Often hailed as the fashion capital of the world, this northern Italian city knows a few things about style, but Milan is not just all about the runway. Once overshadowed by Rome and Venice on the foodie front, the city’s culinary scene has flourished in recent years and is these days at the vanguard of international food and bar culture. The Milanese are famous for their love of aperitivo, so why not mix with the chic locals and enjoy An Aperol Spritz at one of the city’s countless chichi bars and restaurants.

Brought to you with Aperol 

Image: Phototecnica srl

For a true taste of Italian aperitivo culture there is no better place to start than the historic Camparino in Galleria. Named as one of the World’s 100 Best Bars in 2022, this Milanese institution has been serving impeccably mixed drinks for over a century. And if you do manage to grab a table, order yourself an Aperol spritz, Campari spritz or signature Campari seltz for the perfect aperitivo to enjoy while you are treated to an unimpeded view of the glorious Duomo. Plus with a selection of delectable signature cicchetti on offer, this is the perfect place to get a proper taste of Milan.

If a splash of history, stirred with a shot of modernity is your thing, then Spoon is the place to go. Legend has it that Napoleon Bonaparte’s stables once stood where the bar is now located. But these days you won’t see any hay bales and feed bags around here. Spoon is one of the most stylish places to enjoy an aperitivo in this fashion-conscious city, so book a table with friends in its leafy garden for an Aperol Spritz and a variety of irresistible dishes with a focus on seafood – including snapper carpaccio and tuna tataki – and embrace your inner fashionista.

Meanwhile at Zoocomunale on Via Melzo, you can get a taste of everything at once. This multifaceted space describes itself as “a bit of a restaurant, a bit of a wine bar, a bit of an event location, a bit of a smartworking place” – and true enough you could come here for breakfast and stay all day until it’s time for an aperitivo with Aperol Sprritz. Plus, if you are in town for a special occasion – your birthday, say, or a friend’s – they can help organise your event for you.

Located on the vibrant Corso Magenta, Bar Magenta is a traditional bar – complete with wood-panelled walls and vintage ornaments galore – that is wildly popular with everyone who visits. Head there for an aperitivo, pull up a chair and make friends at the bar, or head outside and drink in the street life, not to mention a perfectly prepared Aperol Spritz. Cheers!