The Northern Taste

When you ask a Milanese for any suggestions for a typical restaurant, they will always end up giving you a Japanese restaurant! To your surprise, Japanese cuisine is totally ingrained in one of the most appreciated in the economic capital of Italy, Milan! A little bit of history, this cuisine was introduced to the Italian culture in the 70’s. If you are a lover of raw fish and ramen these are some of our favorite places that you can satisfy your craving without any effort.

POPOROYA SUSHI BAR

An unmissable stop for every chirashi and sashimi lover; Poporoya is definitely the most authentic and closest you can get to Japan. Mentioned earlier, this place was opened in the 70s and it has become a sensational and special place in Milan. Shiro, owner and sushi chef, behind the counter every night for at least 40 years, prepares it with all kinds of fish mixed with rice. To enter you have to line up and order before sitting down at the table, you are then called to your turn finding the table already ready with the food in its place! Keep in mind, this place is very small, it’s like you are in Japan!

Hot green tea is offered and if you want to order again you have to do it quickly, otherwise the dinner will end prematurely. Not suitable for a romantic dinner but difficult to find better.

Don’t leave without trying the mixed chirashi or the salmon-only sakkedon

CASA RAMEN SUPER

Only not Japanese chef at the Tokyo ramen museum! The owner has opened two restaurants both in the vibrant neighborhood of Isola. The reason he opened two locations was because the first would not have been enough to hold all the crowds! The flavors are warm and enveloping, the ingredients are all delicious with a light Italian twist. When you’ve finished your ramen you’ll want to order a second and maybe even a third. The restaurant is modern and minimal, the staff very kind. The selection of wines is also excellent.

Go for the classic ramen and try the baos too

BENTOTECA

Probably one of the best restaurant in town, and I’m not referring just for the Japanese cuisine! The chef tokuyoshi after working many years at the famous “osteria francescana”, brought his personal view of kitchen in Milan, bringing his home country style using local products. You can have an aperitivo, a small dinner or an entire chef choise menu to share with your mate. Anything it’s great and perfectly prepare, the staff is great and wine selection has focused on natural vineyard. Sure no one will be disappointed eating here