Travel: A Taste of Milan Part 1

A closer look at the Duomo, from the patio at La Rinascente

Milan is a city that surprises at every turn. While it has the same charm found in other Italian cities, it's somehow blended with the non-stop sensibility often associated with New York. The winding roads take you either to a centuries-old building worth marveling over or a slick high rise. The people are strolling along or swiftly moving past, either way it's probably in an impeccably-tailored outfit. So grab your sunglasses and a pair of comfortable (albeit good-looking) shoes, it's time to take on Italy's fashion capital. 

FIRST STOP
With it's intricate marble details, the city's Gothic cathedral is a breath-taking first stop no matter what time you arrive. The Piazza del Duomo is surrounded by stores catering to those with both high and low budgets. But steps from the Duomo itself is the go-to department store, La Rinascente. Like Harrods in London, this eight-storey shopping centre offers cosmetics, fashion, housewares and even an assortment of specialty foods, bars and restaurants. For a closer look at some of the Duomo's detail, enjoy lunch on the store's rooftop patio. Though aperitivo time on the patio at La Rinascente is bustling, enjoy a change of scenery by strolling just outside of the piazza. A table on the sunny patio at Bar Mercurio (8 Via Giuseppe Mazzini) is perfect for people watching and sipping on cocktails (including mojitos and caipiroska alla fragola), while you discuss what's next on your itinerary. 

A glimpse of the treats you'll find at La Rinascente

BUON APPETITO
The picturesque streets in the Brera district are lined with high-end boutiques and cozy restaurants. Even in February, the outdoor tables are filled with people laughing theatrically or meeting for an intimate meal. Located on a narrow street off of Via Brera is Ristorante Nabucco (10 Via Fiori Chiari), a small restaurant specializing in Milanese dishes and fresh pasta. Craving something you don't see on the menu? Just ask. The friendly servers are quick to accommodate. Whether you're in the mood for gnocchi al pomodoro or spaghetti alla carbonara, these plates are loaded with deliciously fresh flavour. When you think the experience couldn't get any sweeter, the waiter brings complementary chocolate strawberries for dessert. Afterward, follow the sound of the music playing at Bar Giamaica (32 Via Brera), where a boisterous crowd fills the patio. 

Stay tuned for more shopping, tasting and sight-seeing in my next installment of Life is Glossy's guide to Milan.