The Ultimate Winter Guide- The Best Cocktails in Milan
Last Updated on February 8, 2025 by spritzience
Welcome to Milan, the fashion capital of Italy! Known for its sophisticated style and vibrant nightlife, Milan is home to some of the best cocktails in the world. If you’re looking to sip on expertly crafted cocktails, socialize with the city’s chic crowd, and celebrate in style, you’ve come to the right place.
When the temperatures drop and the city of Milan transforms into a winter wonderland, there’s no better time to explore its trendy cocktail bars. In this ultimate guide, we’ll take you on a journey to try the best cocktails in Milan. We’ll visit cocktail bars, where craft mixology meets stylish ambiance. From hidden speakeasies to design capital chic we’ll uncover the city’s most captivating spots to indulge in libations.
So, grab your favorite cocktail attire and get ready to discover the latest mixology trends, explore unique flavor combinations, and learn about the city’s vibrant bar culture. Cheers to an unforgettable night out in the fashion-forward city!
The Rise of Cocktail Culture in Milan
Milan’s cocktail culture has experienced a remarkable evolution over the past decade, transforming the city into a vibrant hub for mixology enthusiasts. Historically known for its rich wine tradition and classic Italian spirits, the city has embraced modern cocktail trends, pushing the boundaries of creativity and flavor.
This shift is not merely about the drinks themselves; it reflects a broader cultural movement that values craftsmanship, aesthetics, and the art of socializing. As Milan’s nightlife flourished, so did the demand for unique and innovative cocktail experiences, leading to the rise of numerous trendy bars and acclaimed mixologists.
One of the key factors driving this cocktail renaissance is the burgeoning interest in high-quality ingredients and artisanal techniques. Bartenders in Milan are increasingly sourcing local and organic produce to create fresh and flavorful concoctions.
This commitment to quality has led to the emergence of signature cocktails that not only tantalize the taste buds but also showcase the essence of Italian culture. From carefully selected spirits to house-made syrups and bitters, the meticulous attention to detail has become a hallmark of Milan’s bar scene.
Trendy Cocktail Bars in Milan: Cinque Vie Neighborhood
1930 – Balsamic and Pickly Pear Negroni
Nestled in the heart of Milan, 1930 is an iconic speakeasy that embodies the spirit of the Prohibition era. With its undisclosed address and unmarked entrance this bar invites patrons to step into a world of sophistication and allure. 1930 is renowned for its expertly crafted cocktails, where innovative recipes are created. The bartenders here are true artisans, taking pride in their craft and utilizing high-quality ingredients to create unforgettable libations.
A standout features of 1930 is its cocktail menu, it’s the most unique that Spritzience has ever seen. And it’s not just us, 1930 consistently ranks in the top 50 bars in the world, year after year.
Not to ruin the surprise, we won’t comment on this winter’s theme – but what we can say is that we enjoyed a range of cocktails like we had never tasted before – some of the best cocktails in Milan. 1930 brings the art of mixology to a new level. Our favorite was the Balsamic and Pickly Pear Negroni.
Another standout, the elegantly dressed bar tenders in stylish maroon dinner jackets (we are after all in a global fashion city) take the time to chat with you. It’s an opportunity to learn more about mixology and the uniqueness behind this menu. And this makes sense, as it’s no small feat to gain access to this speakeasy, so you want to revel in your reward of gaining access.
Gaining Access to 1930 – Speakeasy
So how do you enter this speakeasy? If you don’t already have contacts who can help you get in, the next best thing to do is to visit Mag La Pusterla, in the Cinque Vie Neighborhood (nearest Metro Stop De Amicis). From there they can help call the speakeasy to check if there’s room.
If you’re granted access, someone will come to Mag La Pusterla to escort you to the speakeasy which is in the same neighborhood. In case you’re not able to enter 1930, it’s not a wasted trip to the neighborhood, as Mag La Pusterla is also an excellent spot to enjoy a handcrafted artisanal cocktail.
Sogni- Dreamlike Decor
Sogni is another must-visit cocktail bar that has garnered a reputation for its stylish atmosphere and creative drink offerings. Located in the Cinque Vie district, as you walk from the De Amicis metro to this bar, you’ll find yourself wondering am I in the right spot as it looks like a regular neighborhood?
Have no fear, you’ll soon see 2 glamorous metal lights fronting a door, with a bouncer waiting in the alcove who is ready to open the door and welcome you in. Once inside, you’ll see lush velvet covered banquets, zink lined walls, and a vaulted ceilings that must be 30 feet high. The decor and styling with it’s magical use of lighting to create rhythm and repetition pulls you in. As you look around and take in the decor, it’s impossible not to realize just how perfectly this bar has been named. Sogni means dreams in English.
You know that you need to follow the hostess where she’s taking you, but you’ll want to see all the different rooms. Thankfully Spritzience has taken one for the team and tried to capture a few of them for you. The long sleek wooden bar topped with zinc has beautiful lights, and 2 dining rooms flank the bar area – in what feels like a magical wonderland of a bar.
Sogni- Some of the best cocktails in Milan
And then there are the signature Sogni cocktails, using fresh ingredients and unique syrups to create some of the best cocktails in Milan. Our favorite was the Europa, a vodka based drink with strawberry and bergamot notes.
We complimented ours with aperitivo snacks and an artichoke salad. It came with the most delicious Italian olive oil and aged Parmesan cheese. If you love caviar and seafood dishes, saunter over to the dining room and enjoy a meal after your cocktails. But why not linger a little longer and enjoy the great music in the bar area?
Drogheria Milanese- Vodka Sour with fresh raspberries and mint
Walking by the Drogheria Milanese, you’ll see the bright lights and unique vintage decor. The walls behind the bar are lined with shelves as if this was still a vintage styled Italian “drogheria,” selling dry goods and food staples.
Looking right, a long table leads your eye to a large mirror covering almost the entire wall. It’s topped with an artfully arranged display of yellow hacksaws. Handy in case you need to quickly open a cardboard package of dry goods I suppose.
While this is more of a restaurant than a cocktail bar, I couldn’t leave it off the list as the vintage decor is so unique and my vodka sour was just so tasty.
The Best Cocktails in Milan: City Center – Duomo Neighborhood
Giardino Cordusio – Giardino’s Fizz
When you pull back the velvet curtains and enter this Garden, you’ll know you’ve entered a luxurious space. Above you, oversize crystal chandeliers hang from 30 feet above you, showcasing a glass ceiling. To your right and left plants are growing. At the end of the room, there is a luminous bar that feels vaguely reminiscent of a cathedral. Could this spot be a cathedral of cocktails?
Sleek marble topped tables with gold edges, plush chairs and banquets make for the perfect spot to people watch and enjoy the sumptuous atmosphere. Our drink of choice here is the Giardino Fizz. It’s a gin based long drink, with lemongrass, mandarin cordial, chartreuse and etna liquor amongst other ingredients. Come at aperitivo time when you can enjoy a complimentary tray of aperitivo light bites. Generally aperitivo time is in the range of 6:00 pm to 8pm, however, this can vary by bar.
Giardino Cordusio frequently collaborates with top bartenders. It’s a great place to visit to enjoy amazing decor and ensure you’ll get one of the best cocktails in Milan.
L’Amaro Bar at Il Marchese – Mint Fizz
Hidden down a side street as you walk from the Castle Sforzesco towards the Duomo (heading towards Brera), Il Marchese is a neat find. The decor was inspired by the Marchese of Grillo. Marble columns front the wooden bar, while crystal chandeliers hand from the ceiling to illuminate the Italian terrazzo floor. Elegant leather banquettes and handcrafted chairs surround the small welcoming tables
This lounge is is the perfect spot to step out of the cold winter weather. You can warm up over a Mint Fizz; made with Mint Branca, Lime Juice and Black Chinotto. Its floral notes and crisp finish make it a great choice for a light and invigorating cocktail.
Mio Lab at the Park Hyatt Milan – Gresy
Located just next to the Galleria, the Mio Lab is a great spot for a shopping break away from the crowds of the Galleria and the Duomo. Marble tables fill the bar area, while golden lamps cast a warm light on the room. While my Gresy, a gin based cocktail was one of the best cocktails in Milan I’ve tasted this winter – it’s blended with raspberry, lemongrass, cranberry and lemon sugar was excellent, this bar stood out for 2 additional reasons.
One – really exceptional service. The waitstaff serves and refills tasty apertivo snacks, almost on the sly, so as not to interrupt conversations. And two, there’s an amazing DJ that spins, most nights during aperitivo time (i.e. starting around 7 or 7:30 pm). Once he started playing, we at Spritzience had to catch ourselves from standing up and waving our arms. It’s somewhat rare to encounter a DJ in Milan – prior to midnight. Instead we ordered another round of cocktails to relax and enjoy the vibe.
Camparino in Galleria-Campari Spritz
Camparino, with its rich history dating back to 1915, is practically a museum of mixology where classic meets contemporary in every glass. And as one of the World’s 50 Best Bars, it’s a must visit when in Milan.
The bar has 2 levels, on the lower level where you enter is Bar Il Passo. In the entrance is a magnificent 2 sided liberty era room. An art Nouveau bar made by an artisan cabinet maker sits below painted mosaics on the walls.
On the upper level, the modern Sala Spiritello, has a long wall with hundreds of red Campari bottles. They make a brilliant, bright statement to the namesake brand. On both levels, great aperitivo snacks are served with your cocktails by elegant waiters wearing white jackets and bowties. However, only the upstairs includes Peschiole- these look like over sized olives- but they are actually baby peaches. So unique, and the only place you’re looking to be able to try them.
The old world glamour of the Camparino and the amazing people watching makes this Spritzience’s favorite spot for a Spritz. It’s a bit like going straight to the source. We have this bar thanks to the Campari family, as a way to help share their eponymous Campari drinks.
Trendy Cocktail Bars in Milan: Other Neighborhoods
Lubar- Kir Royale
What better spot to sip on a Kir Royale – made with Champagne and blackcurrant berries than the garden room at Lubar. You’ll feel like you’re royalty. The restaurant has used sections of the Villa Reale (royal palace) to create this garden like oasis. Upon completion of the Villa Reale in 1796, Count Belgiojoso moved in to enjoy the lavish neoclassic interiors and gardens. But only for a few years. In 1804, Napoleon took over the residence where he famously hosted lavish dinners and balls.
Today, you can enjoy the gazebo areas with glass windows facing the palace courtyard, as you enjoy Sicilian inspired food and some of the best cocktails in Milan. A perfect spot in the winter, to dream of spring and summer days. Closest metro stop- Palestro.
Gloria – Poker Negroni
When you enter Gloria, you can’t help but be drawn in by the uniquely shaped Giallo Siena marble topped bar. From there your eyes move left to right to take in the whimsical decorations that make up the space, think golden metal palm trees and over the top chandeliers dripping with fabric tassles.
Italian dishes with Neopolitan specialties light up the tables, but the standout unique cocktail here is the Poker Negroni. You’ve probably had wine tasting flights before, but have you ever had a flight of Negronis? Enter the Poke Negroni- 4 half portions of Negroni variants. Il Conte is gin based, Il Barone is mezcal based, La Duchessa starts with whiskey and La Marchesa is the rum based variant.
Rumore- Jenga
Rumore showcases its creativity as a jazz lounge and cocktail bar with the “Jenga,” a unique blend of seedlip grove, pink grapefruit soda, and a hint of pepper. This cocktail is shaken to perfection, resulting in a smooth and balanced drink that’s both comforting and refreshing. It’s garnished with a flower, and served with typical Milanese aperitivo snacks: olives and chips.
One thing that makes Rumore special, is their jazz and other musical acts. To ensure you’re able to get seating in the music room, you’ll want to make an online reservation. You can also visit their website for more information on different musical acts.
To enter Rumore, you’ll want to pass through the stone gate of the Portrait Hotel Milano and take a left. Nearest metro stop: San Babila.
The History of Cocktails and Their Evolution in Italy’s Fashion Capital
Italy has a cocktail history that dances elegantly between tradition and innovation. The origins of mixology here can be traced back to the late 19th century, when the iconic Negroni made its debut in Florence, Italy. Legend has it that Count Negroni asked his bartender to strengthen his beloved Americano by adding gin instead of soda water—voilà! The first sip was a revelation.
Today, the Negroni remains a symbol of Italian aperitivo culture: simple yet sophisticated. As we sashay through the decades, we find that cocktails in Milan have evolved alongside fashion trends. In the roaring twenties, as flapper dresses swirled through jazz clubs, drinks became more elaborate with fresh ingredients and artistic garnishes. This era birthed classics like the Bellini—created at Harry’s Bar in Venice but loved across Italy—that blended peach purée with prosecco for a refreshing taste reminiscent of summer.
Fast forward to today; Milan is not just about traditional cocktails but also an exciting hub for modern mixology. Bartenders are now experimenting with local spirits like Amaro—a herbal liqueur often used in creative concoctions—and using unexpected ingredients such as balsamic vinegar or even truffle oil to elevate their drinks to new heights.
One cannot mention Italian cocktails without highlighting Spritz—the bubbly refreshment that has captured hearts worldwide since its humble beginnings in Veneto wine bars. Served over ice with a slice of orange and perhaps some green olives on the side, it’s become synonymous with laid-back afternoons spent people-watching along Milan’s chic streets.
Looking for Hot Chocolate Cocktails? Take A Day Trip to Turin
If you’ve ever dreamed of indulging in a chocolate lover’s paradise, then Turin is the place to be! Known as the birthplace of gianduja (that’s hazelnut chocolate for those who don’t speak fluent dessert), this Italian city is a sweet spot for anyone with a penchant for cocoa. And that means not only chocolates that you would find in a box, but chocolate drinks from the bicerin to hot chocolate and everything in-between. Go on a virtual tour with Spritzience as we uncover our favorite spots for hot chocolate cocktails in Turin.
Insider Tips for the Best Cocktail Experience in Milan
To fully enjoy your cocktail adventure in Milan, consider these insider tips for the best experience. First and foremost, timing is crucial. Many of the trendy bars that are well known for having the best cocktails in Milan are crowded, especially on weekends. Planning your visit during off-peak hours, such as early evening (7-8) or late night, can help you secure a comfortable spot without long waits.
Lastly, consider making reservations as many of Milan’s trendiest cocktail bars do accept reservations for cocktails. Unlike New York, you don’t need to buy a bottle and ensure a hefty bill to make a reservation. Many popular venues offer online booking options through their websites or reservation platforms. Otherwise, ask you hotel to call them, try calling them directly, check their website for online reservations or send them an e-mail at least a week in advance.
Cocktail Bar Etiquette in Milan
First and foremost, a friendly demeanor goes a long way in building rapport with the people serving you. It’s nice to say “per favore” (please) when making requests and “grazie” (thank you) when receiving your drinks. This simple courtesy reflects the Italian values of hospitality and warmth.
If you’re unsure about what to choose, to make sure you enjoy one of the best cocktails in Milan, don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations based on your preferences. Milanese bartenders are real mixologists, who appreciate when patrons engage with them. They can recommend favorite cocktails, and often can create personalized off-menu drinks.
Milanese Cocktail Journey
As you embark on your cocktail journey through Milan, you’ll discover that the city’s bars are not just places to enjoy drinks; they are vibrant spaces that encapsulate the essence of Italian culture and hospitality.
Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or a casual drinker, the trendiest bars in Milan promise to delight your senses with expertly crafted cocktails and inviting atmospheres. Milan’s cocktail culture is a testament to the city’s commitment to style, craftsmanship, and community. Do you have a favorite bar in Milan, or one that you’re looking to try- let us know in the comments section.
Planning A trip to Milan?
Start with my Milan Italy Travel Guide — it’s the overview page where I break down neighborhoods, logistics, and how to plan a trip that actually works.
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Looking to Get Out of the Winter Cold- Take a Weekend Trip to Lecce
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