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Ristorante Trussardi alla Scala, a favorite of designer Jamie Drake. Photo: Courtesy of Trussardi alla Scala
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7 Designers Share Their Go-To Spots in Milan

From cocktail bars to truffle haunts, this is where design insiders unwind during Salone del Mobile.

一年一次从aro设计师und the world flock to Milan—Italy’s unofficial capital of luxury and high design—to see the latest trends in furnishings and decor at Salone del Mobile. With a constant rotation of appointments and exhibition viewings for five days, a moment of respite—and a little bit of sightseeing—is required. Whether it’s dining on local delicacies or exploring the breathtaking architecture that dots the Milanese streets, interior designers are experts when it comes to kicking back stylishly in the charming metropolis. Here, we asked seven designers, ranging from seasoned veterans who have attended the Milanese furniture fair for decades to up-and-coming talents with fresh takes, where they like to wander after-hours.

Jamie Drake

"I love white truffles; one could say I'm a truffle hound. Of course, the best in the world are from Tuscany, but the most fabulous truffles I've ever savored were enjoyed atIl Ristorante Trussardi alla Scala(Piazza della Scala, 5; 39-02/8068-8201).位于二楼的著名的流行款式n luxury brand Trussardi's flagship store, the understated room has a commanding view of the historic La Scala opera house. The ethereal scent and taste of their truffles over homemade pasta haunts me to this day."

Foie Gras at Langosteria.

Photo: Courtesy of Langosteria

Sasha Bikoff

"AtLangosteria(Via Savona, 10; 39-02/5811-1649),I had the most amazing seafood with sliced foie gras layered in between langoustine tartare. It is a favorite for locals, and the Italians, of course, do everything perfectly from architecture to design to fashion—but especially the food."

Brett Beldock

"For me, no trip to Salone is complete without a visit toBar Basso(Via Plinio, 39; 39-02/2940-0580)for their world famous Negroni cocktail, which is about the size of a football—literally. I happened upon this little neighborhood gem many years ago while walking the Milanese streets in the rain. It is an unpretentious respite from the craziness of the fair with the most charming staff. It is so low-key in fact, that on my most recent visit, I glanced at the table next to me to find Miuccia Prada sitting there with three friends deep in conversation. No one paid her any attention; she might have been anybody and I think that's exactly why she was there. The place makes everyone feel at home and like one of the gang.”

The cupola of Santa Maria delle Grazie.

Photo: Courtesy of Santa Maria delle Grazia

Alexa Hampton

“Next week will be the first time I’ve been to Milan in years. The top two musts on my list are Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper atSanta Maria delle Grazie(Piazza di Santa Maria delle Grazie; 39-02/467-6111)andLa Scala(Via Filodrammatici, 2; 39-02/88791),where we will be taking our kids to hear music in one of the most magnificent places on this earth.”

Ken Fulk

Giacomo Bistrot(Via Pasquale Sottocorno, 6; 39-02/7602-2653)is a glorious old-world-style spot. The interiors and food are sublime. It's as if a Parisian grande dame had a mad love affair with a dashing London gentlemen—all smack dab in the Italian capital of fashion and design!”

A display at 10 Corso Como.

Photo: Courtesy of 10 Corso Como

Joshua Greene

“I never leave Milan without a trip to10 Corso Como(Corso Como, 10; 39-02/2900-2674).It’s the original concept shop and a must-visit to get a Milanese view on fashion, style, design, art, and culture.”

Wesley Moon

“The best place to get an Aperol Spritz and unwind in a beautiful courtyard setting isDolce & Gabbana Bar Martini(Corso Venezia, 15; 39-02/7601-1154),located on Corso Venezia. The chic people watching here is particularly good, but it’s also pretty fabulous atIl Salumaio di Montenapoleone(Via Santo Spirito, 10; 39-02/7600-1123),where incredible food is served in an even more incredible environment. It's inside an old palace so the architecture is beyond. I have to say, as much as I adore the original details on the inside, if the weather is nice, dining in the garden is magical.”