History of gastronomy in Milan
Milan’s rich past and modern landscape make it one of the tourists’ favorites. However, there’s much more to Milan than the historical landmarks. Its culinary scene tickles the taste buds and gives immense pleasure. If you are looking for a gastronomic delight in the shopping capital of Italy, you are in the right place. We’ve compiled a list of the best Milanese cuisines you should try, the restaurants that offer an unparalleled dining experience, and some insights into Milan’s food history. Let’s get started.
Milan Cuisine
The land in and around Milan has always been fertile. In ancient times, people grew considerable amounts of vegetables, fruits, and vines (to name a few). That explains the frequent use of homegrown ingredients in Italian cuisines. The meals were mostly simple yet full of nourishing ingredients. Here are a few famous Milanese cuisines.
Risotto: Milan’s classic that’s still as famous as it was in the past—was introduced during the period of Sforzas. It is a creamy golden dish featuring saffron imported from Arab countries. The mix of local ingredients with aromatic spices gives it a delicious taste.
Cololetta: Another culinary masterpiece that gained immense popularity in the 18th and 19th centuries was Cololetta, a dish that represented an incredible blend of Austrian and Milanese cuisines.
Panettone: This fluffy fruit bread was another popular Milanese cuisine that Toni, a famous baker of the time, introduced. It was commonly called Toni’s bread and eventually became Panettone.
As Milan’s industrial center transformed, several new cuisines emerged, and many local eateries started serving Italian dishes that were considered casual at the time.
What to Eat in Milan
The modern culinary scene in Milan is influenced by its past flavors and chefs. However, modern techniques and new ingredients are widely used to make Milanese food culture as diverse and delicious as possible. Let’s check out some must-try Italian foods in Milan.
Risotto alla Milanese
This delicacy is a creamy mix of rice, chicken, saffron, butter, and grated cheese. Risotto is famous for using the world’s most expensive spice—saffron, which gives it a deep yellow hue. The dish is served as a standalone item or with fried eggs.
Ossobuco
The super tender and juicy Ossobuco is among Milan’s special dishes. Made of veal shanks, the meat in this cuisine is cooked slowly until the bone falls off. Then, vegetables are tossed into the dish. In Milanese restaurants, Ossobuco is usually served with Risotto.
Polenta
Starting as a simple, nourishing, and fulfilling side dish in Italy, Polenta gradually became popular on Milan’s restaurant menus. Some restaurants serve it as their main dish, topped with veggies. The recipe is super simple, with cornmeal as the main ingredient. It’s boiled until a thick, creamy texture is achieved. Butter and cheese are also used to make it more creamy.
Panettone
The Christmas special Panettone is bought mainly as a festival gift. One of Milan’s staple foods, Panettone, is a fluffy bread filled with candied fruits and raisins. There’s a common belief in Italy that eating a dry slice of Panettone leftover from Christmas Day can guard you against cold and flu.
Top Restaurants in Milan
From high-end Milanese restaurants in Galleria Vittorio Emanuele to the local cafeteria on the famous streets, Milan’s diverse culinary scene makes it a hotspot for foodies. Check out these popular restaurants serving delicious meals if you are in Milan.
Best Restaurants in Milan With a View
Taste the phenomenal food of Milan with the top views. Whether it’s the bird’s-eye view of the Piazza Gae Aulenti or the restaurants across Duomo, the options are countless. If you want a pleasant atmosphere with a breathtaking view of the city, here are some options you can try:
- Ratana
- Trippa
- Langosteria
- Gastronomia Yamamoto
- 28 Posti
- Sidewalk Kitchens
- Mao Hunan Restaurant
Best Affordable Restaurants in Milan
If you don’t want to splash out on food in Milan, you can try places with affordable food. We’ve mentioned a few where the prices are reasonable, and the quality is great.
- Cesarino
- Mabuhay Restaurant
- Panzer
- Cinnamon Restaurant
- Tram
- Piz
Milanese cuisines you find today blend the flavors used in the past and some delicious recipes introduced by modern Italian chefs. The above-listed cuisines and restaurants are worth your time and money. Taste the deliciousness of the city at the best Milanese restaurants. Bone appetit!
