Milan

Milan is a city with a sophisticated, cosmopolitan vibe with gritty medieval edges.

Milan is a city with a sophisticated, cosmopolitan vibe with gritty medieval edges. An elegant metropolis that sits high in northern Italy veiled in fog like a delicately carved renaissance statue. It’s known as the economic heart of Italy, housing the headquarters for various firms in the financial industry making it not only the second largest city following Rome, but a vital engine of the nation.

It’s high fashion, high art, and high prices in Milan. But there’s so much more going on beneath its iconic surface.

Milan became a home away from home because my partner, Alex, grew up here and still has most of his family and close friends throughout the city.

For me, Milan is a city of reflection. You wander around and find treasures only if you’re looking with sharp intent. Otherwise, it’s easy to get wrapped up in its famous fog, known in Milanese dialect as nebbiun, and not see much at all.

*A view of the UniCredit Tower at Piazza Gae Aulenti, 3, Milan.*

As per the video, there are a few must-see sights in Milan: that are within walking distance of one another in the city’s center:

Duomo & Piazza
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Teatro La Scala
Castello Sforzesco
Brera (Arts district)
Via Montenapoleone

Regarding food, this is not the region to visit if you’re a die-hard pizza enthusiast. This region is known for quality Risotto dishes, Osso Buco, and Cotoletta alla Milanese among others.

Risotto allo Zafferano (Photo from Tavolartegusto.it) — ***Risotto allo Zafferano*** *(Photo from Tavolartegusto.it)*

When it comes to getting good eats in Milan, here are the favorites mentioned in the video:

Food

Luini (for Panzerotto)
Peck (for bougie snacks)
Manuelina di Recco (focaccia is **chef’s kiss**)
Navigli (a neighborhood known for authentic Milanese dishes)
Isola (a neighborhood known for quality trattoria food)

While Milanese foods should be sought after during a vacation to the city, it should also be noted as with everywhere else in Italy, the best food you’ll have will be in someone’s home.

In short, Milan has become one of a few special places in the world that feel like home, I’m just fortunate enough to have in-laws here who happen to be amazing cooks and wonderful storytellers. And like the Armani quote in the beginning of this episode, it’s a fearless city, but scratch the fashionista surface and its welcoming and warm to its core.