Beyond the Labels: Exploring Milano’s Art and Culinary Scene
Milano often gets a reputation for being “boring” unless you’re on the hunt for a designer bag or high-end jewelry. But let me tell you, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Beyond the glitzy storefronts of Via Montenapoleone, Milano offers a wealth of charm, creativity, and cultural richness. If you’re willing to wander the city’s streets, you’ll stumble upon magical, pastoral spots and unforgettable experiences that reveal its true spirit. Here’s how we spent a day discovering Milano’s art, food, and festive vibes.
Morning: A Sweet Start at Gelsomina
Our day began at Gelsomina, a delightful coffee and pastry shop that feels like a serene retreat from the city’s bustle. The interior design is a blend of minimalistic brightness and antique ceramic-inspired touches, with just a hint of modern flair. It’s elegant yet comforting, making it the perfect spot to start your day. Their pastries are heavenly, the breakfast options are diverse, and the coffee is exceptional.
If you’re in the mood to explore another spot, Pavé is just a short walk away. While we couldn’t get a table this time because it was packed, this coffee, cake, and brunch shop is well worth a visit when in Milano.
Morning Art Stops: From Stunning to Subtle
Cardi Gallery
We headed first to the Cardi Gallery, an unassuming space tucked away from the street. While it’s a bit tricky to find, the effort is rewarded with a beautifully curated collection of art. The gallery feels intimate yet inspiring, and it left a lasting impression on us.
Lia Rumma Gallery
Next, we visited the Lia Rumma Gallery, a striking and spacious venue. While the current exhibition didn’t resonate with us, the gallery’s impressive space alone makes it worth a visit. Keep an eye on their schedule, as future exhibitions might surprise you.
Midday Feast: Flavors of Chinatown
After visiting the Lia Rumma Gallery, we made our way to Milano’s Chinatown, a vibrant hub of food and culture. The area is a feast for the senses, offering an array of authentic street food and small shops. We indulged in bao, gyozas, and buns from five different stalls and restaurants, each bite more delicious than the last. The energy, flavors, and diversity of Chinatown make it a must-visit for any foodie in Milano.
Afternoon Art Adventures
Kaufmann Reperto
A true highlight of the day was the Kaufmann Reperto gallery. Every piece of art here was jaw-dropping, with 80% of the exhibits created by women—a conscious and commendable effort to amplify female voices in the art world. Even the entrance is a work of art, featuring flagpoles without flags, designed by a Middle Eastern artist as a poignant statement on unity and the unnecessary divisions between people. This gallery left a profound impression on us.
Monica de Cardenas Gallery
The Monica de Cardenas Gallery was our next stop, but unfortunately, it didn’t quite meet our expectations. The atmosphere felt less welcoming, and the exhibition wasn’t particularly captivating. However, as with any gallery, the experience depends on the exhibit, so it’s worth checking back in the future.
Galleria Massimo de Carlo
Lastly, we stopped by the Galleria Massimo de Carlo, a visually stunning space. While it was closed during our visit, the exterior alone was enough to pique our curiosity. It’s definitely on our list for a future trip to Milano.
Evening Indulgence: Pasta Perfection
For dinner, we returned to a favorite spot, Via Pastaria. This is, without a doubt, one of the best pasta restaurants not just in Milano, but perhaps in the world. Each dish is crafted with handmade pasta, created from specific types of flour, and the menu changes seasonally to highlight the freshest ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the prices are surprisingly accessible for such high-quality food. If you’re a pasta lover, this is an absolute must.
We wrapped up our day at the Christmas Market by the Duomo. While it leaned heavily into touristy territory, the festive atmosphere made it worth a visit. And, of course, the Milano Cathedral remains an awe-inspiring masterpiece. Its intricate details and towering beauty never fail to leave me speechless. If you find yourself here, take a moment to truly absorb the artistry of this iconic landmark.
Milano is often overlooked as a cultural destination, dismissed as a shopping hub or business center. But this city is so much more than that. With its hidden art galleries, vibrant neighborhoods, and charming streets, it offers moments of magic for those willing to look. Whether you’re savoring pastries at Gelsomina, exploring art at Kaufmann Reperto, or wandering through Chinatown, Milano proves to be a city of contrasts and surprises.
So next time you’re in Milano, skip the designer boutiques and dig a little deeper—you’ll discover a city full of unforgettable experiences waiting to be uncovered.
