Merenda and or Aperitivo
Pasticceria Gattullo
Nestled in a corner of Piazzale di Porta Lodovica, Pasticceria Gattullo enchants customers since its
inception in 1961: this beloved bakery has been a beacon for pastry aficionados seeking a taste of
authentic Italian indulgence. There’s more beyond its exquisite pastries and baked goods – Pasticceria
Gattullo offers another delightful experience – the opportunity to enjoy aperitivos served with delicious
snacks. No refreshing Aperol Spritz or classic Negroni comes alone: they are always accompanied by an
array of delectable nibbles ranging from olives and cheese to freshly baked focaccia and salty croissants.
This perfect pairing of drinks and snacks adds an extra layer of enjoyment to your visit, transforming a
simple stop for pastries into a memorable experience. Whether you are stopping by for breakfast, lunch,
or an evening aperitivo, Pasticceria Gattullo invites you to indulge in the finer things in life, one
delicious bite at a time.
Aperitivo and After Dinner
Caffè Camparino in Galleria
Situated within the iconic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Caffè Camparino is a true Milanese institution
dating back to 1915. As you step into this historic café, you are transported to a bygone era of elegance
and sophistication. The grandeur of the surroundings is matched only by the impeccable service and
exquisite offerings, the majority based on their signature element, Campari. While the ground floor
offers the possibility to finely dine with a view of both the Galleria and the Duomo, for a more intimate
mixology experience, consider booking a table in the Sala Spiritello on the second floor. Here, you will be
treated to a setting adorned with a beautiful display of Campari bottles, creating a mesmerizing
constellation that adds a touch of magic to your drinking experience. Amidst the hustle and bustle of
the city, this timeless establishment offers a sanctuary of indulgence and refinement, inviting you to
linger awhile and savour the simple pleasures of la dolce vita.
Dinner
Premiata Trattoria Arlati dal 1936
Located in Sesto San Giovanni, just a few minutes away from the city centre, Premiata Trattoria Arlati is
a testament to quality and tradition. Since its founding in 1936, this beloved trattoria has been a
cherished gathering place for locals and visitors alike, seeking a taste of authentic Lombard cuisine.
Atop your choices the author suggests “Risotto milanese al salto con ossobuco” and the “Cotoletta alla
milanese”, cooked only as the local tradition teaches. Stepping inside, you are greeted with the sounds of a bustling kitchen and lively conversation. In 1973, Mario Arlati inaugurated “il sotto”, meaning the
room in the lower floor, now known also as “l’Enoteca”. Making it a space for concerts and jam
sessions, artists of the likes of Lucio Battisti, Area and Formula 3 played there, while now it hosts live
performances of emerging artists.
After Dinner
Bar Basso
A visit to Bar Basso is like stepping into the beating heart of Milan’s social scene. Since its
establishment in 1933, this iconic bar has been a beloved gathering spot drawn by its lively ambiance
and reputation. Notably, Bar Basso holds the distinction of inventing the renowned Negroni Sbagliato,
a delightful variation of the classic Negroni cocktail using Brut spumante or Prosecco instead of gin as
in the original recipe. Every moment spent here is infused with a sense of camaraderie and joie de vivre.
Devoid of any unnecessary frills, Bar Basso truly stands as a place betting on its simplicity, unchanged
over the decades. In a city known for its vibrant nightlife, Bar Basso stands out as a lonely gem of
neighbourhood conviviality, offering an experience that is as timeless as it is unforgettable.
