5 places to discover the Navigli in Milan

Everyone calls it Peppuccio, after its owner, and it looks like any other bar/tobacco shop. Perhaps that is why the radical chic crowd loves this place so much. Well, and then there’s also the jazz improv in front of the counter – Peppuccio is also a jazz musician. A popular place with models, students, ‘sciure’ (ladies in Milanese), musicians and passers-by in no specific order.

Never out of style, despite the volatility of the Milanese, who continue to love this cocktail bar that is slightly off-piste from the Naviglio, with its modern-industrial decor. The mixed drinks, and the excellent gins especially, together with the kitchen, which is open well into the wee hours, are its strong points. A creation of Elita, who organises many events in the city.

Ugo, a completely different, retro place, which resembles a Parisian salon, is just a short distance from Elita BAR. Even the cocktails, which accompany your aperitif served at the table, sometimes have a vintage look and feel. Ask barman Luca Vezzali for advice about more creative options. Small tables outside.

Exposed bricks, a large bar, an impressive line-up of bottles and a crowd that is used to drinking and eating well. Take a seat at the tables and enjoy the nibbles that are prepared to order and always different. And if you want, you can even stay for dinner.

This bar takes its name from the owner, Gianfranco Morgante, the architect who transformed a former art gallery into a cocktail bar with a kitchen, in the historic Vicolo dei Lavandai. Over 150 options on the sophisticated drinks menu, which you can pair with freshly-cooked food. A relaxing corner in the bustling Navigli.