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Recommendations for dinner in Milan, Brera or Centro Storico, or nearby

We will be in Milan for one night next week, on our way to Lago di Garda and then the Dolomites. Since it is a Monday in August, many places are closed, so I would like some recommendations. Our hotel is close to the Duomo and we would like to walk to dinner, up to 1 km or so. My husband’s Italian tutor ( online) suggested the Navigli district, but that seems too far to walk.

We like smaller, friendly places with some ambiance, but the quality of the food is most important. We have been to Italy several times and know enough Italian that we do not need an English menu. When in Italy we generally order 2 antipasti, then my husband orders from the Primi (he loves pasta) and I order from the Secondi, usually seafood, as I cannot eat gluten. We like wine and will get a bottle.

A place with outdoor seating would be ideal, as my husband hates the buzzy noise in many restaurants. Please note that we are not looking for the ideal place or Michelin stars; just a nice place where we can have a pleasant Italian dinner. Cost is not as important as quality.

Thanks for your help.

Posted by
3388 posts

When I was in Milan, I enjoyed Brera’s al fresco eating style where I could people watch as tired hungry looking models made their way back to their apartments. This is an upscale neighborhood and I can’t remember what I ordered but I liked it. I too slept near the Centrale station and is a very good area to walk to and eat dinner.
The Navigli district opens later and is mostly bars and caters to the young. It’s known as Little Venice and I took public transportation to get there and it took a while to find this canal street. I didn’t see restaurants just clubs and there were many.

Posted by
270 posts

Very near the duomo on Via Agnello is Ristorante Valentino. They serve a Risotto Milanese (saffron risotto) that is one of the best dishes I have eaten in Italy. Hope you have time to try it. Delicious!!