Top 10 Dishes to Try in Milan
Welcome to delightful Milan – a beacon of world-class fashion, immaculate design, rich history, architectural marvels, and above all, a Mecca for food enthusiasts. Milan’s culinary universe is an alluring blend of traditional and innovative, comforting and surprising, rustic and refined. Dive into our specially curated gastronomical journey that brings you the top 10 dishes to try in Milan and good restaurants to eat and experience them in Milan, Italy. Whether you’re a relentless foodie, an occasional culinary traveler, or simply someone with an adventurous palate, let’s eat our way through Milan’s delicious offerings together
1) Risotto Alla Milanese at Trattoria Milanese – The saffron-infused Risotto alla Milanese offers a delectable melange of satisfying creaminess and exotic fragrances. At Trattoria Milanese, this dish is cooked impeccably, with the golden hue of saffron harmonizing with the Arborio rice’s innate creamy texture, culminating in an unforgettable gustatory experience.
2) Cotoletta at Trattoria del Nuovo Macello – At this trattoria, the traditionally Milanese dish, Cotoletta (aka Veal Milanese)- a bone-in veal cutlet breaded and fried in butter – arrives perfectly crispy on the outside, yet tender and juicy on the inside. It is similar to a schnitzel but veal instead of lamb. Its appeal lies in its simplicity and the delicate balance Trattoria del Nuovo Macello achieves, offering a dish with unpretentious yet bold flavors.
3) Panettone at Pasticceria Cova – The panettone at Pasticceria Cova is remarkably fluffy, sweet, and filled with fragrant, candied fruit. Celebrated by locals and visitors alike, this Milanese bakery is a prominent destination during the Christmas season for their delectable panettone, but this traditional sweet bread lingers on the taste buds year-round.
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4) Osso Buco at Ratanà – This beloved dish comprises slow-cooked veal shanks accompanied by a heavenly blend of vegetables and spices. Ratanà, renowned for its hearty regional cooking, presents the osso buco as a rich, succulent offering, the meat falling off the bone and melting in your mouth.
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5) Polenta at Trattoria Milanese – The polenta at Trattoria Milanese hits all the right notes in terms of texture and flavor. Whether it’s served creamy, fried, or in firm squares, the bold, deeply developed flavors of the cornmeal shine through, leaving you with a delicate aftertaste of the quaint Italian countryside.
6) Gorgonzola Cheese at La Scelta – Step into La Scelta and indulge in the divine experience of tasting creamy, tangy Gorgonzola, a cheese deeply embedded in Milanese food culture. This traditional cheese shop scouts the best dairy, offering Gorgonzola that enchants with its balance of creaminess and sharp, lingering tang.
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7) Trippa alla milanese, also known as Busecca, is a traditional Milanese dish which transforms the humble tripe into an extraordinary delicacy. If you’re an adventurous food lover, this Milanese-style tripe stew spiced with a blend of herbs and cooked with cannellini beans and tomato is a must-try.
Experience this Milanese classic at Trattoria Trippa, a charismatic eatery in Milan’s hip Porta Romana neighborhood, where they prepare the tripe to perfection, creating a dish that is both tender and richly flavored. The tripe absorbs the delicate balance of spices and herbs in the stew, offering a hearty and warming dining experience.
8) Cassoeula at Manna – A traditional Milanese winter favorite, Cassoeula is a robust pork and cabbage stew. Manna serves a version of this dish that envelopes you in a warm, homely feeling, a must-try for those willing to embrace Milanese culinary heritage fully.
Panzerotti at Luini Panzerottis – These fried dough pockets filled with tangy tomatoes and molten cheese epitomize the ultimate Italian street food. Luini Panzerottis serves legendary panzerotti, crispy on the outside, delightfully gooey on the inside, and brimming with traditional flavors, making it a must-visit spot.
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Gelato at Gelateria della Musica – Milan’s answer to anyone craving ice cream might lie within Gelateria della Musica. Their artisanal gelato, crafted with pure dedication and devoid of artificial flavors, ranges from traditional tastes to innovative fusions. The creaminess and natural sweetness make it an absolute essential in any Milano visit.
There you have it, the top 10 must-try foods to experience Milan’s vibrant culinary landscape. Each one reflects a slice of Milan’s rich heritage, craftsmanship, and a deep sense of love for good food. With every bite, these dishes tell stories of this city’s bustling markets, of generational recipes, and of Milan’s dynamic culinary evolution. Relish each dish in these recommended places to truly grasp their essence, leaving you with tastes that linger and memories that endure. From us to you, while in Milan, “Mangiare bene e godere la vita” – “Eat well and enjoy life!”. Be sure to check back soon for more culinary adventures and epicurean insights from around the globe.
