Food of Milan: Top 10 Dishes You Must Eat in Milan
Want to explore the food of Milan, Italy? Then you need to know the must-eat dishes and where to find them! Luckily, this Milan food guide is here to help you with your gastronomic journey!
Known as the fashion capital of Italy, Milan is not just renowned for its stylish boutiques and impressive architecture. The city also boasts a strong culinary heritage that is deeply rooted in tradition and history.
So, although the Duomo di Milano in the city center is one of the most impressive cathedrals I’ve ever seen, I think the Milan food is hands down the best part of this Italian city!
Don't miss the Duomo di Milano while exploring the delicious Milanese food.
Food of Milan: Milanese Cuisine
I’ve visited Milan many times, and the thing I most look forward to before each trip is the Milanese cuisine. After all, Italian food is not all the same. Since Italian cuisine is regional, the food in Milano differs from the food in Rome, Bologna, Venice, and Florence. The authentic traditional foods of each of these amazing cities can be difficult to find outside of their respective regions: Lazio, Emilia-Romagna, Veneto, and Tuscany.
That means you don’t typically find the traditional dishes of Milan outside the region of Lombardy. So, when in Milano, eat Milano specialties!
What makes Milanese cuisine unique?
In addition to the specific specialties, there are two things that make the food of Milan different from most Italian cuisines.
First, traditional Milanese cuisine, like French Cuisine, uses a lot of butter. The Milanese still use olive oil, but they cook with way more butter than is the norm in most other parts of Italy.
Second, there is more risotto and polenta than pasta on Milanese menus. When you think Italian food, you think pasta, right? But in Milan cuisine, risotto and polenta are even more popular than pasta!
What is “alla Milanese”?
When you see "alla Milanese" on a menu, it refers to a dish that is prepared in the style of Milan. In other words, the dish in question is made using the traditional culinary techniques and ingredients called for in a recipe originating in the city of Milan.
On menus in the U.S., the dish most often accompanied by an “alla Milanese” description is a breaded cutlet or steak. Sauces vary from simple lemon juice and butter to something creamy and cheesy or a combination of mushrooms, tomatoes, and onions.
In Milan, “alla Milanese” refers to all the wonderful Milano foods below!
Milan Food Scene
Whether you're looking for street food, casual trattorias, or Michelin-starred restaurants, Milan has it all.
The Milan, Italy food scene is as vibrant and diverse as the city itself. Milan has always been a melting pot of influences. From ancient Roman traditions to modern-day innovations, the food scene here offers a delightful tapestry of tastes.
My suggestion on how to eat Milan: Focus on the local cuisine—the traditional dishes of Milano!
Food of Milan: Traditional Dishes You Must Eat in Milan
Learning about these traditional dishes allows you to delve into the heart of Milanese culture. Each bite tells a story—of generations past who passed down these recipes, of local artisans who take pride in their craft, and of a city that values tradition while embracing innovation.
Food of Milan: Panettone, breads, and sweets
1. Risotto alla Milanese: A Milan Famous Food
What food is Milan known for? Risotto alla Milanese is one of Milan's most famous dishes recognized worldwide.
This special saffron-infused rice dish originated in the city during the Renaissance period. Today, it’s a staple on menus not only in restaurants in Milan, but also in Italian restaurants around the globe.
To create the perfect Milanese risotto, chefs use Arborio or Carnaroli rice. These varieties have a high starch content, which gives risotto its characteristic creaminess. And, of course, lots of butter helps too!
The precious spice, saffron, adds a vibrant yellow color and unique flavor that only real saffron threads can impart.
Lodigiano, an Italian cheese similar to Parmigiano Reggiano, plays an essential role in enhancing the richness of this classic dish from Milan. The cheese is grated into the saffron risotto towards the end of cooking, melting into each grain of rice and adding a savory note to balance out the sweetness of saffron.
This creamy risotto is one of the most popular side dishes in Milan. But the luscious regional specialty is also served as a main course too.
Milanese risotto is definitely one of the best things to eat in Milan. And it’s easy to find—simply try one of the restaurants on the list below.
A famous Milan food, Risotto alla Milanese, served as a main course for dinner.
2. Ossobuco: A Must-Eat in Milan
Another famous food in Milan, Ossobuco, or Osso Buco, translates to "bone with a hole.” This traditional Milanese dish is made from cross-cut veal shanks and is served on the bone.
The bone hole filled with bone marrow is one of the distinguishing features of Ossobuco. It is customary to use a small fork to indulge in the delicacy.
Not only do I think this dish is something you must eat in Milan, but it’s something you should try at more than one restaurant if possible. I promise, your taste buds will thank you!
The last time I was in Milan, I think I ate Ossobuco every day. I may have gone overboard, but every restaurant has its own version, so no two were the same. And since I was out to find the best Milanese food in Milan, my efforts were for a very worthy cause!
Ossobuco in Milan will most probably be different than what you’ll find in your hometown Italian restaurant. In the U.S., the whole shank is usually served. In Milan, the top will be cut-off, so your serving will appear flatter.
Sauces may also differ, but typically, aromatic vegetables such as onions, carrots, and celery are sautéed with white wine and made into a braising liquid. As the meat simmers, the liquid infuses the meat, and in turn the juices from the veal contribute to creating a rich sauce.
In Milan, the final touch is a sprinkle of Gremolata, a mixture of lemon zest, garlic, and parsley.
All of the best Ossobucos have one thing in common—the veal is so tender that it falls off the bone and melts in your mouth.
Ossobuco, a must-eat in Milan, paired with a rich side of Risotto alla Milanese
3. Cotoletta alla Milanese: a Popular Milan Food
Cotoletta alla Milanese, also known as a Milanese cutlet, is a breaded veal cutlet. The breading process involves dipping pounded veal cutlets into beaten eggs and then coating them with breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan cheese.
The breaded veal cutlets are then pan-fried in butter until they achieve a beautiful golden brown color. The exterior will be crispy and the inside will be nice and tender.
Traditionally prepared using veal, variations of this dish have emerged using chicken or pork as well.
The cutlet is often accompanied by a side of lemon wedges and served alongside a fresh salad. Some restaurants in Milan serve their Cotolette on Michetta bread rolls, creating a delectable sandwich-like experience.
Food historians trace this classic dish back to the 12th century when it was first prepared to honor Saint Ambrogio, the protector of Milan.
Nowadays, Milanese cutlet is one of the most popular foods in Milan and the Lombardy region, and both saints and sinners are allowed to partake.
Cotoletta alla Milanese, a popular Milan food you should try.
4. Polenta: A Staple Milanese Food
Polenta is a beloved dish at the center of northern Italian cuisine. It is a staple food that has been enjoyed for centuries by the Milanese people.
It is traditionally made by boiling cornmeal in water or stock and then stirring it until it becomes thick in texture. The polenta is then poured into a bowl and served hot, or onto a wooden surface and left to cool before being cut into slices.
Polenta has a long history in northern Italy and is widely regarded as comfort food. The origins of this Milanese food can be traced back to the 16th century when maize was introduced to Italy. Maize was initially considered a crop for the poor as it was cheaper than wheat.
However, the people of Milan quickly realized the versatility of the grain and started incorporating it into their daily diets. Over time, polenta became a staple dish in Milanese households and was often served as a substitute for bread.
Today, polenta is typically served as a side dish or as a main course accompanied by various toppings such as sausages, stews, or cheeses. In fact, many of the dishes on this food of Milan list are often served with polenta!
Polenta topped with stew, a staple of Milanese cuisine
5. Gorgonzola: A Creamy Italian Blue Cheese
Gorgonzola cheese, a must-try for cheese lovers, has its roots in the town of Gorgonzola near Milan.
This creamy blue cheese is famous for its distinct blue veins that run through its smooth and velvety texture. Its origins can be traced back to the 9th century when it was first made by local farmers in the region.
The flavor of Gorgonzola is rich and tangy, with a perfect balance of creaminess and pungency. It offers a unique combination of palate pleasers, with hints of sweetness that add depth to every bite. This makes it an exceptional choice for those who appreciate bold and complex tastes.
One of the remarkable characteristics of Gorgonzola is its versatility. It can be enjoyed on its own or used as an ingredient in various dishes to elevate their flavors.
In Milan, you’ll find it crumbled over a salad, melted into pasta sauces, and included on cheese and charcuterie boards focused on local products.
One of the best pizzas I ever had anywhere was in Milan, and it had Gorgonzola crumbled on top of it. Even if you’ve tried this cheese before, experience it in Milan; I believe it’s even better in its place of origin.
One of the best ways to enjoy Gorganzola, in a creamy sauce over gnocchi
6. Panettone: Milan's Iconic Christmas Cake
Panettone is the quintessential sweet bread loaf that originated in Milan, Italy, and has become synonymous with the Christmas season.
My family eats this famous Milan food every year for Christmas breakfast. It’s the ultimate Italian breakfast pastry! In Milanese culture, Panettone isn't just reserved for breakfast; it's often enjoyed throughout the day with coffee or even paired with sweet wine after meals.
Authentic Milanese recipes combine flour, sugar, butter, eggs, and yeast along with raisins and other dried fruit. The light and fluffy texture characteristic of this cake-like bread is studded with sweetness and chewiness imparted by the fruits.
The origins of Panettone can be traced back to the 15th century when it was first created by a skilled baker named Toni during the reign of Duke Ludovico Sforza. The Duke loved the creation and called the original recipe “pan di Toni,” the name that ultimately morphed into “Panettone.”
Panettone, the most famous Christmas holiday food of Milan
7. Cassoeula: Comfort Food in Milan
Cassoeula, a pork and cabbage stew, is a dish that holds a special place in the hearts of Milanese locals. It has been enjoyed for generations during the colder months, with each family adding their own twist to the recipe.
The main ingredients include cabbage, onions, carrots, celery, tomatoes, and pretty much any part of the pig. It is often served with polenta or mashed potatoes, providing a satisfying accompaniment to this rustic dish.
One of the secrets to Cassoeula's mouthwatering taste is its slow cooking process. The stew simmers gently on the stove for hours, allowing the meat to tenderize and all of the flavors to come together perfectly.
There is one day that all of the people of Milan eat Cassoeula—January 17th, the feast day of Saint Anthony the Abbot, who happens to be the patron saint of butchers and pigs.
Cassoeula, a mouthwatering comfort food in Milan
8. Minestrone alla Milanese: A MilaN Classic
We cannot talk about the food of Milan without mentioning the classic vegetable soup Minestrone.
Traditional recipes for the Italian soup feature an assortment of seasonal vegetables like carrots, celery, zucchini, beans, and tomatoes cooked in a flavorful broth.
The soup is simmered slowly to allow all the ingredients to marry together harmoniously.
Many regions lay claim to the origins of Minestrone soup. What makes Minestrone Milanese different is that it uses rice instead of the pasta that is used in other regions where the soup is a staple.
Minestrone Milanese can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal or served as an appetizer before indulging in other traditional Milanese dishes.
Minestrone Milanese, a classic in Milan cuisine, uses rice instead of pasta.
9. Busecca: A True Taste of Lombardy
For those seeking something adventurous, trippa alla milanese, known as Busecca, is a must. Made from beef tripe—the edible lining of a cow's stomach—this hearty stew reflects the resourcefulness ingrained in Italian cooking traditions.
The dish exemplifies the rustic charm of Milanese cuisine. Historically considered peasant food, it transforms humble ingredients into something extraordinary through slow simmering and careful seasoning.
The combination of tender tripe with beans, vegetables, herbs, and spices creates a rich and flavorful broth that can truly be quite tasty.
Busecca, something for adventurous foodies that travel to Milan
10. Mondeghili: A Traditional Milanese Dish
Mondeghili, also known as Milanese meatballs, is a food Milan locals love!
Milanese meatballs are typically made with beef or pork, but variations can include chicken or fish. What distinguishes them from typical Italian meatballs is that the recipe begins with meat that has already been cooked!
Typically, leftover cooked meat is combined with bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, and spices to form balls. These are fried until golden brown and served with a rich tomato sauce.
Mondeghili are often enjoyed as an appetizer or as part of a main course alongside creamy polenta or risotto. They are usually accompanied by a glass of red wine.
The history of Mondeghili in Milan dates back to the 15th century, when the meatballs were initially created as a way to use leftover meat. Over time, the dish became a staple meal for locals, especially during the colder months of the year.
Mondeghili, a traditional Milanese dish
Bonus Drink: Negroni Sbagliato
One night during aperitivo, instead of a spritz or a glass of wine, try a Negroni Sbagliato. My husband is a big fan of the original Negroni, which originated in Florence, but I prefer this bubbly, lighter version that replaces gin with Prosecco.
The word "sbagliato" means "messed up" or "mistaken" in Italian, which refers to the legend behind Negroni Sbagliato’s creation in Milan. As the surprisingly simple story goes, a bartender at Bar Basso accidentally grabbed a bottle of sparkling wine instead of gin while making a Negroni—and the happy accident resulted in the birth of the Negroni Sbagliato.
Although the Negroni Sbagliato is a relatively new cocktail (first mistakenly mixed in 1972), it has gained popularity in recent years. It is a great choice for those who love the Negroni but who are in the mood for something a little less potent with a touch of effervescence.
Food of Milan: Traditional Milanese restaurants
Now that you know what to eat in Milan, you need to know where to eat in Milan!
It may be obvious, but the best places to eat the local food of Milan is at the restaurants and trattorias that specialize in authentic Milanese cuisine.
Sounds easy, right? Not exactly! There are soooo many restaurants in this city, it can be difficult to successfully avoid the tourist traps.
So, to help you find find the best food in Milan, here are some of my favorite traditional Milanese restaurants in downtown Milan.
La Dogana del Buongusto
This is a charming restaurant serving some of the best Milanese food in Milan. You’ll find top-notch Ossobuco, risottos, and one of the hugest Cotoletta alla Milanese in the city.
Address: Via Molino delle Armi, 48, 20123 Milano MI, Italy
The traditional Milanese restaurant, La Dogana del Buongusto
Al Garghet
If you want to eat like a local in Milan, this rustic trattoria is a great choice. Milan foodies know this is a great place for local specialties like Mondeghili and some of the harder-to-find menu items in town, like Trippa alla Milanese.
Address: Via Selvanesco, 36, 20141 Milano MI, Italy
Solferino
Located in the trendy Brera district, Solferino offers a refined blend of traditional and innovative dishes. Definitely come if you visit Milan during the Christmas holiday season; this restaurant goes all out with elaborate decorations.
Address: Via Castelfidardo, 2, 20121 Milano MI, Italy
The Solferino Restaurant in Milan festively decorated at Christmastime
Antica Trattoria Della Pesa
Going strong since 1880, this historic restaurant serves local fare and Italian favorites. Try the Spinach Gnocchi with Gorgonzola—a yummy way to sample the local blue cheese.
Address: Viale Pasubio, 10, 20154 Milano MI, Italy
Trattoria del Nuovo Macello
This family-run trattoria is one of the best places to taste traditional Milanese cuisine. The tasting menu is pretty reasonable, and it’s a great way to sample a number of the classic Milan foods in one meal.
Address: Via Cesare Lombroso, 20, 20137 Milano MI, Italy
Ristorante Piazza Republica
Ristorante Piazza Republica is a must-visit for truffle lovers like me. They have a whole truffle menu with both white and black truffle dishes offered. Their Tagliolini al Tartufo may be the best pasta dish in Milan!
Address: Via Aldo Manuzio, 11, 20124 Milano MI, Italy
The Tagliolini al Tartufo at Ristorante Piazza Republica may be the best pasta in Milan!
Osteria alla Grande
For homestyle eats, Milan offers this very affordable Milano osteria with a small menu and a pub-like atmosphere.
Address: Via delle Forze Armate, 405, 20152 Milano MI, Italy
Ratanà
I don’t think there’s a better place for traditional Risotto alla Milanese than Ratanà. Chef Cesare Battisti is dedicated to preserving this authentic Milanese recipe!
Address: Via Gaetano de Castillia, 28, 20124 Milano MI, Italy
FAQS About THE Food of Milan
If you elect to take the tour or cooking class described below, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you. For more information, see my Affiliate Policy.
1. What is the Best Food Tour in Milan?
The Milan Food Walking Tour of Brera is my pick! It’s a great way to explore Brera, one of Milan’s hippest and most delicious neighborhoods! You’ll enjoy a variety of Milanese specialties via stops at top restaurants, cafes, and markets. Your expert guide will also fill you in on the history and architecture of Milan while you take in the sights, sounds, and flavors of this exciting bohemian enclave.
2. Is it easy to find vegetarian options in Milan?
Yes, Milan caters to diverse dietary preferences. Many restaurants provide vegetarian and vegan options that showcase the creativity of Italian cuisine using fresh ingredients.
3. What is the best time to visit Milan for food lovers?
Anytime is a great time to visit Milan for food lovers! However, if you want to experience the festive spirit of the end-of-year holiday season and indulge in seasonal specialties like Panettone, visiting during Christmastime is highly recommended.
4. Are there any food markets worth visiting in Milan?
Absolutely! Mercato di Via Fauché is one of the most popular food markets in Milan, where you can find fresh produce, regional delicacies, and other local products. Mercato Metropolitano is another vibrant market offering an array of gourmet treats.
5. Can I learn how to cook traditional Milano dishes during my visit?
Yes! The Pasta & Risotto Cooking Class in Milan & Market Food Tour is one of the best ways! In this wonderfully unique cooking experience, you’ll visit a local market with your chef, browsing the amazing selection of fresh produce, meats, and seafood, meeting with local vendors, and selecting ingredients to be used in preparing your meal. After hands-on instruction in crafting authentic, traditional dishes, you’ll enjoy the fruits of your labor: a full meal of the items you’ve prepared, complete with dessert, wine, and convivial conversation with your new foodie friends!
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