10 best restaurants in Milan Italy
10 best restaurants in Milan Italy
Deciding where to eat in Milan Italy: perfect for foodies and tourists🍷. Milan is an incredible city for food, offering everything from traditional Italian fare to modern, innovative dining experiences. Here are 10 of the best Milan restaurants you should consider checking out:
Osteria Francescana
Osteria Francescana is a 3-star Michelin restaurant, led by Massimo Bottura, is often considered one of the best in the world. It’s a bit of a detour from Milan (in Modena), but it’s definitely worth the visit if you have the chance.
Osteria Francescana is an absolute culinary masterpiece! Located in Modena, it’s a bit of a trip from Milan (about 1.5 hours by car or train), but it’s totally worth it if you’re a foodie or looking for a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience.
Massimo Bottura’s approach blends tradition with innovative techniques, often reinterpreting classic Italian dishes in surprising ways. The tasting menu is a journey in itself, with dishes that tell stories of Italy’s culture, history, and art. Some of Bottura’s signature dishes include the famous “Five Ages of Parmigiano Reggiano” and “Oops! I Dropped the Lemon Tart”, both of which are as much about the experience as the taste.
Address: Via Stella, 22, 41121 Modena MO, Italy
Ristorante Cracco
A Milan institution, Chef Carlo’s Ristorante Cracco restaurant offers contemporary Italian cuisine with a twist. Known for its innovation and elegance, it’s a place to enjoy both exquisite food and top-tier service.
Ristorante Cracco is definitely a standout in Milan, blending modern Italian cuisine with innovative techniques. Chef Carlo Cracco has made a name for himself not just in Milan, but globally, with his bold, avant-garde approach to Italian classics.
The restaurant’s interior is sleek and sophisticated, perfectly reflecting the elevated dining experience that awaits. Cracco’s menu offers a perfect balance of traditional flavors reimagined in new and unexpected ways. Whether it’s his take on risotto or his creative pasta dishes, there’s a real sense of craftsmanship and artistry in each plate.
The service is top-notch, and the wine list is carefully curated, often featuring both local Italian wines and international selections that pair beautifully with the dishes.
One signature dish that’s well-loved by visitors is the “Eggplant Parmesan”, which is presented in a completely unexpected form. It’s a playful and refined take on a classic comfort food.
Address: Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, 20121 Milano MI, Italy
Phone: +39 02 876774
Il Luogo di Aimo e Nadia
Il Luogo di Aimo e Nadia is a Michelin-starred gem, this restaurant serves refined, modern interpretations of classic Italian dishes. It’s a perfect spot for those looking to experience both tradition and creativity.
Il Luogo di Aimo e Nadia is an exceptional choice for anyone looking to enjoy high-end Italian cuisine with a deep respect for both tradition and innovation. Located in the heart of Milan, this Michelin-starred restaurant is a real gem, offering a unique experience that celebrates Italy’s rich culinary history while embracing modern techniques.
The menu at Il Luogo di Aimo e Nadia is a sophisticated blend of classic Italian ingredients and cutting-edge creativity. Chef Aimo Moroni and his team have perfected the art of elevating traditional dishes like risotto and pasta, presenting them in ways that highlight both the flavors and textures in fresh, unexpected forms.
The restaurant’s atmosphere is elegant and intimate, with a focus on providing guests with a calm, immersive dining experience. The tasting menu is especially popular, showcasing a journey through Italy’s culinary heritage, from the north to the south, all with a modern twist. The restaurant’s interior also has a minimal yet warm design, creating a comfortable but upscale setting for your meal.
A standout feature is the wine list, which is an impressive collection of Italy’s finest wines, paired expertly with each dish to bring out its full potential.
Address: Via Privata Raimondo Montecuccoli, 6, 20147 Milano MI, Italy
Phone: +39 02 416886
Trattoria Milanese
For more traditional Milanese cuisine, Trattoria Milanese is a go-to. It’s a cozy spot to enjoy authentic dishes like risotto alla milanese or ossobuco.
Trattoria Milanese is a true Milanese classic and the perfect place to experience the authentic flavors of Milan in a cozy, traditional setting. If you’re craving comfort food with a local touch, this spot is ideal.
The menu at Trattoria Milanese features a variety of classic Milanese dishes, but the risotto alla milanese and ossobuco are the stars of the show. The risotto is creamy and rich, flavored with saffron, while the ossobuco—braised veal shanks cooked to perfection—is served with a delicious gremolata (a zesty herb mixture) that brightens up the dish. It’s the kind of food that feels like home, no matter where you’re from.
The ambiance is warm and welcoming, with rustic touches and a relaxed atmosphere that makes it feel like you’re dining at a local family-run spot. It’s a great choice for anyone wanting to experience traditional Milanese hospitality and flavors without any fuss.
For dessert, don’t miss out on the tiramisu or a classic panettone if you’re visiting during the winter months. Both are simple but incredibly satisfying.
Address: Via Santa Marta, 11, 20123 Milano MI, Italy
Phone: +39 02 8645 1991
Nobu Milano
If you’re in the mood for Japanese-Peruvian fusion, Nobu Milano offers exceptional sushi and innovative dishes with the signature flair you expect from the Nobu brand.
Nobu Milano is a fantastic option if you’re looking to step away from traditional Italian food and dive into something a bit more cosmopolitan. As part of the globally renowned Nobu brand, this restaurant blends Japanese and Peruvian flavors with the signature flair that’s made Nobu a worldwide sensation.
The sushi at Nobu is always top-notch—fresh, precise, and creatively presented. But it’s the fusion dishes that really stand out. Expect to see iconic dishes like Black Cod Miso, a Nobu classic that’s as flavorful as it is tender, or Tiradito (Peruvian-style sashimi) with a twist. The menu brings a modern, inventive approach to both Japanese and Peruvian ingredients, with an emphasis on bold flavors, bright citrus, and delicate textures.
The interior of Nobu Milano is sleek, modern, and stylish, giving off an upscale, yet relaxed vibe. It’s perfect for both a chic dinner out or a special occasion. The ambiance is sophisticated without feeling too formal, which is exactly what you’d expect from the Nobu brand.
Address: Via Gastone Pisoni, 1, 20121 Milano MI, Italy
Sadler
Sadler is a Michelin-starred restaurant that blends Italian tradition with contemporary techniques. Chef Claudio Sadler creates a unique dining experience with seasonal ingredients and artful presentation.
Sadler is an exceptional choice if you’re looking for a Michelin-starred experience that combines Italian tradition with a modern twist. Chef Claudio Sadler is known for his ability to transform classic Italian dishes into something new and exciting, all while preserving the essence of the original flavors.
At Sadler, the focus is on seasonal ingredients, allowing each dish to reflect the best of what’s fresh and available. The menu changes regularly to take advantage of the best local and seasonal produce, giving you a chance to experience different flavors depending on when you visit.
What sets Sadler apart is the artful presentation of each dish—each plate is a work of art, with attention to detail in both aesthetics and taste. The flavors are always clean and refined, and you’ll often find that even the simplest ingredients are elevated to new heights through thoughtful preparation and innovative techniques.
A popular option here is the tasting menu, where you can enjoy a full progression of dishes that showcase the depth of Sadler’s culinary creativity. Some of the standout dishes often include ravioli with truffle, and scallops with citrus—light yet rich in flavor.
The restaurant’s setting is equally refined, with a modern, sleek design that complements the cutting-edge approach to Italian cooking.
Address: Via dell’Annunciata, 14, 20121 Milano MI, Italy
Phone: +39 02 5810 4451
Al Pont de Ferr
Located in the Navigli district, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers a modern take on traditional Italian cuisine. It’s known for creative presentations and an exceptional tasting menu.
Al Pont de Ferr is a hidden gem in the Navigli district of Milan, offering a truly unique and modern take on traditional Italian cuisine. With its Michelin star, it stands out for its creativity and artistic approach to classic Italian flavors, all while maintaining a strong connection to Italian culinary roots.
The restaurant is known for its tasting menu, which is a journey of flavors and textures. Each dish is carefully crafted, with innovative presentations that make the food feel like a visual experience as much as a culinary one. Chef Matteo Torretta brings a lot of creativity to his menus, blending local ingredients with contemporary techniques, and you’ll find unexpected twists on familiar dishes.
The setting of Al Pont de Ferr is also part of its charm. It has a relaxed, intimate vibe with a vibrant atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for both special occasions and casual, yet elevated, dining. You’ll find a mix of modern art and design elements that match the modern cuisine on the plate.
Some standout dishes include their “spaghetti with caviar”, which reinterprets an Italian classic, and their “squid ink with citrus”, a dish that balances deep flavors with a refreshing finish. It’s the kind of place where each course feels like a surprise, and you’re always excited to see what comes next.
Address: Ripa di Porta Ticinese, 55, 20143 Milano MI, Italy
The Shambala
The Shambala is a sleek and trendy spot for Asian cuisine in Milan, this restaurant mixes elements of Chinese, Japanese, and Thai food, providing an interesting fusion with a modern touch.
The Shambala in Milan is an exciting, trendy destination if you’re craving Asian fusion cuisine. Located in the heart of Milan, it stands out for its modern approach to combining Chinese, Japanese, and Thai culinary traditions, resulting in a vibrant and flavorful menu.
The atmosphere is sleek and stylish, with a chic, contemporary design that makes it a popular spot for both locals and visitors looking for a stylish dining experience. The restaurant’s decor is as much a part of the experience as the food, with a minimalist yet cozy ambiance that invites you to relax and enjoy the meal.
As for the food, The Shambala offers a creative blend of flavors from across Asia, bringing a fresh twist to traditional dishes. You can expect to find options like sushi and dim sum, along with Thai curries and Chinese stir-fries, all elevated with innovative ingredients and techniques. Dishes are thoughtfully plated, showcasing the care and attention that goes into each preparation.
Their fusion approach allows for some unique and unexpected flavor pairings, while still staying true to the core elements of each cuisine. It’s perfect for anyone looking to experience bold Asian flavors in a more contemporary setting. The cocktail menu is also worth noting, with cocktails that incorporate Asian ingredients like matcha and yuzu, offering refreshing, out-of-the-box flavors.
Address: Via Giuseppe Ripamonti, 337, 20141 Milano MI, Italy
Ratanà
A favorite for local Milanese cuisine, Ratanà serves both traditional dishes and contemporary variations. The atmosphere is relaxed, and it’s a great place to experience local Milanese flavors in a modern setting.
Ratanà is a wonderful spot if you’re looking to dive into authentic Milanese cuisine with a modern twist. Located in the Isola district, it offers a cozy yet contemporary atmosphere that makes it perfect for both casual meals and special nights out.
Chef Cesare Battisti focuses on celebrating Milanese flavors while reimagining some traditional dishes with creative updates. The menu features classics like risotto alla milanese and ossobuco, but with a fresh, refined approach. For example, their take on milanese-style breaded veal might be lighter and more delicate than the classic, but still full of rich, comforting flavors.
The atmosphere at Ratanà is definitely part of its charm—it’s stylish but relaxed, with an open kitchen that invites you to watch the chefs at work. The warm, welcoming vibe makes it a great place to enjoy a leisurely meal while appreciating the modern setting. Whether you’re dining inside the trendy, industrial-style space or on the charming outdoor terrace, you’ll feel right at home.
They also do a great job of pairing their dishes with carefully selected local wines, which enhance the flavors of Milanese cuisine. It’s a perfect choice for anyone wanting to experience traditional Milanese comfort food in a contemporary environment.
Address: Via Gaetano de Castillia, 28, 20124 Milano MI, Italy
Phone: +39 02 8712 8855
Cucina di Puglia
For something a little different, this restaurant offers the flavors of Puglia, a southern Italian region known for its rich Mediterranean ingredients and simple yet delicious dishes.
Cucina di Puglia is a fantastic choice if you’re craving something a little different from the typical Milanese or northern Italian cuisine. The flavors of Puglia, a beautiful region in southern Italy, are all about simplicity, fresh ingredients, and dishes that showcase the Mediterranean’s best.
Puglia is known for its olive oil, seafood, fresh vegetables, and pasta like orecchiette (a type of ear-shaped pasta), which often comes with a variety of sauces like turnip greens or tomato and ricotta. At Cucina di Puglia, you’ll find those traditional flavors highlighted with a modern sensibility, offering an elevated yet unpretentious experience.
The menu is full of Mediterranean-inspired dishes, with an emphasis on local, seasonal ingredients. Expect hearty but fresh offerings like grilled fish, fried seafood, and slow-cooked meats, as well as delicious sides like panzanella (a Tuscan bread salad) or burrata, which is a creamy cheese that hails from the Puglia region. The cuisine is both satisfying and light, making it perfect for any meal of the day.
The atmosphere at Cucina di Puglia is cozy, warm, and inviting, with a focus on creating a laid-back but refined dining experience. The interior reflects the rustic charm of Puglia, often featuring natural wood elements and an earthy color palette to match the natural ingredients of the cuisine.
If you’re a fan of Mediterranean flavors and enjoy the simplicity of fresh, high-quality ingredients, Cucina di Puglia offers a wonderful, delicious alternative to the more well-known northern Italian fare.
Each of these places offers a unique dining experience, so whether you’re in the mood for high-end Michelin-starred meals or a casual, traditional spot, Milan has something to satisfy all tastes.
Conclusion:
If you are looking for the best places to eat in Milan, then this city really offers a diverse culinary landscape that blends both traditional Italian flavors and more innovative, international influences. Whether you’re after the rich, comforting tastes of classic Milanese dishes or the cutting-edge creativity of modern cuisine, the city has something to suit every taste.
