Planning your next trip to Milan? I’ve spent an extensive amount of time in Milan and have put together a list of some of my favorite restaurants in Milan, Italy!
Milan is one of the most diverse cities in Italy when it comes to food options. From traditional Italian to poke to Mexican, Milan has it all. Let’s break it down.
Before you go: Here’s my guide to What to Pack for Your Next Trip to Europe!
1. Obica Mozzarella Bar
Obica Mozzarella Bar is not only one of the best restaurants in Milan, Italy, but it has one of the most spectacular views in the city. Situated on a rooftop right next to the famous Duomo, the sunsets here are a sight to be seen. Try to make a reservation here about an hour before sunset.
Keep in mind that you are in Italy, and anything you order is sure to be delicious. This restaurant is a little more pricey than some other options, but you’re paying for the view and ambiance, and it’s totally worth it.
In the spring and summer time, this rooftop is the place to be!
2. Naviglio 48
Some of the best restaurants in Milan, Italy are on the Navigli Canal, but my favorite, especially recently, is Naviglio 48. This is the best place to be if you’re looking for a beautiful area full of life and character for dinner.
The food here is so fresh and perfectly Italian. The inside is very small, providing a quaint family restaurant ambiance. The owner, David, is so hospitable and he is there most nights making sure everyone is enjoying themselves.
On a Sundays, there entire canal is lined with the best vintage shopping you have likely ever seen. Come for some shopping, and stop at Naviglio 48 for an amazing meal. Ask for a table outside if it’s nice and you’ll be able to people watch for hours in one of the most beautiful and lively areas of Milan.
Be sure to try the tiramisu!
3. Fonderie Milanesi
This lesser-known aperitivo spot is one of my favorite spots in all of Milan. Whenever I have a friend in town, this is the first place I take them. Do your best to make a reservation in advance, but sometimes you can get lucky by walking in.
This place is the epitome of cool. Come with a friend, or with a big group, and you’ll be sure to have a wonderful night. They lay out all of the aperitivo options out on the big table by the door, and you are able to help yourself to however much you’d like. The drinks are amazing as well!
The outdoor seating area is the place to be if you can manage to get a table. Once April hits, Milan really starts warming up and it’s incredibly pleasant to dine outside all night with the locals in this private garden.
4. God Save the Food
If you’re looking for a healthier option during your stay, or a coffee/juice break, stop by God Save the Food. They have four locations around the city making it super convenient to track down.
They are known for their wide range of international cuisines, club sandwiches, coffee, and juices. The Tortona location is near lots of top modeling agencies and consulting companies, so you get a cool crowd and ambiance at that one.
By the way, the brunch here is…. chef’s kiss!
5. Canteen Milano
Another international option, this Mexican Kitchen and Tequila Bar on the East side of the city is easily one of the best restaurants in Milan, Italy. The outdoor dining area alone is worth the trip.
Canteen Milano has done an outstanding job creating a great ambiance with music, art, and the outdoor scene. If you’re in the mood for a margarita or paloma, this is your place. The Baja California tacos are my most recent favorite.
6. Miscusi
THIS is the ultimate tourist/English speaker/study abroad student hub, but I have absolutely no shame in admitting that this is one of my favorite places in Milan!
Miscusi is a chain restaurant that is located all over the city. The menu is created for you to build your own pasta and it is all very simple. The food here is so incredibly good and it’s also super cheap! If you’re looking for something easy after a long day or travel, this is your place.
Another huge perk – you can order a liter of wine for 12 euro. I love coming to Miscusi with a big group before going out or even as our only stop.
Most of the people around you will be speaking English as well from the USA, Australia, and other European countries. I love the vibe here, especially when I’m feeling a little homesick. The staff is consistently so nice and I always have a great experience here.
7. Ristorante Maruzzella Milano
Say hello to your ultimate, hearty, cozy, family-run Italian restaurant in Milan. This restaurant was originally recommended to me by one of my Italian professors in Milan and I have taken multiple family members and friends here ever since.
The pizza here is some of the best that I’ve had in Italy. The gnocchi is fantastic too. I love this restaurant because they’re not trying to be anything flashy or over the top. The focus is on the food and that is quite obvious.
If you have time, do not miss this restaurant! You’ll be talking about it for years to come, I promise.
8. La Bullona
The most pricey of all of the other restaurants on this list, but completely worth it if you’re looking for an upscale dinner during your time in Milan. A transformed train station now hosts one of the nicest restaurants in Milan. Known for its fish options and party atmosphere, La Bullona never disappoints.
This is a much more flashy crowd than the traditional family-run restaurants around the city, so put together a nice outfit and get ready to dine with the best of them.
9. Pizzeria di Porta Garibaldi
This pizzeria opened in 1956 by the Guintoli family and is still operating today. Once you come here, you’ll know why. Take a seat at one of the wooden tables in this family restaurant and enjoy a slice of some of the best pizza you’ll ever have in this family atmosphere.
This restaurant is located in a very hip part of town, especially for fashion lovers. Porta Garibaldi is where you’ll find some of the best flagships and you have 10 Corso Como just down the block. The city gate at the end of the street signifies the old road to Como at Lake Como.
Best Restaurants in Milan, Italy – Enjoy!
Milan is one of my favorite cities in the world. I studied abroad here at Bocconi and now my handbag brand, Vogelle, is based here.
It’s not exactly “touristy” but that’s what I love about it. Your food options are endless and the shopping and museums are on such an elevated level. I’ll be putting together a Milan travel guide shortly and will link it here!
If you find any other restaurant gems, please leave them in the comments or email me. I’m always looking for the next best place to visit while there.
