Milan

Fabrique

Fabrique Milan is a modern and even futuristic venue used for concerts, parties and other big events. They would like to call themselves a center and “factory” of events for music, entertainment, fashion, culture in the widest sense possible.

Fabrique is located in the Mecenate area near Linate airport and can house up to 3,100 people, which is the most in Milan after the Mediolanum Forum arena (originally the Forum di Assago). And because it also has multiple bars, a high stage, state-of-the-art audio and -lighting it attracts many famous performers like Dua Lipa, Sean Paul, DJ Hardwell, Shawn Mendes, Sting and The Game. Although it is not really a nightclub, it is absolutely possible that one your favorite artists or DJs will perform here sometime soon to bring you a great night full of music, performance and dance. That is the reason we have decided to add this venue to the list of the best clubs in Milan.

Terrazza Hotel dei Cavalieri

This rooftop bar is located on the top floor of Hotel dei Cavalieri in the historical city center of Milan. From here you have an excellent view on the baroque Church of Sant’Alessandro and the oldest roofs of the city. This is why the outdoor terrace is often used as a video location for films and commercials. So, after a day of sightseeing and shopping this is a real nice spot to enjoy the sunset with a cold drink in hand.

During weekends with nice weather it is advised to come early as the bar has limited outdoor space. During the cold months it is possible that the outdoor terrace will be closed. And in the warm months the Terrazza Hotel dei Cavalieri Milano offers Happy Hour, which is the classic Milanese aperitif with drinks, snacks and fingerfood, on the large panoramic terrace. If you wish to enjoy a beautiful panoramic view over the city then this is the best bar in Milan to visit.

Boscolo Restaurant & Bar

Boscolo restaurant & bar is located on the rooftop of the 5-star luxury hotel Boscolo Milano Autograph Collection which is in the middle of the fashion quadrilateral. This elegant rooftop terrace on the eighth floor has an exclusive ambiance and great views towards the Cathedral of Milan. When in Milan we from Meet The Cities like to sit here to enjoy the aperitif with a tasty buffet and watch the sunset over the city. If our schedule allows it we prefer to stay until the evening when the spires of the Cathedral become illuminated and the view even becomes more stunning. But also at this rooftop bar are the prices substantial.

Principe Bar at Hotel Principe di Savoia

The Principe Bar is a classy and chic bar at the famous Hotel Principe di Savoia. This hotel attracts many successful people like music artists, captains of industry and athletes, and so does its bar. Especially during the Milan Fashion Week is the glamorous Principe Bar the place to be for many models, designers and fashion icons. But also as a tourist you can visit this bar to do some celebrity spotting, or people watching.

The bar has a classic and colorful room with modern furniture, mirrors, colourful marbles, precious Italian fabrics, a large crystal chandelier, and a sculpted crystal bar which gives it its luxurious and chic ambiance. When the piano isn’t played there will be some nice lounge, jazz or avant-garde background music. At this bar you can choose from a 16-page drink menu with many delicious cocktails, but also the aperitivo is from highly recommended. And the service is excellent.

Radio Rooftop bar (ME Milan – Il Duca)

The cosmopolitan Radio Rooftop bar is a fashionable venue located on the tenth floor of the luxury five-star ME Milan Il Duca hotel. Radio Rooftop bar has an international vibe and the decoration reveals that the architect was inspired by the trendy rooftop terraces from New York. The bar is split into two indoor areas and two outdoor terraces.

During the good season the outdoor terrace is open from which you can catch a beautiful sunset over the skyline of the up and coming Porta Nuova – Varesine district. But all year round it is an excellent place to have a late night cocktail or to enjoy an aperitivo with tasty drinks and some delicious finger food and international tapas.

In the evening the lights will be dimmed and the DJ starts to play some funky deep-house and jazz tunes. An extra plus is the service oriented, well-mannered and friendly staff, which stands out positively in Milan. With great weather you have to be early for a spot on the outdoor terrace and it is advised to dress smart.

Terrazza Aperol

The Terrazza Aperol has a spectacular location and also a terrace in front of Milan’s cathedral that also overlooks the Piazza Duomo. When you’re facing the arch of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the balcony of Terrazza Aperol is on the right side of the entrance. Inside there is a modern designed lounge bar with orange nuances that represent the colors of Aperol. But with good weather you should definitely be on the outside terrace enjoying the great views.

Terrazza Aperol is a great place to have an aperitif at an exclusive, international and trend-setting spot. At the aperitif you will get one cocktail where you need to pay for, but the finger food and the great views are included. It is also a perfect place for a romantic drink together with your love. He or she will absolutely be impressed by the views.

The bar offers a wide assortment of (innovative) cocktails and some non-alcoholic variants. It shouldn’t surprise you that this place can become crowded. So if you are not early for the aperitif you won’t have a table and that means that you will have to stand with your cocktail. Terrazza Aperol is the place to be for Aperol Spritz minded people and people that prefer an accessible venue at one of the best locations in Milan imaginable. This exquisite cafe is certainly one of the best bars in Milan.

Mag Cafè

If you are looking to settle down at a terrace next to the romantic canals of Milan then Mag Café is exactly what you are searching for. This bar in Milan can be found next to the Naviglio Grande, which is a canal where the beating nightlife of Milan can be found and an abundance of restaurants.

It’s a traditional bar with a laid back atmosphere where you can enjoy various wines, beers, liquors and exquisite cocktails with a nice appetizer. But if you prefer a cup of traditional Italian coffee then they also have you covered. Mag cafè is not a luxury bar, but a warm, informal and popular destination for people who wish to catch up with friends or wish to unwind with their partner. It’s a bar with character, which certainly adds to the cozy unfettered atmosphere of the cafe. During a nice summer day you might prefer to sit outside and watch people pass by, which is also possible here as in front of the bar you will also find terrace seats overlooking the canals.

Duomo 21

Duomo 21 is a rooftop lounge bar in Milan right in the historical city center facing the Cathedral. It is actually next to the grand triumphal arch of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. It is the best sunny rooftop bar in Milan with a terrace view over the central square of Milan. This lounge bar is part of the TownHouse Galleria hotel and has become a popular after-work destination to enjoy an aperitivo. And at some evenings there is a dj which plays some nice tunes.

Duomo 21 is also an all-season destination as it has multi-level indoor spaces and two wonderful open-air terraces. The bar and restaurant offer great Martini cocktails, global wines, beers and great food, but people who come to Duomo 21 can expect more than just the food and drinks. People who come here can enjoy the location with the stunning panoramic views and they come to see and be seen. The entrance of Duomo 21 is a little hard to find, but when you are in front of the entrance of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II you must go left. After you’ve passed several door you will see a small entrance with signs of Duomo 21. Inside there is a doorman that will show you the elevator that brings you to the terrace.

Sky Terrace Milano Scala

In the city center bordering the artistic district of Milan called Brera you will find a hidden rooftop bar. This casual and surprisingly green bar overlooking the district of Brera is a modern oasis on top of the Hotel Milano Scala. Between your shopping trips is this a great bar to settle down at due to its convenient location and pleasing panoramic view. If you want to enjoy the sunset under the delight of a cocktail then Sky Terrace Milano Scala is certainly one of the best bars in Milan to visit. Note that you should reserve a seat up front, because it’s a popular spot in Milan among insiders.

Nottingham Forest

Nottingham Forest is a cocktail bar located near metro stations Porta Venezia and Palestro. Although this intimate bar is modest in size, their reputation is quite grand as it is often mentioned as arguably the best cocktail bar in Milan. And that is because of their creative and innovative way of mixing and preparing unique cocktails with for example fruits, tablets and dry ice. Inspired from tropical pleasures to eastern delicacies.

The barchefs at Nottingham Forest understand of the laws of chemistry and master the art of molecular mixology to intensify the flavours and affect the appearance of the cocktail. You will also be surprised by the amazing way they present their drinks. Examples are drinks in bath tubs, boxes and glasses within glasses. And the menu is huge, so even if you’re really picky there will be enough options to choose from. Nottingham Forest is open from Tuesday to Sunday, but if you want to visit this bar on a Friday or Saturday it is advised to come early because of their limited space.

Armani / Bamboo Bar

Located in the heart of Milan’s fashion district is the Armani / Bamboo bar. At this exclusive venue great hospitality, delicious drinks and light snacks are offered. The bar is on the seventh floor of the Armani building that also houses the Armani Hotel. Of course you will recognize that Giorgio Armani has designed the bar himself with the stylish decor and its louvre windows and exclusive and elegant ambience. From the Armani / Bamboo bar you will also enjoy an unique view accompanied by some lounge music.

This venue is suited for a wide range of occasions from a business meeting, a celebration to a moment of relaxing after a day of shopping. It is also the perfect place for an before dinner aperitivo with some high quality food. Be aware that this one of the more expensive bars in Milan, but the stylish experience, excellent service and stunning views (especially during sunset) towards the historical city centre are really worth it.

Camparino in Galleria

Arriving at this bar and restaurant within the chic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, which is often called the living room of Milan, and with a view on the landmark Duomo of Milan it feels like entered a fancy godfather movie, while in reality you have just discovered the touristic and cultural heart of Milan.

The inventor of the liqueur brand Campari opened this bar in 1867 and to this day you will get to experience the tasteful Campari cocktails here. For such a stylish cafe and restaurant at a premium location the prices are actually fairly reasonable. Camparino in Galleria is surrounded by luxury shops and the most notable museums of Milan, so if you are having a cultural day then this is a delightful place to settle down at between museum visits.

Just Cavalli Club restaurant & lounge

If you want to dine or drink in the pure luxury style of fashion icon Roberto Cavalli then his club in Milan is the place to be. Located next to Torre Branca in Sempione Park this fashionable lounge bar often hosts elite events, fashion shows, corporate parties, and luxury dining shows. In the weekends turns this bar into a nightclub after dining. And in the summer the nightclub moves to the outdoor area.

The Just Cavalli Club is decorated extravagant and opulent with lots of Roberto Cavalli’s characteristic antilope furs, zebra and leopard prints and lush oriental fabrics and makes it one of Milan’s most exclusive aperitifs. The signature cocktails in the lounge bar listen to names like Don Julio, Chocolate Maya and The Aviation in Rose. But they also offer drinks that includes Roberto Cavalli Vodka. It is no wonder that this place is often visited by models, captains of the fashion industry, artists and of course many fashion addicts that have a little extra to spend.

The Friends Pub Milano

The Friends Pub is a cozy British-style bar that has been established by four brothers. The bar offers a great selection of beers and lagers from Italy and several other countries like the UK. In this bar they show many football and rugby matches on tv screens. You also can get here some good and tasty food, like a big burger, fish & chips or beef, but also a pasta is possible. As the name of The Friends Pub Milano suggests, is it also a great spot to interact and meet with others. This is real easy and natural as the bar has a real friendly atmosphere. It was also the intention of the founders to create a so called public house like the ones in Great-Britain. This is why you will not only find locals here, but also tourists and foreigners that work in Milan.

Terrazza 12

Terrazza 12 is a chic and trendy rooftop bar with one of the best views over Milan’s historical city center. The bar is located on the top floor of the Brian & Barry Building, which is in heart of Milan’s fashion district just about a seven minute walk from the Duomo. In the summer you should enjoy the outdoor terrace, but in the winter it is also a great place to visit as it has large windows so that you can still enjoy the fantastic city view.

The interior has a modern and tasteful design inspired by the New York rooftop bars from the 1950s, which creates a cozy atmosphere. The bar has an international drink list with some great champagnes and cocktails but this spot is also very suited for a lunch or an after-work aperitif. It is not cheap, but the location, the atmosphere, the excellent drinks and the views make it all worth it.

Al Porto

In the canal district of Milan called Navigli you will find plenty of romantic restaurants to have a nice meal at, but our very favorite is Al Porto. This seafood restaurant has a comfortable and light interior reminds us of the inside of a ship. And a view into the green gardens of the restaurant. The restaurant is known for it’s quality seasonal seafood dishes, which go well with Italian pasta’s, and welcoming service. So when you visit Porta Ticinese then this is an excellent place to settle down at. As with many notable restaurants in Milan it’s important to make a reservation well in advance.

Terrazza Gallia

If you looking for an Italian luxury restaurant then Terrazza Gallia is for you. On top of the dignified Excelsior Hotel Gallia, which can be found next to the breathtaking central station of Milan and next to the Pirelli Tower, you can find this award winning Italian rooftop restaurant with a magnificent view over one of the busy squares of Milan. Of course you can also sit indoors with less of a view, so it’s useful to mention what kind of table you want to reserve. The menu is devised by three star michelin chefs who wanted to bring out the local flavours of the region. But for the adventurous food lover there is also a seasonal tasting menu where each dish comes with it’s own matching wine. The restaurant also offers private dining and has a bar with an expertise in cocktails.

Nabucco

After a day of shopping in the cultural district of Milan called Brera, you might want to sit down for a nice Italian meal. Nabucco is an excellent Italian restaurant that stands out as it offers a wide choice of varied meals, with a strong focus on local specialities. They have you covered regardless if you are looking for pasta’s, sea-bass or a proper steak. The meals have proper portions so you can be sure to leave satisfied. As the restaurant has a street terrace in the touristic part of town, you can sit down and enjoy the people who walk by as you enjoy your meal. If you are looking for a down to earth place in the heart of Milan without compromising on quality then Nabucco is the place to visit.

Ceresio 7

A rooftop restaurant, with a pool, a panoramic view of Milan and uniquely styled dishes. Ceresio 7 is a luxury restaurant that offers the complete experience. It caters to a wide audience, as it services people who come for a drink and a small bite around noon and the people looking for a culinary business dinner. Chic and trendy is an acquired taste, but the view certainly makes up for it. In the evening you can also enjoy a cocktail here at the bar while enjoying a spectacular sunset.

The Brisket Milano

The Brisket is an authentic steakhouse restaurant that prides itself on its slow cooking methods as they smoke the meat to perfection, keeping the meat as soft and juicy as possible, according to the Texan culinary tradition. The interior of the restaurant has a warm and raw feel to it, giving it a comfortable and informal atmosphere, making you feel right at home. The dishes are spot on and as expected with dishes such as Texan smoked briskets, pork ribs and smoked pork belly. So in short, this is certainly a steakhouse we recommend. The restaurant is also located in the Navigli district next to the romantic Naviglio Grande canal, which you should visit at least once when you are in Milan.

STK Milan

STK Milan is a hip restaurant for both meat and fish lovers where they set the mood for a social evening with a modern interior, dim lights and a DJ playing in the background. The restaurant also has an open cocktail bar inviting people to have a playful evening as they enjoy their dinner. The ambiance is perfect for having a dinner with friends. Many dishes stand out for their own unique twist, like the coconut fried halibut and tuna tartare, but the classic dishes like the sirloin wagyu are of course also available for the traditional meat connoisseur. STK certainly seems to aim at turning your evening into a fairly classy social experience, which means the restaurant is less suitable for a family dinner, but when you want to have a special evening out then it’s very worth visiting.

El Porteno Arena

El Porteno is a classic Argentinean steakhouse restaurant that hits all right notes. A nice variety in different meat dishes, which are served in good portions, Argentinian favorites such as stuffed pastries called empanadas, and a good selection of Italian and Argentinian wines. As usual with Argentinean restaurants it’s not that cheap, but you can be sure to leave here satisfied with a full belly. The service is also quite warm and friendly making it a welcoming place to visit. The restaurant can be found near the center of Milan, to the north of the central park, known as Sempione Park.

Yokohama Fusion Experience

Yokohama Fusion Experience is a sushi restaurant located in the very heart of Milan. It is actually one of the highest rated Japanese fusion restaurants in Milan and perfect for people who enjoy fresh fish and rich flavours. This elegantly designed restaurant spoils you by bringing the best of Japan to your table, but they also enjoy giving dishes their own unique twist to give the customer something they haven’t had before.

The menu of the restaurant is actually surprisingly rich, as besides sushi you will find meat skewers, fruit mixes, a variety of pasta dishes and a lot more. So it caters to a wide range of tastes. At Meet The Cities we certainly enjoyed the different flavours of this sushi restaurant and can recommend a visit to all seafood lovers.

Su Garden

Su Garden is a Chinese and Thai restaurant in Milan where you can get your much needed dose of dumplings, chicken mango and Thai shrimps among other traditional favorites. By offering a combination of cuisines while providing top notch quality the restaurant has founds its unique selling feature. Unlike many Chinese restaurants. Su Garden has quite an inviting interior as it is fairly open and modern. So if you are looking to eat out with the family and have some proper Chinese food then Su Garden is certainly worth checking out.

Seoul Ristorante Coreano

Ever wondered where you can get Kimchi and Bibimbap in Milan? Seoul Ristorante Coreano is an authentic Korean restaurant near the touristic harbor of Porta Ticinese. The menu of the restaurant is a bit on the short side, but this also means you can’t go wrong if you are new to the Korean cuisine and wish to dive into some new flavour experiences. This Korean restaurant is a welcome change of pace in Milan and the dishes are as tasty as they can be.

Seta

Seta is a classy two star Michelin restaurant that gives a spin to the Italian cuisine. Notable for its colourful bites offering unconventional flavour explosions livening up your taste buds. The selection of dishes vary from tributes to Milan, to seafood and various meat dishes to sweet pastries among other things. If you wish to be surprised it is even possible to give the chef a carte blanche to create a nice multiple course dinner for you. The restaurant has a formal luxury design and is located in the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in the heart of Milan. The restaurant also has a beautiful inner courtyard which has a more green and less formal feel to it, which is one of the nicer places to enjoy your meal at.

Ristorante Berton

In one of the havens of the most impressive modern architecture of Milan, the business district Porta Nuova, where you can for example find the Unicredit Tower, you will find Ristorante Berton. The restaurant prides itself on fairly light dishes and the art of turning ingredients to life with uncommon and distinct flavours. The restaurant has a deserved Michelin star as the experimental flavours are a joy to experience. The interior has a certain minimalistic design fitting the theme of the restaurant.

Adulis Restaurant

In the city of Milan you can find multiple Ethiopian and Eritrean restaurants. Our personal favorite Eritrean restaurant is Adulis. Traditionally Eritrean food is eaten with your hands and with bread, which makes for a pretty interesting experience. Once you enter the restaurant you will also notice it has a distinctly African design to it with lots of wood and drapings which gives off an exotic vibe. The restaurant can be found next to the shopping street Corso Buenos Aires, so after a long day of shopping the Adulis restaurant is an excellent place to settle down at.

Ristorante Aladino

Lebanese food is one of most popular mediterranean cuisines. And the authentic Syrian and Lebanese restaurant Aladino offers a good selection of food rich in spices. And traditional recipes for things such as falafel and lamb meat. The restaurant itself has a bit of an arabic kitsch design which fits the theme of the restaurant quite well. It’s also possible to eat outside on the closed off terrace. If you are looking for some well spiced and meaty food then Aladino is one of the best restaurants in Milan you will find.