hides at least one quirky venue perfect for a night out with a twist – be it a cocktail bar in a deconsecrated church, a TV-series-themed burger joint, or a retro trattoria straight out of the ‘60s. In this article, you’ll find 7 (+7 bonus) spots to check out, complete with a handy list at the end to screenshot and keep. Enjoy!
Art Mall: Aperitivo and DJ Sets in an Art Gallery
Did you know that right in the centre of Milan, on Via Torino, there’s a venue where you can dance among hundreds of artworks? Somewhere between vintage and underground, Art Mall is an innovative art gallery geared toward young creatives, hosting private cultural events and showcasing emerging talent.
But that’s not all: it’s also a cocktail bar and nightclub—an ideal spot for a quirky night out, or even to throw a birthday or graduation party that’ll wow your guests. For €20 per person, you get an aperitivo buffet and a cocktail of your choice.
The venue features several rooms, each filled with contemporary artworks – some even NFTs – all available for purchase. Spot something you like? Buy it on the spot!
Another gem offered by this creative hub is live painting: you might witness a local or international artist creating a piece in real-time, all to the beat of live music or a DJ set. You can even get a quote from the evening’s interior designer if you’re inspired to redecorate your home.
Art Mall
Via Torino 64 (M1 Duomo, Tram 2/14)
Willy’s Burger: TV Series-Themed Burgers
If you’re tired of the same old fast food, head to Willy’s Burger for a seriously fun and tasty alternative. “Trono di Salmon”, “La Casa di Cheddar” and “Narchos” are just a few of the epic burgers on the menu, all inspired by cult TV shows.
The brand has two locations: one in Via Lazzaretto, themed around Stranger Things, and the other in Viale Abruzzi, dedicated to La Casa de Papel.
The decor transports you straight into your favourite TV universe, while the menu features cleverly named burgers—like Stranger Peanuts (€15), with a bright red upside-down bun, caramelised onion, peanut butter sauce, and double bacon, or the monochrome The Witchger (€13.90), with black bun, mushrooms, crispy guanciale, cacio e pepe sauce, and pecorino cheese.
Veggies are covered too—try the Casa di Cheddar with beetroot bun, chickpea patty, cheddar sauce, and grilled courgettes (€12.90). New releases? Expect limited edition burgers and special offers tied to the latest seasons.
Willy’s Burger
Viale Abruzzi 25 (M2 Piola)
Via Lazzaretto 3 (M1 Porta Venezia)
Milleluci Trattoria Pop: Dinner and ‘70s Karaoke
No list of quirky spots in Milan is complete without Milleluci Trattoria Pop, a revamped vintage eatery in Porta Venezia where fun is guaranteed—especially for lovers of all things ‘60s and ‘70s.
With its bold neon lights, retro photos, and décor inspired by Italian music legends like Raffaella Carrà, this place is perfect for nostalgic evenings with friends. There’s even karaoke, so get ready to belt out your favourite hits from decades past.
The kitchen offers simple yet tasty Marchigiana-inspired dishes, like the Sbudellata (cured sausage), or the original Prugnette Milleluci—plums stuffed with sausage and fontina, wrapped in guanciale (€6). Mains range from €13 to €20.
Milleluci
Via Rosolino Pilo, 7 (M1 Porta Venezia)
Rita’s Tiki Room: Tropical Cocktails on the Navigli
Looking for a tropical escape in the middle of Milan? At Rita’s Tiki Room, you’ll be transported to Polynesia for a night, thanks to colourful drinks and a vibrant, tribal-inspired setting right on the Navigli.
A spin-off of the classic Rita’s, the Tiki Room is entirely unique in theme—focusing on tiki culture with wood interiors and exotic vibes.
The recently renovated tropical courtyard is perfect for summer evenings. Cocktails are mainly fruity and spicy, with themed glasses and fresh garnishes. Try a drink from the Modern Tiki or Tiki Best menu—like the Bongo Express or Saturn.
Pair your drink with exotic fusion dishes like Pad Thai, Tum Tum Balls (sweet potato croquettes), Tiki Tiki Raviolo (pulled pork ravioli with soy sauce and nori), or Wonton Nachos.
The bar also hosts events with renowned mixologists and international guest bartenders.
Rita’s Tiki Room
Ripa di Porta Ticinese 69 (M2 Porta Genova)
Blues Bikers Pub: Beer and Burgers for Real Bikers
Blues Bikers Pub is more than a pub—it’s a haven for motorcycle lovers, blues-rock fans, and meat aficionados.
The walls are adorned with vintage Harley Davidson plates, old photos, and musical instruments. The welcoming staff will make you feel right at home, and the menu offers a range of meats: beef, goat, horse, and mutton.
The burgers, made with local ingredients, are excellent value—beef from €8, others at €10. You’ll also find a wide selection of craft beers and their homemade cider when in season.
Blues Bikers Pub
Via Brioschi 7 (Bus 59; M2 Romolo)
Crazy Cat Café: Coffee and Cuddles with Cats
Looking for some purr therapy? Head to Crazy Cat Café near Centrale station for a cosy break with a twist—you’ll be joined by adorable rescue cats roaming freely around the café.
It’s a great study spot (if you can resist the feline distractions), inspired by Japanese neko cafés where animal welfare comes first.
There are strict rules to ensure the cats’ wellbeing—no flash photos and definitely no sharing your cake with them!
The café offers breakfast, brunch, lunch (Tuesday to Friday), and tapas-style aperitivo from 6pm. Don’t miss the Cat-puccino (€4.50), a slice of homemade cake (€5), or their signature biscuits (€3.50).
Lunch options include freshly made waffles (with salmon & egg, soft cheese & courgette, or vegan), plus daily specials with meat, fish, and veggie choices. A small cover charge helps fund the care of the cats.
Lunch options include freshly made waffles (with salmon & egg, soft cheese & courgette, or vegan), plus daily specials with meat, fish, and veggie choices. A small cover charge helps fund the care of the cats.
Crazy Cat Café
Via Napo Torriani, 5 (M2 Centrale)
La Chiesetta: A Sinful Cocktail in a Deconsecrated Church
Forgive me Father, for I have… indulged in one too many drinks at La Chiesetta. Located in a tiny former church near Paolo Sarpi/Chinatown, this unusual bar is one of Milan’s most beloved hidden gems.
It may be small, but it’s always packed—thanks to its unique setting where sacred meets sinful: rock music, bold cocktails, and holy walls that once hosted prayer now house partying locals.
Perfect for a cheeky aperitivo or post-dinner drinks with close friends, La Chiesetta offers an Aperi-messa: from 6–9pm, add €3 to your drink and enjoy a platter of cured meats and cheeses.
Try their Moscow Mule della Chiesetta (€10) or the Sangria del Priore (€6 glass / €18 litre). And don’t miss their €3 shots: Sangue di Giuda (strawberry, rum, lemon), Confessione (melon vodka & Red Bull), or Acqua Santa (rum, gin, vodka, tequila). You’ll leave thoroughly… unholy.
Check out also Il Gattopardo in Milan, another deconsecrated church (now club).
La Chiesetta
Via Paolo Lomazzo, 12 (M2 Moscova; Tram 14)
Full List of Unique Places to Eat and Drink in Milan
Here’s a quick recap of the most unique places to eat and drink in Milan:
- Art Mall (Via Torino 64)
- Willy’s Burger (Viale Abruzzi 25, Via Lazzaretto 3)
- Milleluci Trattoria Pop (Via Rosolino Pilo, 7)
- Rita’s Tiki Room (Ripa di Porta Ticinese 69)
- Blues Bikers Pub (Via Brioschi 7), ve ne abbiamo parlato qui
- Crazy Cat Café (Via Napo Torriani, 5), ve ne avevamo parlato qui
- Il Gattopardo (Via Piero della Francesca, 47/51)
- La Chiesetta (Via Paolo Lomazzo, 12)
- ARCA (Via Rimini, 38), ve ne abbiamo parlato qui
- Foresta Woodbar (Via Celestino IV, 6)
- Magolosa (Piazzale Tripoli 7)
- Nottingham Forest (Viale Piave, 1)
- Unseen Bar (Via Ronchi, 13)
- White Rabbit Speakeasy (Via Garigliano, 4)
Article written by contributor Giulia Minguzzi
Did you like this article? Follow us on Facebook or Instagram!
Want to read more? Here 13 top bakeries in Milan, where to eat a proper cotoletta alla milanese and the best pasta bars in town!
