Article by contributor Giulia Minguzzi
You can read it in Italian here
A few years ago, my idea of coffee was simply downing an espresso on the go before heading to university or work. But Milan opened my eyes to a whole new world—one I knew little about and have since grown curious and passionate about. Today, I can count on a wide variety of cafés, each with its own unique philosophy and story. In Milan, the art of coffee blends seamlessly with elegance, creativity, and innovation. The city is a true melting pot of cultures and lifestyles, and its cafés offer a unique experience—whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or just beginning to explore its many nuances.
Here, I’m sharing seven distinctive cafés in Milan, quite different from your average neighbourhood bar, each with its own atmosphere and specialities.
Montalcino Caffè: A Hidden Gem of Tranquillity Along the Navigli
Tucked away beside the Church of San Cristoforo, right on the Naviglio Grande, you’ll find Montalcino Caffè—a charming café-bistro with a truly unique location and a refined menu spanning from breakfast to aperitivo. Nestled in one of the Navigli’s most beautiful corners, it offers a relaxing retreat from the city buzz. It’s perfect for a calm start to your day with a quality coffee and a handmade pastry or brioche, or for a leisurely brunch or lunch with dishes inspired by Tuscan tradition (no surprise, as the café is run by the same owners as the nearby Ristorante Montalcino, a short stroll towards the Darsena).
In the evening, the bistro is ideal for aperitivo, with a few tables outside in the picturesque San Cristoforo square.
I stopped by just for a simple coffee (which was excellent), and I must say the counter display was very tempting—with maritozzi, elegant mini desserts and dainty pastries catching my eye. I also saw some of the brunch dishes coming out of the kitchen, and they looked delicious—especially the truffle eggs. A perfect spot for a sweet break or an indulgent snack in a peaceful setting. If enjoying your coffee in absolute tranquillity is a ritual for you, this is definitely the place.
Montalcino Caffè
Via San Cristoforo, 1 (M2 Porta Genova)
Romanengo 1780: Italy’s Oldest Artisan Confectioner
Hidden in a courtyard near the streets of Sant’Ambrogio, Romanengo 1780 is a Genoese gem offering a selection of exquisite artisan sweets in a refined and elegant setting. Originally renowned for its sugared almonds and spices (still available to buy loose at the entrance), the real highlight here is the central display stand brimming with handmade biscuits, French-style croissants, and delicious pastries.
One afternoon, a couple of colleagues and I visited to treat ourselves after lunch, pairing a lovely coffee with a mix of buttery biscuits—each more delicious than the last.
The café, where you’re served at your table, feels like stepping into a 19th-century French tearoom—peaceful and elegant. Prices are slightly higher than your average Milanese café (we paid over €5 each for coffee and biscuits), but they’re well justified by the quality and the beautiful setting. Perfect for a treat with your mum or grandma, or for a quiet indulgence before a busy workday.
Romanengo 1780
Via Caminadella, 23 (M2 Sant’Ambrogio)
Radicetonda: Vegan-Friendly Treats in Porta Venezia
Looking for an alternative to the ultra-trendy spots in Porta Venezia? Radicetonda is a vegan-friendly café that offers plant-based dishes and drinks from breakfast through to dinner.
One spring afternoon, a friend and I couldn’t decide between a sweet snack or an aperitivo—and this place gave us the best of both. My friend (lactose intolerant) enjoyed a delicious vegan mango cheesecake, while I opted for a refreshing organic spritz served with a surprisingly good vegan sharing board—featuring plant-based cheeses, beetroot hummus, and roast potatoes.
Prices are reasonable, if not slightly below the area average (€5 for a slice of cake, €2 for a cappuccino with plant milk, and €10 for the spritz and small board combo). Radicetonda is a great option for a vegan lunch with colleagues or a relaxed break after shopping on Corso Buenos Aires.
Radicetonda
Via Lazzaro Spallanzani,16 (M1 Porta Venezia)
Nowhere Coffee: The Specialty Coffee That’s Got Milan Hooked
Highly Instagrammable and instantly recognisable for its pastel pink hues, Nowhere Coffee is one of Milan’s most talked-about specialty coffee shops. The aroma alone is intoxicating, and the baristas are real coffee experts. If you’re hunting for Milan’s most distinctive coffee, you’re in the right place—and even if you’re a newbie, the team will happily help you choose the perfect blend based on your taste.
In addition to the ever-popular (and beautifully presented) flat white, there’s a broad selection of coffees based on origin and brewing method.
Let your palate explore—you won’t be disappointed. As for the baked goods, the cardamom buns and cinnamon rolls are the stars, alongside Nordic-inspired cakes and cookies, all homemade. Prices are what you’d expect from a specialty coffee shop, a touch higher than traditional cafés nearby.
Nowhere Coffe
Via Vetere, 14 (M2 Sant’Ambrogio)
Egalité: A French Boulangerie in Brera (and Porta Venezia)
Craving a croissant or baguette the way they make them in France? You can find them in the heart of Milan. Egalité first opened in Via Melzo and later expanded to Brera—a neighbourhood that’s just perfect for a stylish French café.
Step inside and you’ll feel transported to Paris: from the music to the decor, every detail channels La Grande Nation. The counter is piled high with viennoiseries, flans, and cakes, while baguettes fill wicker baskets behind. The croissants are intensely buttery, and the Roll Croissants fly off the shelves from early morning.
Thankfully, the coffee here has nothing in common with your average French espresso—it’s strong, rich, and worthy of a proper petit-déjeuner. I’d recommend it for a foodie breakfast with friends or a sweet mid-morning pause between exploring Milan’s city centre.
Egalité
Piazza San Simpliciano, 7 (M2 Lanza)
Caffè Napoli: Neapolitan Coffee with a Twist
No list would be complete without a true Neapolitan coffee shop. Caffè Napoli is a small chain dedicated to the sacred ritual of Neapolitan coffee—though they’re not afraid of the occasional indulgent twist.
These street-facing cafés have a contemporary design and a vibrant, sociable vibe. Unlike many cafés we’ve mentioned, here it’s all about chatter, community and a fast-paced atmosphere—don’t expect a long, relaxed sit-down. The energy is high, but also welcoming, like being surrounded by old friends sharing a moment over a strong espresso.
When I worked near Colonne, I often came here after lunch for a proper coffee at a fair price. Sometimes I’d treat myself to one of their “special” coffees (€3.50), enriched with hazelnut, pistachio or Nutella creams, topped with crunchy sprinkles—visually stunning and delicious. On more modest days, I’d stick to the classic cremina napoletana (just €1.30), with a small dash of milk cream for a rich, smooth finish. Ideal for a quick but quality coffee break.
Caffè Napoli
Corso di Porta Ticinese, 14 (varie sedi)
Hygge: A Nordic Escape for Carrot Cake and Smørrebrød
Best known for its brunches, Hygge is a Danish-Norwegian inspired bistro with minimalist Nordic decor and a menu that blends Northern European bakery traditions with international flair. We’ve already covered their €26 brunch in another article, but here I want to highlight their range of filter coffees (which change weekly) and their unique baked goods—many of which you’ll only find in Scandinavia.
After trying the brunch, I recommend visiting on weekdays to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. Sit at the communal wooden table and strike up a chat—or enjoy some peace and quiet.
In summer, try the iced latte (€4) and, if available, the Danish pastry with peach, yoghurt and lime (€4)—refreshing and surprisingly flavourful. In winter, go for the carrot cake and one of the weekly filter brews. If you prefer savoury, don’t miss the smørrebrød—open rye bread sandwiches topped with butter and a variety of meats, fish or vegetarian options.
Hygge
Via Giuseppe Sapeto 3 (M2 Sant’Ambrogio)
A Handy List of Milan’s Most Unique and Instagrammable Cafés
Here’s a quick, screenshot-friendly list of Milan’s most distinctive cafés we’ve highlighted:
- Montalcino caffè (Via San Cristoforo, 1)
- Romanengo 1780 (Via Caminadella, 23)
- Radicetonda (Via Lazzaro Spallanzani)
- Nowhere Coffe (Via Vetere, 14)
- Egalitè (Piazza San Simpliciano, 7)
- Caffè Napoli (varie sedi)
- Hygge (Via Giuseppe Sapeto 3)
Article by contributor Giulia Minguzzi
What do you think of these unique and instagrammable cafés in Milan? Let us know on Facebook or Instagram!
Wanna read more? Here the article on coworking spaces in Milan, best pizza in Milan and best pasta to eat and buy fresh.
