The signature regional dishes are risotto alla Milanese (with saffron) as a starter
and osso buco (stewed veal shank with tomato) as a main course. It's
customary to talk business over a simple aperitivo, which is always served with
snacks. As one of the busiest and most cosmopolitan cities in Italy, Milan has a
thriving international dining scene. Many restaurants cluster in Porta Romana and
Brera.
If you want to impress a client, book a table at Michelin-starred Cracco-Peck
in the central square or at El Brellin, in a renovated 18th-century
washhouse on the Canal Grande. Giulio Pane e Ojo is an excellent no-frills
trattoria for an informal working lunch.
Shopping
Spazio Armani, Versace and other designer destinations give the Quadrilatero
d'Oro, near Via Montenapoleone, its cachet. For shoes, stroll Via Torino,
guaranteed to have something you can't say no to. A few items from Alessi's
three-story Milan showroom will make any kitchen stand out. For one-stop shopping,
head to the classy department store La Rinascente. For unique, quirky items,
browse the boutiques of the Brera district.
Things to do
The Duomo, topped by its little Madonna, is Milan's iconic landmark
and the world's largest Gothic cathedral. Another majestic building is the
redbrick Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco), which houses a pinacoteca (art
gallery). The Brera Art Gallery overflows with noteworthy Renaissance and
medieval works. To see Leonardo's masterpiece “The Last Supper.” visit the church of
Santa Maria delle Grazie.
Football (soccer) draws crowds to San Siro stadium, and world-class opera
plays at La Scala. Experience la dolce vita over a drink at one of the
stylish bars and outdoor terraces of the Brera district.
