Il Salumaio di Montenapoleone

Milan

Sure, talking about Italy’s carb-driven delights is a conversation that’s as old as time. But, rest assured, when it comes to Milan’s Il Salumaio di Montenapoleone, it’s a discussion of great importance. A family-run institution since 1957, the menu here is a veritable roll call of Italy’s finest cuisine. An orange tree-laden terrace and elegant interior featuring stone walls, marble statues and dark wood gives way to a lively open kitchen. Carefully sourced bresaola and creamy burrata are as flavourful an antipasti as you’ll find. For primi, a heady Milanese risotto with just that little bit of bite and a simple, rich home-made tortelloni al pomodoro may well have you considering moving here permanently. Veal cutlet is an essential main and tiramisu is our pick for pudding, though a strong espresso will do just as nicely. Don’t let the proximity (a ten-minute walk) to the tourist-strewn Duomo put you off: Il Salumaio is tucked away in a historic courtyard off a backstreet flanked by chic boutiques. This is a local hangout, make no mistake.