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<\/div>\nWhile we\u2019re more accustomed to heading to Milan<\/a> with fashion and design at the forefront, early 2026 is bringing something new to the city: the Winter Olympics. Come February, the northern Italian metropolis will share the limelight with Cortina for the 25th Winter Games<\/a>, with the Paralympics following in March.<\/p>\n Milan will host ice sports, including figure skating and short track speed skating, at the Unipol Forum di Assago; speed skating at the Fiera Milano Rho Exhibition Center; and ice hockey at Rho Fiera and the new Arena Santa Giulia.<\/p>\n There will be official fan zones and public screenings across the city, but for those more accustomed to bouncing from one fashion party to the next, you may be a little, well, on your own. But fear not \u2013 we\u2019ve tapped into the expertise of some of the individuals who know the city best, so that if you\u2019re left to your own devices, or simply need a break from the crowds, you can enjoy Milan\u2019s best local spots.<\/p>\n See more: The Must-See Moments From Milan Design Week 2025<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n World-class pizza and pasta are, of course, aplenty in this Italian city, but be sure to make the most of Milan\u2019s specialties and more traditional Northern Italian dishes, often found in low-key, relaxed trattorias.<\/p>\n In winter, Lombardians gravitate toward cassoeula, a braised veal shank cooked slowly until the meat yields to a fork, often served with gremolata. Risotto alla Milanese is also a must-try: a rich, buttery, golden-colored rice dish flavored with saffron.\u00a0<\/p>\n For something a little meatier, order cotoletta alla Milanese \u2014 a bone-in veal cutlet, pounded thin, breaded, and fried in butter. Crisp on the outside, tender inside, it is usually served simply, with no sides aside from a wedge of lemon.<\/p>\n \u201cIn Milan, my favorite place for lunch is Bacaro Montenapoleone,\u201d says Fortela creative director Alessandro Squarzi<\/a>. \u201cIt\u2019s a hidden courtyard tucked away on Via Montenapoleone, with just a few tables. Their vitello tonnato is one of my absolute favorites, and they offer a well-curated wine selection.\u201d<\/p>\n For traditional dishes, Ezio Indiani, general manager of the iconic Milanese hotel Savoia di Principe, recommends Trattoria Milanese. Or for something a little more contemporary, book into Ratan\u00e0 \u2013 a beautiful old building in Isola.<\/p>\n Milan\u2019s drinking culture is built around routine, so if you want to blend into the background and not stand out as a tourist, you need to learn the rules. Days start with coffee (pastry optional) taken quickly and usually standing at the bar. For this, Indiani directs you to Caff\u00e8 Cova, \u201ca true Milanese institution.\u201d A cappuccino is fair game in the morning, but ordering one after lunch will mark you as a visitor.<\/p>\n In the early evening, the city shifts into aperitivo mode, Milan\u2019s signature drinking ritual: a pre-dinner pause enjoyed with friends and unhurried conversation. Classic orders include a Negroni, Americano, or spritz, enjoyed with small plates that range from olives and crisps to more generous spreads, depending on where you go.<\/p>\n \u201cFor a good Americano cocktail, I always choose La Pesa Pubblica,\u201d says Squarzi. \u201cIn the Liberty District, right next to the Fortela boutique, it\u2019s a very low-profile spot with surprisingly well-crafted cocktails.\u201d<\/p>\n Milan native Michele Lupi<\/a>, of Italian shoe brand Tod\u2019s, backs locals-only bar Norah Was Drunk, \u201ca refined spot, even if not located in the center of town.\u201d Named after the owner\u2019s small dog, Norah, who would lick leftover glasses after dinner and end up a little tipsy, Lupi suggests ordering the Oyster Martini \u2013 a saltier take on the classic, served with an oyster inside. For side plates: \u201ca plate of Pata Negra, an exquisite cheese assiette, and wonderful smoked salmon with sour cream.\u201d<\/p>\n Then comes wine. Aperitivo hour can be enjoyed at one of the city\u2019s historic wine bars \u2013 Indiani recommends N\u2019Ombra de Vin for an intimate get-together \u2013 but for a true Milanese experience, let the evening be food-led. \u201cPeck is ideal for a gourmet experience with fine wines,\u201d he recommends.<\/p>\n![\"winter-olympics-guide-to-milan-from-an-insider\"](\"https:\/\/elitetraveler.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2025\/12\/winter-olympics-guide-to-milan-from-an-insider-2560x1709.jpg\")
The best restaurants in Milan to visit during the Winter Olympics<\/strong><\/h2>\n
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The best bars in Milan<\/strong><\/h2>\n
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