Milan may be best known as one of the world’s fashion capitals or the fact it’s home to two famous football clubs, but the city is also where some of Italy’s best-loved dishes have originated from

Known for its stews and casserole style dishes, Milan and the wider Lombardy region has an array of tasty dishes that you can try while you’re studying abroad in the city. 

Collegiate has provided you with this comprehensive guide to Milanese cuisine to help you learn about the top dishes to try during your stay in one of the world’s most incredible cities.

What´s unique about Milan´s minestrone?

Minestrone is a soup dish that’s famous the world over but, of course, it has its roots in Italy. However, each region has its own take on the classic soup dish, with minestrone Milanese, a version that’s unique to the area.

The soup dates back to Ancient Rome where it was initially popularised by the fact it contained plenty of cereals, vegetables and legumes, all of which make up the ‘frugal diet’ that was advocated by the Romans.

Packed with herbs like basil, sage and parsley, minestrone Milanese truly is a feast for the senses with its stunning aroma complemented by its rich taste that’s bolstered by pancetta and the addition of a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.

Unlike other Italian regions, Milan’s take on the dish sees Arborio rice used instead of pasta.

Milan cuisine: What kind of food is ossobucco Milanese?

Ossobucco, which translates to ‘bone with a hole’, is a classic Lombardian stew that has been served in Milan for generations. This denotes the use of veal bone shanks in this dish, which happens to be one of the city’s favourites.

The dish also contains vegetables, white wine and a vegetable stock broth, but the modern tendency to add tomatoes is a controversial point for some, with purists believing they have no place in the stew.

The ossobucco is topped with Gremolata, which is a green sauce made up of parsley, lemon and a hint of garlic, and often served with a risotto.

If you want to speak like a true Milanese then you should ask for an ‘òss bus’.

How are you supposed to eat panettone? Typical Milan cuisine

Panettone is another of Milan’s exports that’s become popular all over the world.

The cake has traditionally been eaten in Milan on Christmas Day since the Middle Ages and it’s become a modern staple during the festive period and as it draws ever closer, enjoying a slice of panettone will certainly help you get into the yuletide spirit.

However, there are those who dare to eat this all year round and we don’t blame them!

They can be enjoyed either hot or cold, as part of a cheese board or with dipping sauces to make a delicious dessert. Some Italians would even recommend tucking into the cake at breakfast!

What is a piadina sandwich? Enjoy the Milanese cuisine

It may have its roots in Emilia-Romagna but the region’s proximity to Milan means the flatbread has not had to travel far to become one of the city’s most popular lunchtime snacks.

Mozzarella and cold cuts are the most common fillings for this tasty flatbread sandwich. However, sweet piadinas are sold at kiosks across Milan, with jam and Nutella among the most popular fillings.

The best thing about these lunches is that they’re student friendly as they make for a quick, inexpensive and, depending on your choice of filling, a healthy meal.

Milan is blessed with a wide range of piadinerias and the fact that it’s easy to eat means that it’s an ideal choice for when you’re on the go.

What is veal Milanese and how is it different to a schnitzel?

Once again, veal features on this guide! The tender meat is the main ingredient in the much beloved cotoletta alla Milanese or simply veal Milanese, which is a cousin of the better-known Austrian wiener schnitzel.

The difference between the two is that the Milanese version uses loin meat, often including the bone, whereas Austrians prefer to use boneless rump meat.

Veal Milanese is arguably Milan’s signature dish and is a popular choice with locals and tourist alike. 

In traditional versions of the dish, the loin bone remains in place but regardless of whether the bone is included, the veal is always fried in a mix of bread crumbs, lemon, and flour.

One things for sure, you’ll never be short of an eatery that’s serving these classic Milanese dishes. Alternatively, Collegiate Europe students can cook up their own Milanese storm in our fully equipped kitchen at our Milan North accommodation. Find out more about all our services and ask for a place at Collegiate Milan North. We provide you with the highest quality to make the most of what will probably be one of the most important experiences of your life!

One things for sure, you’ll never be short of an eatery that’s serving these classic Milanese dishes. Alternatively, Collegiate Europe students can cook up their own Milanese storm in our fully equipped kitchen at our Milan North accommodation. Find out more about all our services and ask for a place at Collegiate Milan North. We provide you with the highest quality to make the most of what will probably be one of the most important experiences of your life!

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Staying in Milan?

Second largest city of Italy with the most skyscrapers. Milan is home to over 200,000 students across more than twenty universities. When you’re ready for a study break, you can stroll around Duomo, visit Sforzesco Castle; or enjoy Navigli District’s fantastic bustling bar and restaurant offering.

If you’re coming to study in Milan, check out Collegiate’s Student Accommodation in Milan and see for yourself what else you can discover!