Milan, Italy is not well-known for being a “foodie” city. However, I tend to find it can be underrated destination. I mean, they have everything! During your trip to Milan, I encourage you to try something on my list of what food to eat in Milan, Italy!
Are you in the middle of planning a trip to Milan? Don’t miss out on My 10+ Best Things to Do in Milan, Italy.
And before you dive into reading, my FAVORITE thing to do when exploring a new city is a food tour. I try to do this my first day to get not only an understanding of the cuisine, but also some context on the history. One I have done myself as a local and can confirm is incredible is this one: Sunset Navigli Food and Drinks Tour.
That tour will give you the perfect intro to some of the foods I explain below; plus, Navigli is one of the most fun neighborhoods in Milan! Disclosure: The tour above contains affiliate links. If you book through them, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Table of Contents
Risotto alla Milanese
Risotto is amazing in general, but have you tried risotto alla milanese? The not-so-secret special ingredient is saffron, which gives it a yellow tint and scrumptious flavor. You can find this on the menu at almost any trattoria in Milan.
Ossobuco
One of my absolute favorite dishes (and undoubtedly on the top of my list for the best food in Milan) is ossobuco. It is slow-roasted veal cooked in a broth or wine mixture. It is fall-off-the-bone delicious and it is even better when served on top of risotto alla milanese – best of both worlds!
Cotoletta alle Milanese
Cotoletta vs schnitzel is an ongoing debate between Italians and Austrians – which one came first and which is better? I’ll settle for both are amazing! Again, it isn’t hard to find a restaurant serving cotoletta, but it may vary in how it is served and whether you like the taste.
See below for how different it may look depending on the restaurant.
Pizza
While Naples, Italy is undoubtedly the capital of pizza in Italy, it doesn’t mean you can’t find good pizza in Milan. In fact, every year there is a publication regarding the 50 top pizzerias in Italy; many in Milan make the cut!
Panzerotti
Panzerotti are actually from Puglia, but there is a famous local-favorite shop, Luini’s, near the Duomo if you want to try them first-hand. I’d compare panzerotti to a little pizza pocket. There are savory or sweet options and the best news is they are all only a few euros each!
Panettone
During the holiday season, you must try panettone in Milan. Traditionally, it is a sweet bread with dried fruits or nuts on the inside. In time, there are now a variety of savory options you can also find. Last year, I attended a Panettone Festival in Milan!
If you find yourself in Milan in the off-season and want to try all of the best food in Milan on this list, don’t worry. Places like Pavé serve panettone year-round.
Chicken
I promise I am not trolling you by adding chicken to this list! Since 1967, Giannasi has been a staple in the Porta Romana neighborhood of Milan. Grab your number, wait in line, and then order your fresh roast chicken and side dishes.
Locals adore this spot (be prepared for a long wait on weekends), but you will be a true Milanese after eating here! Therefore, the king of roast chicken has to be on the best food in Milan list.
Asian Food
You may be a shock, but I will argue Milan is the best city in Italy for some amazing Asian food. While there is a Chinatown in Milan with great Chinese options, you’ll also find great Japanese, Korean, Indian, and more restaurants or shops around the city.
On Paolo Sarpi, a street in Chinatown, you’ll find everything at your fingertips.
Gelato
We can’t forget gelato on the best food in Milan list. As an ice cream lover, it is hard to find bad gelato (don’t hate me, but I think even the bad gelato is still “good”). There are so many incredible spots around the city. Check out my more detailed guide for the Best Gelato Shops in Milan.
This concludes my picks for the best food in Milan to eat! I hope your stomach is just as full as your heart after your trip to Milan.
You may be interested in more of my Milan travel guides. Check out some additional posts here: