Milan is a food lover’s paradise, and there are so many delicious dishes to try! Here are 12 of the best foods to try in Milan. From risotto alla Milanese to Cotoletta alla Milanese, there are plenty of delicious options to choose from. So whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a hearty meal, check out these amazing dishes.
1. Risotto alla Milanese
Risotto alla Milanese is a classic dish from the city of Milan in northern Italy. The dish is made with Arborio rice, which is cooked in a broth made with beef or veal bones.
Risotto alla Milanese is usually served with either beef or veal, and it is often garnished with grated Parmesan cheese. The dish has a creamy texture and a rich, savory flavor.
It is one of the most popular dishes in Milan, and it is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. If you are ever in Milan, be sure to try a plate of Risotto alla Milanese!
2. Cotoletta alla Milanese
There’s nothing quite like a delicious plate of cotoletta alla Milanese. This traditional Italian dish consists of a pounded veal cutlet that is breaded and fried to crispy perfection.
The cutlet is then garnished with a lemon wedge and a sprinkle of parsley. Cotoletta alla Milanese is typically served with boiled potatoes or a simple salad.
The dish originated in Milan, Italy, and it remains one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. If you’re ever in Milan, swing by one of the many restaurants that serve this mouthwatering dish.
3. Panettone
Holidays wouldn’t be complete without a traditional panettone in Milan. This large, round cake is made with fluffy sourdough and studded with raisins, candied citrus, and almonds.
The history of panettone dates back to the Middle Ages when it was created as a way to use up leftover bread dough. Over time, it evolved into the rich and decadent treat we know today.
Each year, millions of panettone are sold in Italy during the holiday season. If you’re lucky enough to find yourself in Milan during this time of year, try a traditional panettone.
4. Ossobuco alla Milanese
Ossobuco alla Milanese is a must-try food when in Milan, Italy. It is a dish made of veal shanks and vegetables simmered in white wine and broth. The veal shanks are usually slow-cooked for hours to achieve a tender and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
The ossobuco is then typically served with risotto alla milanese, which is a rice dish cooked in broth and flavored with saffron. This traditional dish of Milan is definitely worth trying when in the city!
5. Cassoeula
Cassoeula is a must-try food when in Milan, Italy. It is a type of stew that is made with various types of meat and greens.
The meats typically include pork, beef, and lamb. The greens include cabbage, kale, and other leafy greens.
Cassoeula is usually served with a side of bread or pasta.
The dish is hearty and filling, making it the perfect meal for a cold winter day. While it may not be the most popular dish in Milan, it is definitely worth trying if you have the chance.
6. Polenta e Ossobuco
When in Milan, try the delicious dish of Polenta e Ossobuco. This must-try food is made with tender braised veal shanks and creamy polenta, and it will leave you wanting more.
The veal is slowly cooked in a rich broth until it is fall-off-the-bone tender, and the polenta is served up piping hot. Whether you’re looking for an authentic Italian meal or simply want to try something new, Polenta e Ossobuco is sure to please.
7. Risi e Bisi
Risi e Bisi is a traditional dish from Venice, Italy that is made with rice and peas. The dish is said to date back to the 16th century, and it remains a popular choice in Venice today.
Risi e Bisi is traditionally served as a first course, but it can also be enjoyed as a main meal. The dish is simple to make, and it can be easily adaptable to personal taste.
For example, some people like to add pancetta or bacon to the dish, while others prefer to keep it vegetarian. No matter how it is prepared, Risi e Bisi is sure to please any appetite.
8. Risotto al Nero di Seppia
Risotto al Nero di Seppia is a traditional Milanese dish. This is made with black rice and squid ink, giving it a unique flavor and color.
The rice is cooked in a broth made with either fish or shellfish, and the finished dish is often garnished with seafood. Risotto al Nero di Seppia is a popular dish in Milanese restaurants, and it can also be found in many cookbooks. This traditional dish of Milan is definitely worth trying when in the city!
9. Marubini in Brodo
For an authentic food experience in Milan, try marubini in brodo. This traditional Italian dish is made by cooking marubini pasta in a beef broth. The result is a rich and flavorful dish that is perfect for a winter meal.
Marubini in Brodo is typically served with a side of bread, making it a hearty and filling meal. And, of course, no trip to Milan would be complete without trying this classic dish.
The best part is that you can find it at any of the city’s many trattorias. So if you’re looking for a delicious and hearty meal, be sure to try marubini in brodo. You won’t be disappointed.
10. Stinco di Maiale
When it comes to food, Milan is definitely one of Italy’s top destinations. One of the city’s most iconic dishes is stinco di maiale, or pork shank.
This hearty dish is made with slowly roasted pork that is falling-off-the-bone tender. It’s usually served with a side of pureed potatoes, making it the perfect meal for a cold winter day.
11. Bollito Misto
If you’re looking for a delicious and hearty meal, try bollito misto. This traditional dish from Milan is made with a variety of meats, including beef, pork, chicken, and veal.
The meats are cooked in a broth made with onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Once the meats are cooked through, they are cut into large chunks and served with a variety of sauces.
Bollito misto is typically served with mostarda, a sweet-and-spicy fruit preserve, as well as horseradish or green salsa. It’s the perfect meal to warm you up on a cold winter day.
12. Sbrisolona
While sbrisolona is typically thought of as a dessert, this traditional food from Milan is so much more than that. Made with a simple dough of flour, sugar, butter, and cornmeal, sbrisolona can be served as a breakfast pastry, an afternoon snack, or even a light dinner.
What makes sbrisolona so special is its versatility. The dough can be flavored with anything from chocolate to cheese to spinach, and the toppings can range from fresh fruit to aged balsamic vinegar.
In Conclusion
Milan is a food lover’s paradise, with something to please every palate. From traditional dishes like Polenta e Ossobuco to more unique fare like Risotto al Nero di Seppia, there’s something for everyone in this city. So if you’re looking for an authentic Italian dining experience, add Milan to your list of must-visit destinations. You won’t be disappointed.
