1. TORRE DI PISA

An historic “trattoria” located in the heart of Brera, Torre di Pisa was considered one of the hottest spots of Milanese “dolce vita” in the 1970s. Today, its welcoming ambience of chic simplicity attracts diners who can enjoy the most authentic Tuscan cuisine: genuine ingredients – including highly select extra-virgin olive oils, fresh pasta and the best cuts of meat – and recipes based on peasant tradition. Specialties include “bruschetta,” “stuffed ravioli,” “bistecca alla fiorentina,” “Cantucci” biscuits, and Vin Santo. Also offers a first-rate selection of Italian and foreign wines. Open daily. www.trattoriatorredipisa.it

Authentic Tuscan cuisine, in the heart of Brera.

M2 Lanza. Via Fiori Chiari, 21/5 – T: 02 874877

2. A SANTA LUCIA

A welcoming restaurant located in Milan’s historic downtown area and formerly a favorite of film stars and singers including Wanda Osiris, Totò and Mina, Santa Lucia still retains all of its original 1930s furnishings. Santa Lucia offers typically Neapolitan cuisine, from pizza to “rigatoni,” from “battuta di manzo” to “pastiera,” all strictly based on classic recipes. Great selection of wines from the Campania area. Open daily. www.asantalucia.it

In Milan’s downtown area, typically Neapolitan cuisine.

M1 San Babila. Via San Pietro all’Orto, 3 – T: 02 76023155

3. COCOPAZZO

An elegant, comfortable typical Tuscan venue that also offers a good after-theater dining venue: the kitchen stays open until 1am. Its cuisine varies from comfortable classics such as “ribollita” and “castagnaccio,” accompanied by the famous wines of the Tuscan hills, to a wide assortment of pizza. Open daily. www.ristorantecocopazzo.it

Tuscan cuisine until late.

M1 San Babila. Via Durini, 26 – T: 02 76020823

4. REPLAY

Thanks to its sophisticated ambience, its centrally located position and its first-rate cuisine (boasting typical Italian and Milanese menus), Replay is the ideal spot for a variety of occasions: easy elegance for a romantic dinner or a quiet post theatre meal but also a more low-key atmosphere for a business lunch. Its ornate, intricately carved boiserie, pastel colours and delicately frescoed walls give the venue a new look and an even warmer, more appealing atmosphere. The restaurant’s evocative atmosphere is further heightened by a charming garden for “al fresco” dining in warmer weather. Open daily. www.ristorantereplay.it

In the heart of shopping district.

M1-M3 Duomo. Piazzetta Pattari, 2 – T: 02 86463125/86464106

5. CHARLESTON

An elegant venue offering an array of enticing dishes for food connoisseurs, Charleston is the ideal place to savour genuine Tuscan food but also typically Mediterranean cuisine ranging from gnocchetti, pappardelle and ravioli to wonderful fish dishes and famous cuts of Florentine beef. Other standout dishes include a wide variety of pizzas baked in wood-fired oven according to time-honoured tradition. Open daily. www.ristorantecharleston.it

Pizza and more right in the center of Milan.

M1-M3 Duomo. Piazza Liberty, 8 – T: 02 798631

6. QUATTRO MORI

Large, well-spaced tables in this dining room overlooking the garden. The restaurant also has a smaller room illuminated by 18th century light fittings and appliques. This historic venue is one of the most renowned in town and offers fabulous fish dishes but also fresh, homemade pasta and a variety of meats. It has a well-stocked wine cellar and offers a large selection of Italian and foreign labels. Closed on Sat at lunch. www.ristorantequattromori.it

Dining overlooking the garden.

M1 Cairoli. Largo M. Callas, 1 – T: 02 878483

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