What to Eat in Milan: 7 Must-Try Dishes and Where to Find Them
Discover what to eat in Milan with these 7 must-try dishes, from Risotto to Panettone, and find the best spots to enjoy authentic Milanese flavors like a local.
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Milan is a city renowned for its style, art and vibrant energy, but it’s also a food lover’s paradise with flavors that are just as impressive. From time-honored Milanese classics to hidden gems that locals adore, the culinary scene here is full of unique tastes that offer a true feeling of the city’s rich history and modern flair. So let's dive into what to eat in Milan.
The 7 Traditional Milanese Dishes You Can’t Miss
Whether you’re a fan of creamy risottos, crispy cutlets, or indulgent pastries, Milan offers something for every palate. In this guide, we’ll explore seven must-try dishes and show you exactly where to find them, so you can savor the authentic flavors of Milan like a true local.
1 - Risotto alla Milanese
Golden and creamy, Risotto alla Milanese is one of Milan’s most iconic dishes, known for its vibrant yellow color, thanks to the luxurious addition of saffron. This dish is rich, velvety, and slightly creamy, with a subtle earthiness from the saffron that makes it both fragrant and flavorful. Prepared traditionally with Arborio or Carnaroli rice, butter, and a touch of Parmigiano Reggiano, Risotto alla Milanese embodies the elegance and warmth of Milanese cuisine.
Where to Try It in Milan:
- Il Luogo da Aimo e Nadia: A Michelin-starred experience, where traditional flavors meet high-end dining.
- Trattoria Milanese Dal 1933: A cozy, authentic spot beloved by locals for traditional Milanese dishes.
- Trattoria da Abele Temperanza: Established in 1979, this traditional trattoria is renowned for its dedication to Milanese cuisine, particularly its risotto dishes.
2 - Ossobuco
Ossobuco, meaning “bone with a hole”, is a Milanese specialty featuring tender, slow-cooked veal shanks braised in a savory sauce of white wine, broth, onions and vegetables. This rich, melt-in-your-mouth dish is often paired with Risotto alla Milanese, creating a perfect balance of flavors, with the creamy risotto complementing the hearty meat. The true highlight of Ossobuco is the marrow inside the bone, adding a deep, rich flavor that food lovers can’t resist.
Where to Try It in Milan:
- Antica Trattoria della Pesa: A classic spot for traditional Milanese dishes in an elegant, old-world setting.
- Trattoria Masuelli San Marco: This historic restaurant offers a beautifully prepared Ossobuco paired with risotto, served with a touch of rustic charm.
- Ristorante Ratanà: Modern twist on Milanese classics in a beautifully restored building; Ossobuco prepared with premium ingredients.
3 - Cotoletta alla Milanese
A Milanese icon, Cotoletta alla Milanese is a breaded veal cutlet fried until golden and crispy. Similar to a schnitzel, this dish is made unique by its preparation with veal rib, leaving the bone attached and giving it a juicy, tender texture inside with a crunchy coating outside. Traditionally fried in clarified butter, Cotoletta alla Milanese is beloved for its rich flavor and perfect balance of crispiness and tenderness.
Where to Try It in Milan:
- Ristorante Al Mercante: Known for its authentic Cotoletta, prepared following Milanese traditions, in a cozy, rustic setting.
- Trattoria del Nuovo Macello: This spot offers a slightly modern take on the classic, using premium ingredients while staying true to tradition.
- Osteria Brunello: A favorite among locals, famous for its perfectly golden Cotoletta with a touch of finesse and a cozy ambiance.
4 - Mondeghili
Mondeghili are delicious Milanese meatballs, a humble yet flavorful dish that traces its roots back to Spanish rule in the region. Made from a mix of minced leftover meats—typically beef, sausage, and sometimes mortadella—these meatballs are seasoned with breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic, parsley, and sometimes a touch of lemon zest for added freshness.
They are fried to a golden crisp, creating a crunchy outer layer and a tender, flavorful inside. Mondeghili are commonly served as a starter or as a component of a more substantial meal.
Where to Try It in Milan:
- Trippa: A modern restaurant that celebrates traditional Milanese dishes, serving a flavorful version of Mondeghili with a contemporary touch.
- Trattoria Mirta: Known for its dedication to Milanese comfort food, Mirta’s Mondeghili are loved for their rich, homemade taste.
- Un Posto a Milano: Located in a charming farmhouse setting, this spot offers Mondeghili with a rustic feel, using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients.
5 - Panettone
Panettone is a sweet, fluffy bread loaf that’s become an Italian holiday staple, originating right here in Milan. Traditionally enjoyed during Christmas, Panettone is made with a rich, buttery dough that’s carefully leavened to create its signature airy texture.
It’s studded with candied fruits, raisins, and sometimes chocolate or other treats, giving it a delightful blend of sweetness and a subtle, citrusy aroma. Each bakery in Milan has its own twist, making it a fun and delicious experience to try different variations.
Where to Try It in Milan:
- Pasticceria Marchesi 1824: One of Milan’s oldest pastry shops, Marchesi’s Panettone is renowned for its soft texture and perfect balance of flavors.
- Panificio Davide Longoni: Known for artisanal baking, Longoni offers a rustic, handcrafted Panettone made with high-quality, natural ingredients.
- Pavé: A modern bakery with a loyal following, Pavé’s Panettone is light, fragrant, and often features innovative flavor twists.
6 - Cassoeula
Cassoeula is a hearty, traditional winter dish from Milan, perfect for cold days when comfort food is a must. Made with pork (often including ribs, sausage and other cuts) and stewed with cabbage, this dish has a rich, robust flavor that reflects the rustic side of Milanese cuisine. The slow-cooked pork melds with the cabbage, creating a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s best enjoyed with a glass of red wine.
Where to Try It in Milan:
- El Barbapedana: At El Barbapedana, the cassoeula is prepared following time-honored recipes, ensuring an authentic taste that resonates with both locals and visitors.
- Galeria Antica Trattoria: At Galeria Antica Trattoria, their Cassoeula is a standout dish, crafted with tender pork cuts and slow-cooked cabbage, reflecting Milanese tradition.
- La Cassoeula del Togn: At La Cassoeula del Togn, their signature cassoeula combines premium pork cuts and fresh cabbage, slow-cooked to perfection. Established in 1945, it offers a cozy taste of Milanese tradition.
7 - Trippa alla Milanese (Busecca)
Trippa alla Milanese, also known as Busecca, is a classic Milanese dish that showcases the city’s love for hearty, comforting fare. Made from tripe, this dish is cooked slowly with tomatoes, beans, carrots, and onions, creating a flavorful stew that’s both satisfying and nourishing.
Traditionally served during festive occasions, Busecca is a staple of Milanese cuisine and reflects the region’s agricultural roots. With a rich, savory broth and tender pieces of tripe, it’s a dish that has long warmed the hearts of Milan’s residents.
Where to Try It in Milan:
- Al Garghet: Charming trattoria in Parco Agricolo Sud, featuring a menu in Milanese dialect with a delicious Trippa alla Milanese.
- Trattoria San Filippo Neri: Located on Viale Monza 220, this trattoria is celebrated for its authentic Milanese cuisine. Their Trippa alla Milanese is a standout dish, prepared with traditional ingredients and cooked to perfection, offering a hearty and flavorful experience.
If you’re planning a trip to Milan and want to pair these culinary delights with the city’s must-see attractions, check out our guide: 2 Days in Milan Itinerary: Unmissable Sights and Tips for a Perfect Weekend. This itinerary will help you explore the best of Milan’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems while savoring the city’s exceptional cuisine, making your weekend getaway truly unforgettable.
Conclusion
Milan’s culinary scene is a journey through rich traditions and authentic flavors that reflect the city’s vibrant culture and history. From the creamy saffron-infused Risotto alla Milanese to the indulgent sweetness of Panettone, each dish tells a story of Milanese heritage.
Whether you’re visiting a rustic trattoria or a modern eatery, these seven must-try dishes will immerse you in the heart of Milan’s gastronomy, offering an unforgettable taste of the city’s soul. Bon appétit—or as the Milanese say, Buon appetito!
