Milan, Italy’s fashion and finance capital, is not just known for its haute couture and historic landmarks—it’s also a haven for food lovers. The city’s culinary scene offers a tantalizing blend of traditional Milanese dishes and contemporary Italian cuisine. During my recent trip to Milan, I made it a mission to sample the local specialties that define the city’s vibrant food culture. Here’s a detailed look at seven iconic Milanese dishes that you absolutely must try, complete with personal experiences and recommendations.
1. Risotto alla Milanese: A Creamy Classic
Where to Try It: Ratanà, Via de Castillia 28, Milan
Dish Description: Risotto alla Milanese is Milan’s signature dish, renowned for its rich, creamy texture and vibrant yellow color, which comes from saffron—a key ingredient in this classic recipe. The risotto is cooked slowly to achieve the perfect creamy consistency, often served with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a hint of white wine.
My Experience:
I decided to start my culinary adventure with Risotto alla Milanese at Ratanà, a charming restaurant known for its traditional Milanese cuisine. The moment I took a spoonful of this dish, I was struck by its luxurious creaminess and delicate saffron flavor. The risotto was cooked to perfection, with each grain of rice coated in a velvety sauce that was both rich and comforting.
Ratanà’s version of this dish was a revelation. The saffron was beautifully balanced, giving the risotto a subtle yet distinct flavor. The restaurant’s warm, rustic atmosphere and attentive service made the meal even more enjoyable. This dish is a must-try for anyone visiting Milan, and Ratanà is a great place to experience it.
Recommendation: Pair this dish with a glass of Pinot Grigio for a light and refreshing complement to the creamy risotto.
2. Osso Buco: Milan’s Hearty Delight
Where to Try It: Trattoria Madonnina, Via della Madonna 16, Milan
Dish Description: Osso Buco, which translates to “bone with a hole,” is a traditional Milanese dish made from braised veal shanks. The meat is slow-cooked with vegetables, white wine, and broth until it’s tender and flavorful. The marrow from the bone adds a rich depth to the dish, often served with a side of risotto or polenta.
My Experience:
I tasted Osso Buco at Trattoria Madonnina, a quaint trattoria that specializes in classic Milanese dishes. The Osso Buco here was nothing short of spectacular. The veal was incredibly tender, falling off the bone with ease. The sauce was a perfect blend of savory and slightly sweet, with a rich flavor that was enhanced by the marrow.
The dish was served with a side of creamy polenta, which complemented the Osso Buco beautifully. Trattoria Madonnina’s warm and inviting atmosphere made the experience even more special. This dish is perfect for those looking to indulge in a hearty and traditional Milanese meal.
Recommendation: Enjoy this dish with a glass of Chianti or Barolo for a robust pairing that complements the rich flavors of the Osso Buco.
3. Cotoletta alla Milanese: A Crispy Favorite
Where to Try It: Da Giacomo, Via Monte Napoleone 8, Milan
Dish Description: Cotoletta alla Milanese is Milan’s version of the classic breaded veal cutlet, known for its crispy exterior and tender meat. The veal is breaded and fried until golden brown, often served with a lemon wedge and a side of salad or potatoes.
My Experience:
For a taste of Cotoletta alla Milanese, I visited Da Giacomo, a restaurant renowned for its sophisticated take on traditional Milanese dishes. The Cotoletta here was a highlight of my trip. The cutlet was perfectly fried, with a crispy, golden crust and juicy, flavorful meat inside.
The presentation was elegant, with a fresh lemon wedge to squeeze over the cutlet, adding a zesty contrast to the richness of the fried meat. The accompanying salad was light and refreshing, balancing the meal nicely. Da Giacomo’s refined setting and excellent service made this dining experience truly memorable.
Recommendation: Pair this dish with a glass of Prosecco for a sparkling complement that enhances the crispy, flavorful cutlet.
4. Panettone: Milan’s Festive Sweet Treat
Where to Try It: Pasticceria Marchesi, Via Monte Napoleone 9, Milan
Dish Description: Panettone is a traditional Milanese Christmas bread, known for its fluffy texture and rich flavor. It’s typically filled with candied fruit, raisins, and nuts, and often enjoyed with a glass of sparkling wine. While it’s commonly associated with the holiday season, many bakeries in Milan offer it year-round.
My Experience:
I sampled Panettone at Pasticceria Marchesi, one of Milan’s most renowned pastry shops. The Panettone was exceptional—light and airy with a delightful sweetness and a generous amount of candied fruit. The bakery’s elegant atmosphere and charming decor made enjoying this festive treat even more special.
The Panettone was served with a glass of Moscato d’Asti, which complemented the sweetness of the bread perfectly. Even though I visited outside the holiday season, Pasticceria Marchesi’s Panettone was a standout experience that truly captured the essence of Milanese pastry traditions.
Recommendation: Enjoy Panettone with a glass of Moscato d’Asti or a warm cup of espresso for a delightful pairing that enhances the bread’s rich flavors.
5. Risotto al Nero di Seppia: A Unique Seafood Delight
Where to Try It: Osteria del Binari, Via Tortona 1, Milan
Dish Description: Risotto al Nero di Seppia is a unique Milanese seafood dish made with cuttlefish ink, which gives the risotto its distinctive black color. The dish is known for its rich, briny flavor and creamy texture, often garnished with pieces of cuttlefish and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
My Experience:
At Osteria del Binari, I had the chance to try Risotto al Nero di Seppia, and it was a culinary adventure. The risotto was jet-black and wonderfully creamy, with a deep, savory flavor from the cuttlefish ink. The pieces of cuttlefish were tender and well-seasoned, adding a nice contrast to the dish.
The restaurant’s cozy and intimate setting made the meal even more enjoyable. The Risotto al Nero di Seppia was a bold choice that paid off, offering a taste of Milanese cuisine that’s both unique and satisfying.
Recommendation: Pair this dish with a glass of dry white wine or a light Pinot Grigio to complement the rich, briny flavors of the risotto.
6. Cassoeula: Milan’s Comfort Food
Where to Try It: Al Pompiere, Via Giuseppe Mazzini 22, Milan
Dish Description: Cassoeula is a traditional Milanese stew made with pork and cabbage, often enjoyed during the winter months. The dish is hearty and flavorful, with the pork providing a rich, savory base and the cabbage adding a slight bitterness that balances the stew.
My Experience:
I experienced Cassoeula at Al Pompiere, a restaurant known for its rustic Milanese dishes. The Cassoeula was a true comfort food, with tender chunks of pork cooked to perfection and a generous amount of cabbage. The stew was rich and satisfying, perfect for a cold day in Milan.
The restaurant’s warm and welcoming ambiance made this meal even more enjoyable. The Cassoeula was served with a side of polenta, which complemented the stew beautifully. This dish is a must-try for anyone looking to experience traditional Milanese comfort food.
Recommendation: Enjoy Cassoeula with a robust red wine like Barbera or Dolcetto to enhance the dish’s hearty flavors.
7. Negroni Sbagliato: Milan’s Signature Cocktail
Where to Try It: Bar Basso, Via Plinio 39, Milan
Drink Description: The Negroni Sbagliato is a twist on the classic Negroni cocktail, made with sparkling wine instead of gin. It’s a refreshing and slightly lighter alternative to the traditional cocktail, with a delightful blend of bitter and sweet flavors.
My Experience:
I had the chance to try a Negroni Sbagliato at Bar Basso, one of Milan’s most famous cocktail bars. The drink was perfectly balanced, with the sparkling wine adding a refreshing effervescence to the classic Negroni flavors. The bartenders at Bar Basso are skilled and knowledgeable, ensuring that each drink is expertly crafted.
The bar’s chic and lively atmosphere made for a great evening out, and the Negroni Sbagliato was the perfect way to end a day of exploring Milan. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enjoy a unique and refreshing cocktail in the heart of the city.
Recommendation: Sip on a Negroni Sbagliato with a few olives or a small appetizer to enhance the drink’s flavors and make for a perfect aperitivo.
Each of these iconic Milanese dishes offers a unique taste of the city’s culinary heritage. From the creamy richness of Risotto alla Milanese to the bold flavors of Risotto al Nero di Seppia, Milan’s food scene is diverse and delicious.
