Must-try Dishes
Colazione Italiana - Italian Breakfast - A simple spread with fresh bread, butter, and jam, often paired with yogurt and a slice of cheese. Locals typically enjoy it at home before heading to work, usually around 8 AM.
Arancini - Stuffed Rice Balls - Crispy on the outside, these balls are filled with risotto, often containing meat or peas, and coated in breadcrumbs. A favorite street food, you'll find them at small shops during lunch hours; they’re quite filling!
Risotto alla Milanese - Milanese Risotto - Creamy risotto made with Arborio rice, flavored with saffron, giving it a beautiful golden color. This dish is often served during family dinners or special occasions, symbolizing the warmth of Milanese hospitality.
Osso Buco - Braised Veal Shanks - Tender veal shanks slowly cooked with wine, broth, and aromatic vegetables until melting off the bone, usually served with gremolata. It’s a beloved local specialty often enjoyed in traditional trattorias, especially on Sundays.
Pizza al Taglio - Pizza by the Slice - This is thick, soft crust pizza that’s baked in large rectangular trays and sold by weight. Locals often grab a piece for a quick lunch; it's perfect for those on the go or dining in the park.
Farro Salad - Insalata di Farro - A hearty mix of farro, seasonal vegetables, and local cheese tossed with a zesty dressing. Popular in the spring and summer months, it's often ordered at outdoor cafes for a light, refreshing lunch.
Pasta alla Pomodoro - Pasta with Tomato Sauce - Simple yet flavorful, this dish features al dente pasta tossed with a rich tomato sauce and a sprinkle of fresh basil. Commonly served at family gatherings, it’s a classic comfort food that evokes the essence of home-cooked meals.
By the way, locals often enjoy their meals at a leisurely pace, so don’t be surprised if dinner starts around 8 PM!
Desserts & Drinks
Caffè corretto - Caffè corretto (espresso with a twist) - A shot of rich espresso “corrected” with a splash of grappa or sambuca. Locals often order this after meals, savoring it as a digestivo to enhance flavors, especially after a hearty dinner.
Aperitivo - Aperitivo (pre-meal drink) - A light, refreshing cocktail usually made with Aperol, Campari, or vermouth, diluted with prosecco or soda. It’s common to enjoy this around sunset in outdoor bars, accompanied by little snacks like olives or chips, making it a perfect start to the evening.
Torta della Nonna - Torta della Nonna (grandmother’s cake) - A creamy custard tart, lovingly encased in a buttery pastry crust and dusted with pine nuts. Typically served chilled on special occasions or during family gatherings, it always brings a sense of nostalgia.
Gelato - Gelato (Italian ice cream) - Creamier and denser than regular ice cream, this frozen delight is crafted with fresh fruits or rich chocolate. Found everywhere in Milan, it’s usually enjoyed as a midday treat, with locals opting for classic flavors like pistachio or stracciatella.
Panettone - Panettone (Christmas sweet bread) - A tall, dome-shaped bread studded with candied fruit and raisins, traditionally enjoyed during the holiday season. Famously served with a glass of sweet wine, it embodies festive warmth, though you’ll find it year-round in many bakeries (just ask for a slice!).
