Indagare is always scouting for the newest best restaurants, classic spots and neighborhood gems that feel like a special find. Though the restaurant scene changes often, here is our current list of top tables in Milan, for any occasion.
Editors’ Picks: Lunch
Il Salumaio di Montenapoleone
Duck into this lovely place for a quick lunch and people watching at its finest, and dine on Italian cuisine based in tradition either alfresco in the spacious courtyard or in the wood-paneled dining room. Via Montenapoleone, 12
La Scaletta
The three Teruzzi brothers run this congenial but elegant restaurant near the Porta Genova train station, serving an inspired Lombardy-meets-Mediterranean menu. Piazzale Stazione Porta Genova, 3
Latteria San Marco
Originally a small dairy shop in La Brera, Latteria San Marco expanded into a traditional Milanese-style restaurant shortly after World War II, with only eight tables and no reservations. Via San Marco, 24
LùBar
In the Gallery of Modern Art, LùBar has multiple spaces, including a special winter garden and conservatory room, and the food concept draws on simple Sicilian cuisine. It’s also a good spot for lunch, coffee or aperitivo. Via Palestro, 16
Trattoria de la Trebia Milano
From the large historical wall painting to the sleek wooden columns, this trattoria feels charmingly old world and specializes in Milanese meats and local vegetables. Via Trebbia, 32
Pasta Fresca Brambilla
This neighborhood spot serves delicious homemade pasta for lunch, and stays open only until they sell out, so it is best to make a reservation. Via Melzo, 2
Editors’ Picks: Dinner
Da Giacomo
With its old fashioned, almost Italian country grandmother décor, Da Giacomo has been a beloved institution for years, and it draws a supremely fashionable crowd for some of the best fish dishes in the city and warm familiar service. Via Pasquale Sottocorno, 6
Dry
Dry is the brainchild of the owners behind Pisacco (across the street), and its genius blend of cocktail bar-meets-pizza joint remains a huge hit. Via Solferino, 33
Il Luogo di Aimo e Nadia
A Michelin-starred restaurant that was opened by husband and wife food lovers in 1962, Il Luogo di Aimo e Nadia still serves delicious food in an upscale environment. Via Privata Raimondo Montecuccoli, 6
Langosteria
Those with a craving for seafood should make a reservation at this acclaimed restaurant in the design-heavy Tortona neighborhood—but be prepared for a higher price tag. Via Savona, 10
Trattoria del Nuovo Macello
Far from the city center, this cozy trattoria focused on Northern Italian food is a good destination for gourmets who want to be surrounded by locals instead of other visitors. Via Cesare Lombroso, 20
Trattoria Trippa
Serving typical Milanese cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients, this trattoria has a more relaxed but refined feel. Via Giorgio Vasari, 1
Editors’ Picks: Coffee & Dessert
Bar Luce
The warm and whimsical restaurant-cum-bar in the Fondazione Prada was conceived by film director Wes Anderson and is a good spot for coffee, panino or dessert. Largo Isarco 2
Marchesi 1824
The original, historic location of this pastry shop is walking distance to Santa Maria delle Grazie (home of da Vinci’s The Last Supper), making a good pit-stop for an espresso and a colorful, elegantly boxed candy—a fabulous memento to bring home. Via Santa Maria alla Porta 11a
Editors’ Picks: Cocktails & Aperitivo
Bamboo Bar
Even if you are not staying at the Armani Hotel, a drink at its serene Bamboo Bar on the seventh floor is a must, where the soaring space is dominated by the onyx-back bar, the ambience is hushed and the views of Milan are expansive. Via Manzoni, 31
Cantine Isola
This historic wine bar is known for its friendly and knowledgeable staff, plus the delicious wines that are paired with small snacks. Via Paolo Sarpi, 30
Ceresio 7
One of the coolest places for aperitivo (with especially tasty small plates and cocktails), the cozy dining room and lounge was designed by cutting-edge Dimore Studio, and in the warm months, the rooftop terrace is unbeatable. Via Ceresio, 7
Terrazza Gallia
On the seventh floor of Excelsior Hotel, this rooftop terrace has panoramic views of Milan and is a scenic spot for aperitivo. Piazza Duca d’Aosta, 9
