Best Cafes in Milan Serving Specialty Coffee
Milan, the fashion capital of Italy, boasts a young specialty coffee scene that blends innovation and tradition. Passionate baristas go the extra mile to experiment with flavors and techniques, creating a true art form out of coffee. At the best cafes in Milan, serving specialty coffee is more than just preparing a beverage – it’s a way of life. Each cup of coffee tells a story, revealing the unique personality and vision of the cafe founders behind it. Find the best coffee Milan has to offer at one of my 7 picks.
In a city where espresso reigns supreme, Brent Jopson and his wife Giulia Gasperini dared to break the mold and bring the third wave coffee movement to Milan. When the couple moved from Vancouver to Milan, they were disappointed to find that specialty coffee was not yet a trend. Determined to bring their love of coffee to the people of Milan, they opened Cafe Orsonero. With a Scandi-inspired aesthetic and a focus on hospitality, the cafe offers an inviting space. The renowned Italian roaster Gardelli supplies the highest quality beans, while rotating guest roasters from Northern Europe are also on offer. The result is a menu of delicious coffee beverages that honor Italy’s rich coffee heritage while also celebrating the innovations of the Third Wave.
The creative minds behind this Milan gem have turned traditional coffee culture on its head. Instead of the typical Italian espresso bars found at every street corner, Nowhere boasts a menu of single-origin espresso and scrumptious avocado toast to please even the most refined tastes. Their approach is straightforward – they prioritize an effortlessly cool and accessible vibe over snobby sophistication. Recently, Nowhere has broadened its horizons by establishing a micro roastery, adding another layer to their coffee experience with fresh beans roasted right on site.
Step into a world where Brazilian coffee reigns supreme and Milanese charm meets Wes Anderson’s quirky aesthetic. Cafezal, the brainchild of Carlos Eduardo Bitencourt, is not your average specialty coffee roastery. In 2018, Carlos revolutionized Milan’s coffee scene by opening the city’s first roastery in the heart of the fashion capital. The coffee is exquisite, of course, with Carlos sourcing only the finest beans from Brazil. But what sets Cafezal apart is its offbeat decor. Think deep blue walls, pastel-colored stools, and a black marble countertop that’s straight out of an Italian espresso bar. Get ready for a coffee experience that’s both delicious and visually stunning.
The Cafezal Specialty Coffee Lab debuted on Viale Premuda in Milan during the three-day World of Coffee event in 2022. This unique coffee haven is devoted to sourcing, roasting, and selling the finest specialty coffee. Cafezal Coffee Hub’s mission is to demystify the world of specialty coffee, which is often seen as exclusive and niche in Italy. To accomplish this, the hub offers weekly coffee courses that cater to beginners as well as advanced sessions for baristas and restaurant owners. Spanning 500 square meters, this inviting space welcomes coffee lovers and professionals alike to explore the rich and fascinating realm of specialty coffee.
If you’re on the hunt for a cozy spot that expertly fuses great coffee and delicious food, you’ve got to check out Cafe O|NEST. Lea and Lorenza, the two brilliant minds behind the cafe, have created an irresistibly welcoming space where you won’t want to leave. They’re dedicated to offering only the finest coffee, even choosing to forgo single shots and sugar packets in order to provide a truly authentic taste. Skilled barista Lorenzo sources a wide range of European roasts, skillfully preparing delightful drinks with both state-of-the-art espresso machines and the V60 hand filter. While you’re visiting, make sure to explore the cafe’s book collection and unwind in their hidden garden oasis.
Photo credits: Margstudio
Imagine this: You’re walking down the picturesque streets of Milan and suddenly, a warm and inviting glow catches your eye. You’re drawn in by the cozy and stylish atmosphere of Cafe Hygge, a haven that embraces the Danish way of life with open arms. It’s like stepping into a dream where Scandinavian design meets a high level of comfort and conviviality. The menu is a treasure trove of delights, with a selection of single-origin coffees that will awaken your senses, and brunch dishes that transport your taste buds on an international adventure. And let’s not forget the communal table, where friendships are formed over delicious cups of coffee.
Il Cafetero in Milan is a place where coffee novices and connoisseurs alike come to indulge in a sensory experience. Federico Maggiulli, the master barista, expertly guides his guests through a journey of flavors and aromas, starting with his perfectly balanced blends. Like a conductor, he orchestrates the symphony of coffee, bringing out the best in each bean. Federico’s love for coffee was sparked during his time in London, and it continued to flourish under the guidance of the renowned Italian Latte Art Master, Chiara Bergonzi. Today, their partnership is reflected in the carefully crafted roasts from Sevengrams’ exclusive Lot Zero line. Whether you’re sipping an espresso or savoring a hand-filtered brew, Il Cafetero is where Italy meets the world of specialty coffee.