The Jist
When in doubt and in Milan, book Armani. That’s the advice I would give any would-be traveller with a layover or long weekend in Italy’s fashion capitol. Whether it be the hotel, the spa, the cafe, the bar or restaurant; you’re in very capable and stylish hands. I booked a table on a Wednesday in October (fresh off of their fall fashion week) for the six-course tasting menu and wine pairing. First stop was the Bamboo Bar, a swanky and soaring bar on the 7th floor with views of the duomo and all of Milan. A perfect place to either make a pit stop before heading off to another venue or the main event itself. It’s built for a grand night out or the business meeting with colleagues you want to impress.
The Food & Bev
There are three tasting menus to choose from at Armani/Ristorante. One is a traditional six course menu focusing on interesting classics, the second is a ‘presente’ menu with modern and forward-thinking dishes, and the third is a vegetarian option. I chose the “tradizione in evoluzione” and we were off to the races. The menu included burrata and smoked mackeral on toasted brioche, aspic with veal tongue, apple and trout roe, tripe, rabbit ravioli, grilled lobster, suckling calf, puffed potatoes, and a light apple tarte tatin to finish.
Each dish was artfully balanced and I thoroughly enjoyed the ‘evolution’ of the menu. It’s that feeling of when you’re sinking into a classic album. Each track has it’s moment and meaning, while stringing the story together. The wine pairings brought Rick Rubin-level production value to the whole project. Our sommelier was affable, bright and gave us great backstory on each of the pairings.
The Service
The service at Armani is warm, yet deliberate. The team has struck the right balance between being the main event or a disappearing act, not obstrusive yet always on point. I especially appreciated the tone set by captain Pasquale and the attention to story and detail given by our fantastic sommelier. This is what you’re paying for folks, it’s not just the food and the wine; it’s the experience. And again the ristorante truly delivered.
Restaurant Highlights
OUR KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM ARMANI / RISTORANTE MILAN
- WE LOVE: The Service – Pasquale and team took incredible care of my table. Just top notch.
- WE LOVE: The Creativity – The dishes were beautiful and had great balance to boot.
- WE LOVE: The Wine List – Almost all italian wines and each had a story. Great pairings and value for what you get!
- WE LOVE: The Decor – Absolutely stunning dualchromatic from top to bottom. Soaring ceilings, glowing walls and floors. A very decadent experience.
- NEEDS WORK: The Buzz – I figure I dined on an off night but it was very quiet in the dining room. By the time I left, however, the Bamboo Bar was hoppin’.
ARMANI RISTORANTE MILAN PAIRS WELL WITH…
Love Armani and want some more dining recs in Milan?
