5 trattorias to experience authentic cuisine in Milan

Returning to this inn from the early 1900s, with its authentic popular atmosphere, is always a pleasure. Antique interior and a small terrace outside. The menu is reassuring, with simple dishes and main courses of meat, which is boiled, stewed, and braised, as well as the typical veal Milanese, of course.

The sight of white tablecloths, 1930s chandeliers by Venini – designed by Giò Ponti – and Thonet chairs from the 1920s has been a familiar one for customers of this ‘historic shop’ for three generations. Just like the flavours of Lombardic-Piedmontese cuisine that chef Max Masuelli reinvents here, with a contemporary twist. Try the bone-in veal Milanese.

This is a modern trattoria where the dishes are inspired by the tradition of central Italy, more specifically from the regions of Le Marche and Abruzzo, but with a contemporary twist and with great respect for ingredients and preparation. Chef Achille Esposito is young and talented, and the location has a simple, almost minimal look, with lots of thought given to the interior design. Try the Milano-Abruzzo risotto.

Founded by Diego Rossi – who previously worked in the kitchens of Norbert Niederkofler and Alfio Ghezzi, who have 3 and 2 Michelin stars respectively – serving a neo-trattoria cuisine. The two rooms are welcoming, from the counter you can see the kitchen and the chef’s naughty (and slightly hipstery) moustache.

A real institution (since 1927), this osteria is situated on the city’s fringe, at one end of Via Padova, the multicultural heart of Milan. An old-fashioned trattoria with wood panelling, chequered tablecloths, that serves simple Lombardy fare. Gianni Versace famously used the restaurant as a backdrop for a photo shoot.