Last month, I went to stay at my friend Olga's apartment in Milan. Despite having visited Milan several times before, this trip marked the first time I truly felt immersed in the city. There's nothing like exploring with a local who knows all the hidden gems, and let me assure you, Olga is a master at uncovering the best spots!
Our shared passion for stunning architecture, vintage treasures, handcrafted and independent brands, as well as delicious food, made my days in Milan truly memorable. Naturally most of our itinerary revolved around eating in various corners of the city and indulging in coffee culture, sipping teeny tiny coffee’s like a true Italian standing at a bar.
I'm excited to share some of my favourite discoveries, thanks to Olga's fabulous introductions. Stay tuned as I plan to explore even more places on my next visit to Milan later this year!
Eat.
Via Stampa.
“Via Stampa is the art of good living and living in beauty, it is a passion for the land and sincere food, it is a gathering for curious minds with a desire for deep conversations to flourish. A bistrot between classic and contemporary. Authentic cuisine with decisive flavors. Wines with strong personality. Attention to the sustainable quality of raw materials. An ode to micro-seasonality.
For lunch, aperitifs and dinner.”
We were invited her to have a 3-course lunch, which you can find out more via my previous journal post.
Location: Via Stampa, 8, 20123 Milano MI, Italy
Visit: https://www.viastampa.it
The Bar at Ralph Lauren
The bar at Ralph Lauren may not be top of my foodie list, however when visiting the fashion capital a trip here seemed like a must! If you can’t afford anything from the ludicrously expensive menu, then ask to stand at the bar and take a coffee and soak in the stylish and oh so overpriced ambiance.
Location: Via della Spiga, 5, 20121 Milano MI, Italy
Visit: https://www.ralphlauren.co.uk/en/global/milan-restaurant/712799
Marchesi 1824
This is Milan most famous pastry shop, with its incredible reputation as some of the finest Italian desserts in the world, Marchesi is an absolute must-see when you visit Milan. We had a coffee at the bar and admired all their beautifully packaged products.
Location: Via Santa Maria Alla Porta 11/a, 20123 Milan Italy.
Visit: https://www.pasticceriamarchesi.com/gb/en.html
Il Pane della ripa
We popped in here to grab something delicious for breakfast whilst we were walking around the vintage market. This place is super authentic and had so many delicious and affordable bites it was hard to choose just one.
Location: Ripa di Porta Ticinese, 55, 20143 Milano MI, Italy
Égalité
Égalité is a French boulangerie, located in the heart of Porta Venezia. We popped in here for some lunch, I chose a focaccia with salmon on salmon top. Next time I want to try one of their delightful looking quiches!
Location: Via Melzo, 22, 20129 Milano MI, Italy
Visit: https://www.egalitemilano.it
LùBar
I chose to include this place purely because of it beauty! Yes, the food was nice but it certainly was not the best I’ve had. The interiors are breathtaking and make you feel like you are truly some place special.
Location: Via Palestro, 16, 20121 Milano MI, Italy
Visit: https://www.lubar.it/en/